### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1523 (eisdéchomai) is a compound word formed from the preposition εἰς (eis), meaning "into" or "to," and the verb δέχομαι (dechomai, `{{G1209}}`), meaning "to receive," "to accept," or "to welcome." The prefix εἰς intensifies or specifies the direction of the reception, indicating a movement *into* a particular state, relationship, or sphere. Thus, eisdéchomai signifies not merely a passive reception, but an active, intentional welcoming *into* one's presence, favor, or fellowship. The nuance of "taking into one's favor" is central to its meaning, implying a volitional act of embracing or admitting someone with approval and acceptance. It suggests a deeper level of engagement than a simple act of receiving.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G1523 (eisdéchomai) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence carries profound theological weight:
* **[[2 Corinthians 6:17]]**: "Therefore, 'Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.'" (ESV: "and I will welcome you.")
* This verse is part of Paul's impassioned appeal to the Corinthian believers to live lives of holiness and separation from the idolatrous and immoral practices of the surrounding culture. He quotes from various Old Testament passages (e.g., [[Isaiah 52:11]], [[Ezekiel 20:34]], [[Hosea 2:23]]) to underscore God's call for a distinct people.
* The promise, "I will receive you," uses eisdéchomai. Here, God Himself is the one who "receives" or "welcomes" His people. This reception is contingent upon their obedience to the call for separation and purity.
* The use of eisdéchomai highlights the nature of this divine welcome: it is not a mere toleration, but a gracious and active taking *into* His favor, *into* a covenant relationship. It implies God's acceptance and approval of those who respond to His call for holiness, offering them a place within His intimate fellowship as His sons and daughters (as further elaborated in [[2 Corinthians 6:18]]). The "into one's favor" aspect is crucial here, denoting a profound act of divine embrace.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **δέχομαι (dechomai, `{{G1209}}`)**: The base verb, meaning "to receive," "to accept," or "to welcome." Eisdéchomai adds the directional and relational nuance of "into" to this base meaning, emphasizing reception *into* a state of favor or intimacy.
* **λαμβάνω (lambano, `{{G2983}}`)**: A broader term for "to take," "to grasp," or "to receive." While dechomai often implies a willing reception, lambano can simply mean to acquire or take possession, without the same emphasis on welcome or favor.
* **προσλαμβάνω (proslambano, `{{G4355}}`)**: Meaning "to take to oneself," "to receive," or "to admit." This word also carries a connotation of welcoming someone into fellowship or association, similar to eisdéchomai but without the specific "into favor" emphasis of eis.
* **Concepts**: The word eisdéchomai is closely related to theological concepts such as divine acceptance, covenantal inclusion, adoption (as sons and daughters), fellowship with God, and the gracious nature of God's welcome to those who pursue holiness.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, G1523 (eisdéchomai) in [[2 Corinthians 6:17]] carries immense theological weight. It underscores the profound truth of God's gracious initiative in welcoming humanity into a relationship with Himself.
* **Divine Initiative and Grace**: The verb highlights God's active role in extending an invitation and offering acceptance. It is a divine act of grace, where the Creator offers to "receive" His creatures into a privileged relationship.
* **Conditional Welcome**: While gracious, this specific welcome described in [[2 Corinthians 6:17]] is presented as conditional upon human obedience and separation from unrighteousness. It is a call to holiness that precedes the promise of intimate divine fellowship. This does not negate salvation by grace through faith, but rather describes the path to a deeper, more intimate covenant relationship with God as His children, a relationship that demands a response of purity.
* **Intimate Relationship**: The "into one's favor" aspect of eisdéchomai emphasizes the depth of the relationship God offers. It's not just a general acceptance, but a welcoming into the very heart of His family, where believers are acknowledged as sons and daughters ([[2 Corinthians 6:18]]). This speaks to adoption and the profound privilege of being intimately known and loved by God.
* **Covenantal Faithfulness**: The context of [[2 Corinthians 6:17]] draws heavily on Old Testament covenant language, reinforcing God's faithfulness to His promises to be a God to His people and to dwell among them, provided they remain faithful to Him.
### Summary
The Greek word G1523 (eisdéchomai) signifies an active and intentional "receiving into one's favor" or "welcoming into intimate fellowship." Though it appears only once in the New Testament, in [[2 Corinthians 6:17]], its use is profoundly significant. It describes God's gracious promise to "receive" or "welcome" those who respond to His call for separation and holiness. This divine act of eisdéchomai underscores God's initiative in offering a deep, covenantal relationship, inviting believers into His favor and acknowledging them as His beloved children. It highlights both the conditional nature of this specific divine welcome and the immense privilege of being embraced by the Holy God.
TRV