### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word δέχομαι (G1209), transliterated as *déchomai*, is a primary verb predominantly used in the middle voice. Its core meaning encompasses "to receive," "to accept," or "to take." The use of the middle voice is significant, indicating an action performed by the subject *for oneself* or *to oneself*, often implying a willing, intentional, or even welcoming disposition towards that which is received. This distinguishes *déchomai* from a mere passive reception or a neutral act of taking.
The semantic range of *déchomai* extends across various applications:
* **Literal Reception:** Such as receiving guests into one's home, accepting a gift, or taking food.
* **Figurative/Spiritual Reception:** This is where its theological depth becomes most apparent. It includes receiving a message, a teaching, the Kingdom of God, or even a person (as in welcoming and acknowledging their authority or identity).
* **Nuance of Acceptance:** Unlike simply acquiring something, *déchomai* often conveys an embrace, an assent, or a favorable disposition, suggesting an active engagement with what is being received.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
*Déchomai* appears frequently in the New Testament, illuminating various aspects of reception:
* **Receiving People/Messengers:** This usage highlights hospitality and recognition. For instance, Jesus instructs His disciples regarding those who would not "receive" them or their words, indicating a rejection of their message and, by extension, of Christ Himself ([[Matthew 10:14]]). Conversely, He states, "Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives Him who sent me" ([[Matthew 10:40]]), establishing a profound identification between the messenger and the sender. Similarly, receiving a child in Jesus' name is equated with receiving Him ([[Luke 9:48]]).
* **Receiving the Word/Message:** This is a crucial spiritual application. When people "receive the word of God," it implies an active, believing acceptance rather than mere hearing. The parable of the sower describes those who "receive the word with joy" ([[Luke 8:13]]), though some may not persevere. The Beroeans are commended because they "received the word with all readiness of mind" ([[Acts 17:11]]), demonstrating eagerness and a willingness to investigate.
* **Receiving the Kingdom of God:** Jesus instructs that one must "receive the kingdom of God like a child" ([[Mark 10:15]]), emphasizing the necessary humility, dependence, and openness required to enter into God's reign.
* **Receiving Provisions/Rewards:** In a more practical sense, it can refer to receiving sustenance ([[Luke 10:8]]) or a prophet's reward for welcoming a prophet ([[Matthew 10:41]]).
The distinction between *déchomai* and λαμβάνω (`{{G2983}}`), also translated "to receive" or "to take," is important. While there can be overlap, λαμβάνω often denotes a more neutral act of taking possession or acquiring, whereas *déchomai* typically conveys an intentional, welcoming, or assenting reception. One might *take* a gift (λαμβάνω), but one *receives* it with gratitude and acceptance (δέχομαι).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share semantic space with *déchomai*, often adding specific nuances:
* λαμβάνω (`{{G2983}}`): The most common word for "to take" or "to receive," often implying acquisition or grasping. As noted, *déchomai* tends to emphasize the welcoming or intentional aspect.
* προσλαμβάνω (`{{G4355}}`): "To take to oneself," "to receive kindly," or "to welcome." This word shares the welcoming nuance of *déchomai* but often with an added sense of inviting or taking someone into one's company.
* ὑποδέχομαι (`{{G5264}}`): "To receive under one's roof," "to entertain," or "to welcome hospitably." This term specifically highlights the act of offering hospitality.
* ἀποδέχομαι (`{{G588}}`): "To receive favorably," "to accept with approval." This word emphasizes a positive and approving reception.
* κομίζω (`{{G2865}}`): "To receive back" or "to get back," often implying something earned or due, such as a reward or recompense.
The concept of hospitality (φιλοξενία) is closely related to *déchomai*, as the act of receiving guests was a vital cultural and religious practice in the ancient world. Furthermore, the spiritual act of "receiving" the word or the Kingdom is intrinsically linked to the concepts of faith (πίστις) and belief, as it requires an internal assent and commitment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *déchomai* is profound, touching upon core aspects of salvation and discipleship:
* **Human Response to Divine Initiative:** *Déchomai* underscores the crucial human response to God's self-revelation and gracious offer of salvation. God initiates, but humanity must actively and willingly "receive" His truth, His Son, and His Kingdom. This reception is not passive but a volitional act of acceptance.
* **The Nature of Saving Faith:** To "receive the word" or "receive the kingdom" is a fundamental expression of saving faith. It implies an open heart, a humble willingness to be taught, and a submission to God's authority and reign. The readiness with which the Beroeans "received the word" ([[Acts 17:11]]) serves as an exemplar of such receptive faith.
* **Identification with Christ:** The principle that "whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives Him who sent me" ([[Matthew 10:40]]) establishes a powerful spiritual solidarity. To welcome Christ's messengers and their message is to welcome Christ Himself, and thereby to welcome God the Father. Conversely, to reject them is to reject God.
* **Humility and Childlikeness:** The injunction to "receive the kingdom of God like a child" ([[Mark 10:15]]) highlights the essential disposition for entry into God's reign. It calls for humility, dependence, trust, and a lack of self-sufficiency—qualities characteristic of children.
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The contexts where individuals or communities refuse to "receive" Jesus or His disciples often carry a warning of judgment or a turning away, emphasizing the serious implications of accepting or rejecting the divine message.
### Summary
The Greek word δέχομαι (G1209) signifies "to receive," "to accept," or "to take," carrying a strong connotation of willing, intentional, and often welcoming reception due to its middle voice. It stands apart from a mere neutral act of acquiring, emphasizing an active, favorable disposition towards what is received. In the New Testament, *déchomai* is used for literal acts of hospitality, such as receiving guests, but more significantly for spiritual acts, such as receiving the word of God, the Kingdom of God, or Christ's messengers. Theologically, it underscores the vital human response to divine initiative, representing the essence of a humble and believing faith that actively embraces God's truth and presence. This act of "receiving" is foundational to discipleship, establishing a profound identification with Christ and His mission.
TRV