The Greek word exischýō, represented by G1840, means to have full strength or to be entirely competent. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, which emphasizes its specific and significant meaning. Its etymology, from ἐκ (ek) and ἰσχύω (ischýō), suggests a strength that comes forth or is made fully manifest.
The single biblical occurrence of G1840 is in Ephesians 3:18, where it is used in a prayer for believers. The Apostle Paul prays that they may be able to comprehend the full dimensions of God's purpose. The use of this word implies that grasping such a profound truth is not possible through ordinary human capacity but requires a special, divinely-imparted strength. This competency is sought "with all saints," indicating a collective enablement.
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the purpose of this divine strength:
- G2638 katalambánō: to take eagerly, i.e. seize, possess... or comprehend. This is the goal for which strength is needed; to comprehend the divine mystery Ephesians 3:18. It is also used to describe how the darkness could not comprehend the light John 1:5.
- G40 hágios: sacred... holy (one, thing), saint. The ability to comprehend is a shared strength among all the saints Ephesians 3:18, who are called to be a holy nation 1 Peter 2:9.
- G899 báthos: profundity... depth. This is one of the dimensions believers are enabled to grasp. The term points to profound mystery, such as when the Spirit searches "the deep things of God" 1 Corinthians 2:10.
- G4114, G3372, G5311: plátos, mēkos, and hýpsos refer to the breadth, length, and height. Together with depth, these terms illustrate the immeasurable, all-encompassing scope of what is to be comprehended Ephesians 3:18.
The theological weight of G1840 is centered on the concept of divine enablement for spiritual understanding.
- Supernatural Competency: The word establishes that understanding the deep things of God is beyond natural human ability. It requires being made "entirely competent" through a strength that originates from God.
- Corporate Revelation: This strength is not granted for individualistic insight alone, but is something experienced "with all saints" Ephesians 3:18. Comprehension of God's mystery is a corporate reality for the church.
- Immeasurable Scope: The purpose of this strength is to grasp something of infinite dimensions: the breadth, length, depth, and height. This points to the vastness of God's love and wisdom, which can only be approached through His power.
In summary, G1840 is a potent and specific term that, despite its single use, is crucial for understanding the biblical view of spiritual enlightenment. It frames the comprehension of divine truth not as an intellectual achievement but as a gift of full strength from God. This divinely-given ability allows believers, as a unified body of saints, to begin to grasp the limitless and profound nature of God's redemptive plan.
TRV