The Greek word enárchomai, represented by G1728, means to commence on. It is formed from the words ἐν (en) and ἄρχομαι. A rare term, it appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible, yet its usage provides a foundational understanding of the beginning of the Christian life and God's work in the believer.
In its biblical occurrences, G1728 establishes the starting point of a spiritual work. In Philippians, Paul expresses his confidence that "he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" Philippians 1:6. Here, the word highlights God as the initiator of a divine process. In contrast, Paul uses it in a rhetorical question to the Galatians: "having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?" Galatians 3:3. This usage underscores the spiritual origin of their faith, contrasting it with a subsequent reliance on human effort.
Several related words help clarify the nature of the work that is commenced:
- G2005 epiteléō (to... finish, (make) (perfect), perform): This word appears in both primary verses as the counterpart to beginning. God will perform what He began Philippians 1:6, and it is foolish to think that what was begun in the Spirit could be made perfect by the flesh Galatians 3:3.
- G4151 pneûma (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This identifies the source and sphere of the new life. The believers' journey had begun in the Spirit Galatians 3:3, indicating a spiritual, not carnal, initiation.
- G4561 sárx (flesh... human nature (with its frailties... and passions)): This is presented as the opposite of the Spirit. Paul questions the wisdom of trying to be made perfect by the flesh after having begun in the Spirit Galatians 3:3, highlighting a core spiritual conflict.
The theological weight of G1728 is centered on the origin and continuation of the believer's salvation.
- Divine Initiation: The use of enárchomai in Philippians 1:6 establishes that the "good work" in a believer is something God himself has begun. This underscores that salvation and sanctification are initiated by divine power, not human will.
- Spiritual Origin vs. Carnal Effort: In Galatians 3:3, the act of having begun in the Spirit is the basis for Paul's argument against legalism. The spiritual life starts through the work of the Holy Spirit, and any attempt to complete it through the "flesh" is a departure from this foundational principle.
- Promise of Completion: The context in Philippians provides assurance. The one who has begun the work is also the one who will perform it until the end Philippians 1:6. The beginning guarantees the completion, giving confidence in God's faithfulness.
In summary, while G1728 is used infrequently, it marks a critical theological point: the commencement of God's work. It teaches that the Christian life is begun by God, in the Spirit, and stands in contrast to any effort of the flesh. Furthermore, this divine beginning carries with it the promise of its ultimate completion by the same God who initiated it.
TRV