The Greek word epanérchomai, represented by G1880, means to return or come again. It is formed from the words ἐπί and ἀνέρχομαι. This specific term is rare, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting its use in specific, purposeful contexts.
The word is used to describe a return that triggers a significant event. In one instance, a nobleman who went away to receive a kingdom G932 returned G1880 and immediately commanded his servants to be called to him to give an account of what they had gained Luke 19:15. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the Samaritan promises the host that when he does come again G1880, he will repay G591 any additional costs, showing a return to fulfill a commitment Luke 10:35.
Several related words clarify the context of this return:
- G1831 exérchomai (to issue, depart): This word describes the act of leaving that precedes a return. The Samaritan uses it to describe when he departed G1831 before promising to come again Luke 10:35.
- G932 basileía (kingdom): The nobleman's return is contingent upon him having received the kingdom G932, which gives him the authority to demand an accounting from his servants Luke 19:15.
- G1281 diapragmateúomai (to earn in business): This term defines the specific action the nobleman's servants were expected to perform, and for which they are held accountable upon his return Luke 19:15.
- G591 apodídōmi (to give away, i.e. up, over, back): This word describes the action the Samaritan promises to take upon his return, which is to repay the host and settle his account Luke 10:35.
The theological weight of G1880 is tied to the purpose of the return.
- Return for Accountability: The return of the nobleman is for the express purpose of judgment. He comes back with new authority to know G1097 how his servants G1401 have managed what he had given G1325 them Luke 19:15.
- Fulfillment of Promise: In the parable of the Samaritan, the return is an act of faithfulness. The promise to come again G1880 is linked directly to the promise to repay G591 the host, underscoring a theme of personal commitment and restoration Luke 10:35.
- Establishment of Authority: The return described in Luke is not a simple arrival, but the beginning of a new order. After having received the kingdom G932, the nobleman's return initiates his reign and the settling of his affairs Luke 19:15.
In summary, G1880 signifies more than a simple arrival; it describes a purposeful return that brings about a resolution. Though used only twice, its context in both parables points to a homecoming that initiates accountability, judgment, and the fulfillment of promises. The act of returning is intrinsically linked to the authority and responsibility of the one who comes back.
TRV