The Greek word eisdéchomai, represented by G1523, means to take into one's favor:--receive. This term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant. It is composed of two parts, suggesting a welcome that brings an individual into a state of acceptance or favor.
The sole appearance of G1523 is in 2 Corinthians 6:17, where the Lord makes a conditional promise to believers. The verse states, "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you." The act of being received by God is presented here as the direct result of obedience to the commands to separate from the world and from impurity. This reception is not merely a passive acceptance but an active welcome into God's favor.
Several related words in the passage illuminate the context required for this divine reception:
- G873 aphorízō (to set off by boundary, i.e. (figuratively) limit, exclude, appoint, etc.:--divide, separate, sever): This is the central command linked to being received. Believers are called to be ye separate 2 Corinthians 6:17, a concept also seen when Paul describes himself as being separated unto the gospel of God Romans 1:1.
- G1831 exérchomai (to issue (literally or figuratively):--come (forth, out), depart (out of)): This is the initial action of separation. The promise is given to those who come out from among unbelievers 2 Corinthians 6:17, which mirrors how evil thoughts proceed out of the heart Matthew 15:19.
- G169 akáthartos (impure (ceremonially, morally (lewd) or specially, (demonic)):--foul, unclean): This defines what must be separated from. The condition for being received is to "touch not the unclean thing" 2 Corinthians 6:17. The same word is used to describe unclean spirits over which the disciples were given power Matthew 10:1.
The theological weight of G1523 is established by its conditional nature in its only biblical context. It highlights several key principles about the believer's relationship with God.
- Reception through Separation: Divine acceptance is explicitly promised as a response to the believer's active choice to "come out" G1831 and "be ye separate" G873. This establishes a clear pattern of obedience preceding fellowship.
- The Prerequisite of Holiness: The command to not touch the "unclean" G169 thing before being received by the Lord G2962 underscores that a commitment to purity is necessary for intimacy with a holy God.
- A Personal Divine Promise: The statement "and I will receive you" G2504 2 Corinthians 6:17 frames this reception not as an impersonal event, but as a direct and personal act of God, taking believers into His favor.
In summary, while eisdéchomai G1523 is a rare term, its single use carries immense theological importance. It defines God's reception as an intentional act of bringing someone into His favor. Its placement in scripture firmly links this divine welcome to the believer's deliberate separation from impurity, illustrating the foundational principle that a walk with God requires a departure from the world.
TRV