ἐξεγείρω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word exegeírō, represented by G1825, means to rouse fully or raise up. It appears 4 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from ἐκ (from) and ἐγείρω (to rouse), it carries the intensive meaning of a complete or purposeful raising, used figuratively to describe resuscitation from death or being brought into a position of prominence for a divine purpose.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, G1825 is used in two significant contexts to illustrate God's sovereign power. In Romans, it is used to quote what scripture says to Pharaoh, stating that God raised him up for the specific purpose of demonstrating God's power and so that His name would be declared throughout all the earth Romans 9:17. In 1 Corinthians, the word is used to affirm the future resurrection of believers, promising that God will also raise up believers by His own power, just as He raised the Lord 1 Corinthians 6:14.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the meaning and purpose behind the act of "raising up":

• G1453 egeírō (to waken, i.e. rouse): As the root of exegeírō, this word often refers to resurrection. In 1 Corinthians 6:14, it is used for God having "raised up the Lord," setting the pattern for how believers will also be raised.
• G1411 dýnamis (force; specially, miraculous power): This word is explicitly linked to both uses of G1825. Pharaoh was raised up to show God's power Romans 9:17, and believers will be raised by God's power 1 Corinthians 6:14.
• G1229 diangéllō (to herald thoroughly): This highlights the outcome of God's action in Romans 9:17. God raised up Pharaoh so that His name might be declared across the world.
• G1124 graphḗ (a document, i.e. holy Writ): The context for raising Pharaoh is established by what the scripture says, grounding the event in God's revealed will Romans 9:17.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G1825 is concentrated on God's intentional exercise of His might.

• Sovereign Purpose: The word's use regarding Pharaoh establishes that God sovereignly places and moves historical figures to accomplish His divine plan and display His glory to the world Romans 9:17.
• Resurrection Hope: It extends the promise of resurrection directly to believers. The action of being "raised up" is not limited to Christ but is the future hope for all who are in Him, accomplished by the same divine might 1 Corinthians 6:14.
• Demonstration of Power: In both its applications, G1825 is intrinsically connected to a display of God's power G1411. It is an act that originates from God's strength and is intended to make that strength known.

Summary

In summary, while appearing rarely, G1825 conveys the profound concept of being "roused fully" by divine initiative. It illustrates God's sovereignty in orchestrating events to reveal His power and declare His name. Furthermore, it serves as a powerful promise of the believer's future resurrection, assuring us that the same power that raised the Lord will also raise us up.