### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **deûro**, represented by `{{G1204}}`, is an imperative term primarily meaning **come** or **hither**. It appears 9 times in 9 unique verses, functioning as a direct and urgent summons. While its base definition is "here" or "hither," it is almost always used as a command to move toward the speaker. It can also be used in a temporal sense to mean "hitherto," or up to a certain point in time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1204}}` is used in several distinct contexts of divine summons. Jesus uses it when calling the rich young ruler, commanding him to sell his possessions and then "**come**, follow me" ([[Luke 18:22]]; [[Matthew 19:21]]). This command is a pivotal call to discipleship. The word also carries the weight of miraculous authority, as when Jesus cries out, "Lazarus, **come** forth" [[John 11:43]]. In the Old Testament narrative, it is the word God uses to command Abraham to "**come** into the land" [[Acts 7:3]] and to send Moses on his mission to Egypt [[Acts 7:34]]. In Revelation, an angel repeatedly says, "**Come hither**," to invite John to witness divine judgment and glory ([[Revelation 17:1]]; [[Revelation 21:9]]). Its only temporal use is by Paul, who was prevented from visiting Rome "hitherto" [[Romans 1:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and consequence of the summons issued by `{{G1204}}`:
* `{{G190}}` **akolouthéō** (to be in the same way with, i.e. to accompany (specially, as a disciple):--follow, reach.): This word is frequently paired with `{{G1204}}` to describe the intended result of the summons. The call is not just to come, but to **follow** as a disciple [[Matthew 19:21]].
* `{{G1854}}` **éxō** (out(-side, of doors), literally or figuratively:--away, forth, (with-)out (of, -ward), strange.): This adverb specifies direction. Jesus commands Lazarus to "**come** `{{G1204}}` **forth** `{{G1854}}`," indicating a movement from inside the tomb to the outside [[John 11:43]].
* `{{G5217}}` **hypágō** (withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively:--depart, get hence, go (a-)way.): This often represents a prerequisite action. Jesus tells the rich young ruler to first "**go** thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast," and then to "**come**" and follow Him [[Mark 10:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1204}}` is significant, highlighting critical moments of transition and decision.
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The call to "**come**" issued by Jesus is an absolute summons that requires leaving something behind. For the rich young ruler, it meant abandoning his wealth to gain treasure in heaven and follow Christ [[Mark 10:21]].
* **Divine Commissioning:** The word is used by God to initiate a mission. It marks the moment Abraham is called to leave his country [[Acts 7:3]] and Moses is sent to deliver Israel, prefaced with the statement, "I am come down to deliver them. And now **come**, I will send thee" [[Acts 7:34]].
* **The Power over Death and an Invitation to See:** `{{G1204}}` demonstrates Christ's ultimate authority, as He commands the dead to live [[John 11:43]]. It also serves as a heavenly invitation for mortals to witness divine revelation, as when the angels summon John to behold "the judgment of the great whore" and "the bride, the Lamb's wife" ([[Revelation 17:1]]; [[Revelation 21:9]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1204}}` is far more than a simple invitation. It is a potent, imperative command that marks a turning point. Whether used by Jesus to call a disciple, by God to commission a prophet, or by an angel to unveil heavenly mysteries, **deûro** signifies a divine summons that demands a response. It encapsulates the authority of the speaker and the critical choice placed before the one being called.
TRV