The Greek word hairetízō, represented by G140, means to make a choice or to choose. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its rarity highlights the significance of its single use in scripture.
The sole appearance of hairetízō G140 is found in Matthew 12:18. In this passage, God the Father declares His selection of His servant, stating, "Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased." This divine act of choosing is presented as a foundational part of the servant's identity and mission. The choice is directly linked to God being "well pleased" and His subsequent action of putting His spirit upon this chosen one to "shew judgment to the Gentiles" Matthew 12:18.
Several related Greek words in Matthew 12:18 provide a richer context for the act of choosing:
- G2400 idoú (behold, lo, see): Used as an imperative, this word calls for attention to be fixed upon the one who is being divinely chosen. It signals a significant declaration is being made Matthew 12:18.
- G3816 paîs (child, servant, son): This word identifies the one who is the subject of God's choice. It can mean a servant, but also carries the sense of a child or son, highlighting a special relationship as seen with David or Jesus (Luke 1:69, Acts 4:27).
- G2106 eudokéō (be well pleased, approve): This term is directly linked to the choice, expressing God's approval and pleasure in His chosen servant. This divine pleasure is also seen when the Father identifies His "beloved Son" (Matthew 17:5, Luke 3:22).
The theological weight of G140 is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
- Divine Election: The word highlights the concept of God's sovereign choice. The action originates entirely with God, who actively selects His servant for a specific role Matthew 12:18.
- Choice and Pleasure: The act of choosing is intrinsically linked with God's pleasure. The servant is not only chosen G140 but is also the one in whom God's soul is well pleased G2106, indicating that the choice is an expression of divine approval and delight Matthew 12:18.
- Purposeful Selection: God's choice is not an end in itself but is for a specific mission. The chosen servant will have God's Spirit put upon him and will "shew judgment to the Gentiles," demonstrating that divine selection is tied to redemptive purpose Matthew 12:18.
In summary, hairetízō G140 provides a precise term for a divine act of choosing. While used only once, its context in Matthew 12:18 is profound, defining the identity of God's servant. The word encapsulates God's sovereign selection, an action rooted in His good pleasure and aimed at fulfilling a specific redemptive purpose. It demonstrates how a single, specific word can be pivotal in understanding the relationship between God and His chosen servant.
TRV