### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diōgmós**, represented by `{{G1375}}`, is the primary term for **persecution**. It appears **10 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning "to pursue," `{{G1375}}` signifies more than general hardship; it denotes an active, targeted, and often relentless hostility directed at individuals or groups, specifically for their faith and adherence to "the word."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1375}}` is consistently portrayed as a test of faith. Jesus uses it in the parable of the sower to describe why some who receive the word fall away: when **persecution** arises, they are offended because they have no root in themselves ([[Matthew 13:21]], [[Mark 4:17]]). The early church experienced this directly after Stephen's death, when a "great **persecution**" against the church in Jerusalem caused believers to be scattered throughout Judaea and Samaria [[Acts 8:1]]. Paul lists **persecution** among the trials that cannot separate believers from the love of Christ [[Romans 8:35]] and recounts the specific **persecutions** he endured in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra, from which the Lord delivered him [[2 Timothy 3:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context and experience of persecution:
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure... tribulation, trouble): This term is frequently paired with `{{G1375}}`, highlighting the immense pressure and affliction that are characteristic of **persecution** ([[Romans 8:35]], [[2 Thessalonians 1:4]]).
* `{{G1892}}` **epegeírō** (to rouse upon... raise, stir up): This verb describes the action of inciting hostility. In Acts, the Jews **raised** persecution against Paul and Barnabas, showing how such opposition is often deliberately instigated [[Acts 13:50]].
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (to eject... expel): This word signifies a common outcome of persecution. After persecution was raised against them, Paul and Barnabas were **expelled** from the region [[Acts 13:50]].
* `{{G4730}}` **stenochōría** (narrowness of room... calamity... distress): This term is used to describe the state of anguish and calamity that accompanies **persecution**, where one feels cornered and without escape [[Romans 8:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1375}}` is significant, framing it as a core element of the Christian experience.
* **A Test of Discipleship:** The arrival of **persecution** for the word's sake serves as a crucial moment that reveals the true depth of a person's faith [[Matthew 13:21]].
* **An Expected Reality:** Far from being unusual, persecution is presented as a normal part of following Christ. Jesus promises his disciples they will receive blessings in this life, but "with **persecutions**" [[Mark 10:30]].
* **A Catalyst for the Gospel:** The first major **persecution** in Jerusalem did not crush the church but instead caused its message to spread as believers were scattered [[Acts 8:1]].
* **An Occasion for God's Deliverance:** Paul’s testimony of enduring multiple **persecutions** serves to highlight a greater truth: "out of them all the Lord delivered me" [[2 Timothy 3:11]], demonstrating God’s faithfulness in the midst of suffering.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1375}}` is not merely a word for trouble but a specific term for the active pursuit and oppression of believers because of their faith. It functions in scripture as a refiner's fire, testing the genuineness of belief and proving the power of God to deliver. Rather than an obstacle to be avoided, it is presented as an expected, and even purposeful, aspect of the Christian life that ultimately cannot separate God's people from His love.
TRV