The Greek word dióper, represented by G1355, is a conclusive term defined as "on which very account" or "wherefore." It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. It functions as a strong inferential particle, introducing a conclusion or a necessary course of action that follows logically from a preceding argument.
All occurrences of G1355 are found in 1 Corinthians, where it is used to draw a practical conclusion from a teaching. In one context, after a warning about idolatry, the word introduces the direct command, "Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry" 1 Corinthians 10:14. It is also used to resolve a matter of Christian liberty concerning food, stating, "Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh" 1 Corinthians 8:13. Finally, it provides instruction for orderly worship, concluding that "Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret" 1 Corinthians 14:13.
Several related words are found in the immediate context of G1355, clarifying the actions it commands:
- G5343 pheúgō (to run away... shun): This word is the direct command that follows G1355 in the exhortation to escape idolatry 1 Corinthians 10:14.
- G4624 skandalízō (to entrap... trip up... entice to sin): This describes the potential harm to a brother that leads to the conclusion introduced by G1355, prompting a change in behavior 1 Corinthians 8:13.
- G1495 eidōlolatreía (image-worship... idolatry): This is the specific sin from which believers are commanded to flee, a conclusion emphasized by the use of G1355 1 Corinthians 10:14.
- G1329 diermēneúō (to explain thoroughly... to translate): This is the action required for the gift of tongues to be edifying, a conclusion drawn using G1355 1 Corinthians 14:13.
The significance of G1355 lies in its function as a bridge from theological principle to practical application.
- Ethical Conclusion: The word signals a necessary ethical response. Because of the dangers of idolatry, the logical action is to flee from it 1 Corinthians 10:14.
- Prioritizing Love: It is used to demonstrate how love for a fellow believer should result in a concrete decision, such as abstaining from something permissible if it causes another to offend 1 Corinthians 8:13.
- Purpose of Gifts: In the context of spiritual gifts, G1355 underlines the purpose of edification. Therefore, the one who speaks in a tongue must also seek to interpret so the church can understand 1 Corinthians 14:13.
In summary, G1355 is more than a simple transition; it is a powerful marker of consequence. It emphasizes that a given truth or argument has an unavoidable practical outworking. Each of its uses in scripture calls for a decisive action—fleeing idolatry, protecting a brother, or ensuring church edification—demonstrating the inseparable link between what a believer understands and how a believer must act.
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