The Greek word dōreá, represented by G1431, is defined as a gratuity or gift. It appears 11 times in 11 unique verses in the Bible. The term consistently refers to a gift that is freely given, often of divine origin, and cannot be earned or purchased.
In scripture, G1431 is used to describe God's provisions to humanity. On the day of Pentecost, Peter promises that those who repent and are baptized will receive the gift of the Holy Ghost Acts 2:38. Jesus refers to this concept when speaking to the woman at the well, calling the "living water" he offers the gift of God John 4:10. This gift is also linked to salvation and position in Christ, as believers receive the "abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness" Romans 5:17. Its value is highlighted when Peter rebukes Simon for thinking the gift of God could be purchased with money Acts 8:20. Paul describes it as an "unspeakable gift" for which he gives thanks to God 2 Corinthians 9:15.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of G1431:
- G1325 dídōmi (to give): This verb describes the action of bestowing a gift. God's love for the world is shown in that he gave his only begotten Son John 3:16. The act of giving is the source of the gift G1431.
- G2983 lambánō (to take): As the counterpart to giving, this word means to receive. Believers are told they "shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" Acts 2:38, highlighting the reception of God's provision.
- G5486 chárisma (a (divine) gratuity, i.e. deliverance... (free) gift): This term is closely related to dōreá. In Romans 5:15, a distinction is made between "the free gift" G5486 and "the gift G1431 by grace." It is also used to describe eternal life as "the gift of God" Romans 6:23.
- G5485 cháris (graciousness... especially the divine influence upon the heart... grace): This is the basis for the gift. The gift G1431 is given "by grace" Romans 5:15 and is itself called "the gift of the grace of God" Ephesians 3:7.
The theological weight of G1431 is significant, defining the nature of God's redemptive work.
- Divine Origin: The gift consistently originates from God the Father or Christ. It is called "the gift of God" (John 4:10, Acts 8:20), "the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38, Acts 10:45), and "the gift of Christ" Ephesians 4:7.
- Unmerited Nature: The term emphasizes that God's provisions are not earned. The attempt to purchase the gift of God is strongly condemned Acts 8:20. It is a gratuity, given freely out of God's grace.
- Key Components of Salvation: The gift is identified with core elements of salvation, including the Holy Spirit Acts 2:38, righteousness Romans 5:17, and grace itself Ephesians 3:7. It is the heavenly gift that the enlightened have tasted Hebrews 6:4.
In summary, G1431 defines more than a simple present; it signifies a divine gratuity flowing from the grace of God. It represents foundational elements of Christian faith—the Holy Spirit, righteousness, and eternal life—which are bestowed freely and cannot be purchased. This word powerfully illustrates the concept of salvation as a free and "unspeakable gift" from God to humanity.
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