from ἐν and ἔργον; active, operative:--effectual, powerful.
Transliteration:energḗs
Pronunciation:en-er-gace'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective G1756 (energḗs) is derived from the preposition ἐν (en, "in" or "within") and the noun ἔργον (ergon, "work" or "deed"). This etymological root reveals its core meaning: that which possesses an inherent, internal power to produce an effect or result. It signifies an active, operative, or effective quality, contrasting sharply with anything inert, passive, or merely potential. The word describes something that is not just capable of working, but is actively at work, bringing about a tangible outcome. Its semantic range thus covers concepts like "effectual," "powerful," "active," "operative," and "efficacious," emphasizing the actualization of power rather than its mere existence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G1756 (energḗs) appears three times in the New Testament, each instance illuminating its nuanced meaning:
* **[[1 Corinthians 16:9]]**: "for a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries." Here, energḗs describes the "work" (ἔργον) itself, implying an opportunity for ministry that is not just available, but one that is productive and yields results. Paul perceives a door that leads to *active* and *fruitful* service, despite opposition. The emphasis is on the practical efficacy of the ministry opportunity.
* **[[Philemon 1:6]]**: "that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus." In this context, energḗs modifies "the sharing of your faith" (ἡ κοινωνία τῆς πίστεώς σου). It speaks of a faith that is not dormant or theoretical, but one that is active and operative, producing tangible expressions of good. Philemon's faith is expected to be dynamic, demonstrating its reality through concrete actions and recognition of Christ's work within him.
* **[[Hebrews 4:12]]**: "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." This is perhaps the most profound usage. The "word of God" (ὁ λόγος τοῦ θεοῦ) is described as both "living" (ζῶν) and "active" (energḗs). It is not a static text but a dynamic, potent force that performs a specific work: it penetrates, divides, and discerns. Its activity is inherent, powerful, and capable of reaching the deepest parts of human existence, exposing inner motives and thoughts.
Across these passages, G1756 consistently points to something that possesses inherent power and is actively engaged in producing a specific, observable effect.
### Related Words & Concepts
G1756 (energḗs) belongs to a significant word family in the Greek New Testament, all stemming from ἔργον (ergon, `{{G2041}}`, "work" or "deed"). Key cognates include:
* **ἐνέργεια (energeia, `{{G1753}}`):** The noun form, often translated as "working," "operation," or "power." It denotes the actual operation or exertion of power, the dynamic outworking of an inherent force. This term is frequently used to describe divine power at work (e.g., [[Ephesians 1:19]]; [[Colossians 1:29]]).
* **ἐνεργέω (energeō, `{{G1754}}`):** The verb form, meaning "to work," "to be effective," "to operate," "to accomplish." It describes the act of being operative or effective, often with a divine subject (e.g., [[Philippians 2:13]] where God is said to "work" in believers).
While G1756 (energḗs) emphasizes the *quality* of being active and effective, energeia emphasizes the *power* or *operation* itself, and energeō the *act* of working. This family of words collectively highlights the dynamic, active nature of God, His Word, and the faith He grants. They are distinct from δύναμις (dynamis, `{{G1411}}`), which often refers to potential power or ability, whereas the energ- words emphasize power *in action* and *producing results*.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G1756 (energḗs) is profound, particularly in its application to God, His Word, and the Christian life:
1. **Divine Efficacy:** The use of energḗs in [[Hebrews 4:12]] underscores the absolute efficacy and dynamic nature of God's Word. It is not merely information or ancient text, but a living, active force that accomplishes God's purposes. This concept reinforces the sovereignty and power of God, whose Word is inherently effective in revealing truth, judging hearts, and transforming lives.
2. **Active Faith and Ministry:** The passages in [[1 Corinthians 16:9]] and [[Philemon 1:6]] reveal that Christian faith and ministry are not passive or inert. True faith is energḗs – it is active, productive, and manifests itself in tangible ways, leading to good works and effective service. This calls believers to a dynamic, engaged discipleship where their faith is demonstrated through their actions and impact.
3. **God's Active Presence:** The broader energ- word group often describes God's active working in the world and in believers. G1756 contributes to this theological truth by highlighting that God's power is not static but constantly operative, bringing about His will and purposes. This provides reassurance and a basis for trust in God's ongoing involvement in human affairs.
### Summary
G1756 (energḗs) is a potent Greek adjective signifying that which is "active," "operative," or "effectual." Rooted in the concept of "in-working," it describes an inherent power that actively produces a result. Its three New Testament occurrences powerfully illustrate its meaning: an "effective" door for ministry in [[1 Corinthians 16:9]], the "effective" sharing of faith in [[Philemon 1:6]], and most significantly, the "living and active" nature of God's Word in [[Hebrews 4:12]]. The word emphasizes the dynamic, result-oriented aspect of power, distinguishing it from mere potential. Theologically, energḗs underscores the active efficacy of God's Word, the transformative power of genuine faith, and the ongoing, operative presence of God in the world and in the lives of His people. It calls believers to a faith that is not passive, but actively engaged and fruitful.
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