### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word `{{G1789}}` (ἐντρέφω) is a compound verb derived from the preposition ἐν (en), meaning "in" or "within," and the verb τρέφω (trephō) `{{G5142}}`, which signifies "to nourish," "to feed," or "to bring up." Literally, the compound suggests "to nourish within" or "to be fed in." However, its primary New Testament usage, as indicated by its base definition, is figurative: "to educate," "to train," or "to be brought up in" a particular body of knowledge or discipline. This implies a sustained process of instruction, assimilation, and internal formation, going beyond mere physical sustenance to encompass intellectual and spiritual development. It speaks to a deep, internal cultivation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G1789}}` (ἐντρέφω) appears uniquely in the New Testament, found in [[1 Timothy 4:6]]. In this passage, Paul instructs Timothy regarding his duties as a minister of the gospel: "If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being nourished in the words of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed."
The context of [[1 Timothy 4:6]] is crucial. Paul is warning Timothy about false teachers and urging him to uphold sound doctrine. Timothy's effectiveness as a "good servant of Christ Jesus" is directly linked to his being "nourished in" (ἐντρεφόμενος) the "words of the faith" (λόγοις τῆς πίστεως) and the "good teaching" (καλῆς διδασκαλίας). This nourishment is not passive; it implies an active engagement and internalization of truth. Timothy is to be continually sustained and shaped by the foundational truths of the Christian faith and the sound doctrine he has received. This continuous process of being "nourished up in" the faith equips him to teach others and to discern and counter erroneous teachings. It underscores the vital importance of consistent, deep engagement with divine revelation for spiritual leadership and personal integrity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The underlying verb τρέφω (trephō) `{{G5142}}` itself carries the meaning of physical nourishment and upbringing, as seen in passages like [[Matthew 6:26]] (birds are fed) or [[Luke 4:16]] (Jesus was brought up in Nazareth). The addition of ἐν (en) shifts the focus from general feeding to a more specific, internal, and formative process.
Other Greek words that share conceptual overlap with `{{G1789}}` in the realm of instruction and spiritual formation include:
* παιδεύω (paideuō) `{{G3811}}`: "to train," "to educate," "to discipline," often with an emphasis on correction or moral upbringing ([[Hebrews 12:7]]).
* διδάσκω (didaskō) `{{G1321}}`: "to teach," referring to the act of imparting knowledge or instruction ([[Matthew 4:23]]).
* κατηχέω (katēcheō) `{{G2727}}`: "to instruct orally," "to catechize," implying a systematic form of instruction ([[Luke 1:4]]).
These related terms collectively highlight the New Testament's emphasis on comprehensive intellectual, moral, and spiritual development through sound teaching and ongoing engagement with God's truth. `{{G1789}}` specifically emphasizes the internalizing, sustaining aspect of this process, akin to a spiritual diet.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of `{{G1789}}` in [[1 Timothy 4:6]] carries profound theological weight, particularly for Christian leadership and discipleship. It reveals that effective service to Christ is contingent upon being deeply and continuously "nourished" by the words of faith and good teaching. This is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of spiritual sustenance.
The "nourishment" implied by `{{G1789}}` speaks to the vital role of sound doctrine in shaping the believer's character, worldview, and ministry. Just as physical food sustains the body, the "words of the faith" and "good teaching" sustain the spiritual life, providing strength, clarity, and resilience against error. For Timothy, this meant being firmly grounded in apostolic truth, which would enable him to effectively counter the "myths and endless genealogies" and "false knowledge" that threatened the church (cf. [[1 Timothy 1:4]], [[1 Timothy 6:20]]).
Theologically, this word underscores the intrinsic connection between spiritual health and adherence to truth. It implies that true spiritual growth is not merely experiential but is deeply rooted in the assimilation of revealed truth. It calls believers, and especially leaders, to a lifelong commitment to being taught, learning, and internalizing the unadulterated gospel.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G1789}}` (ἐντρέφω) signifies "to nourish up in" or "to educate/train," specifically implying a deep, internal, and continuous process of spiritual formation. Though appearing only once in the New Testament, its usage in [[1 Timothy 4:6]] is highly significant. It reveals that a "good servant of Christ Jesus" is one who is constantly "nourished in the words of the faith and of the good teaching." This highlights the critical importance of sustained engagement with sound doctrine for spiritual vitality, effective ministry, and the ability to discern and resist false teachings. It underscores that spiritual growth is not merely experiential but is profoundly shaped by the ongoing assimilation of divine truth.
TRV