The Greek word exapostéllō, represented by G1821, is a compound word derived from ἐκ and ἀποστέλλω. Its base definition is to send away forth, meaning to despatch on a mission or to peremptorily dismiss. It appears 13 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible, signifying a deliberate and purposeful act of sending.
In Scripture, G1821 is used for acts of the highest divine importance. God sent forth His Son at the fullness of time Galatians 4:4 and also hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into the hearts of believers Galatians 4:6. The word also describes the commissioning of individuals for ministry, such as when the church sent forth Barnabas to Antioch Acts 11:22 or when the brethren sent Paul forth to Tarsus Acts 9:30. In a different sense, it describes dismissal, as when the rich are sent empty away Luke 1:53 or when servants in a parable are beaten and sent away empty (Luke 20:10, Luke 20:11).
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning of sending and movement:
- G649 apostéllō (set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively): As the root word, it establishes the foundational idea of being sent on a mission. It is used when describing how God sent his Son into the world not to condemn it, but to save it John 3:17.
- G3992 pémpō (to dispatch...especially on a temporary errand): This term emphasizes the dispatch from the point of departure. Jesus uses this word when explaining that the Father will send the Comforter in His name John 14:26.
- G4198 poreúomai (to traverse, i.e. travel): This word describes the act of going or traveling, often as the result of being sent. It is used in the command for the disciples to go and teach all nations Matthew 28:19.
The theological weight of G1821 is significant, highlighting key doctrines of Christian faith.
- Sovereign Mission: The word is used to describe God's direct and purposeful intervention in history. He sent forth his Son to redeem those under the law Galatians 4:4 and sent forth the Spirit as a mark of adoption Galatians 4:6.
- Apostolic Commission: It defines the active sending of messengers by the church. The brethren sent away Paul to continue his ministry elsewhere Acts 17:14, and Paul himself was told by the Lord, "I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles" Acts 22:21.
- Divine Deliverance and Judgment: The term is used to show God's power to act. The Lord hath sent his angel to deliver Peter from prison Acts 12:11, while in contrast, the word also expresses judgment, as the rich are sent empty away Luke 1:53.
In summary, G1821 is more than a generic term for sending. It is a powerful verb indicating a deliberate dispatch with a specific purpose, whether for redemption, mission, or dismissal. It captures the authority of the sender, from God Himself sending His Son and Spirit, to the early church commissioning its apostles for the work of the gospel.
TRV