### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb epekteínomai (`{{G1901}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition epi (ἐπί), meaning "upon," "to," or "towards," and the verb ekteínō (ἐκτείνω), meaning "to stretch out" or "extend." The root verb ekteínō itself derives from ek (ἐκ), "out of," and teinō (τείνω), "to stretch." The middle voice of epekteínomai indicates that the subject performs the action upon itself or for its own benefit.
Therefore, epekteínomai conveys the sense of "to stretch oneself forward," "to strain forward," or "to reach out intently towards something." It implies a vigorous, purposeful, and directed effort, not a passive extension. The nuance is one of intense concentration and exertion, like an athlete lunging for a finish line.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Epekteínomai (`{{G1901}}`) is a *hapax legomenon* in the New Testament, appearing only once in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians.
* **[[Philippians 3:13]]**: "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead..." (ESV)
* In this pivotal verse, Paul describes his spiritual ambition and the singular focus of his life. The phrase "straining forward" (ἐπεκτείνομαι) is strategically placed to contrast with "forgetting what lies behind." Paul is not content to rest on past accomplishments or be hindered by past failures. Instead, he actively, with intense effort and singular purpose, directs his entire being towards what is "ahead"—namely, the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus ([[Philippians 3:14]]).
* The image conveyed is one of a runner in a race, leaning forward, stretching every muscle, and exerting maximum effort to reach the finish line. This is not a casual stroll but a determined, all-consuming drive. It illustrates Paul's relentless pursuit of Christ and the fullness of resurrection life.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **ekteínō (`{{G1614}}`)**: The base verb, meaning "to stretch out." Often used for stretching out a hand, as in Jesus stretching out His hand to heal the leper ([[Matthew 8:3]]) or to calm the storm ([[Matthew 14:31]]). While ekteínō can be a simple physical action, epekteínomai adds the intensive "epi" and the middle voice to denote a more personal, directed, and strenuous self-extension.
* **epi (`{{G1909}}`)**: The preposition that intensifies the action, indicating movement towards, upon, or in addition to.
* **diōkō (`{{G1377}}`)**: "To pursue, press on." This verb appears in the very next verse ([[Philippians 3:14]]) where Paul states, "I press on toward the goal." Epekteínomai describes the *posture* and *action* of straining forward, while diōkō describes the *ongoing pursuit* itself. They are complementary verbs that paint a picture of relentless spiritual effort.
* **kataleipō (`{{G2641}}`)**: "To leave behind, forsake." This is the conceptual opposite of epekteínomai in [[Philippians 3:13]]. Paul deliberately "leaves behind" or "forgets" the past to "strain forward" to the future.
* **skopos (`{{G4649}}`)**: "Goal, mark." The object towards which one strains and presses on. In Paul's case, the "goal" is the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of epekteínomai (`{{G1901}}`) in [[Philippians 3:13]] carries profound theological weight:
* **Dynamic Sanctification:** The verb powerfully illustrates that the Christian life, particularly the process of sanctification, is not a passive or static state but an active, dynamic, and continuous pursuit. It requires intentional effort and ongoing engagement. Believers are called to press forward, not to rest on past spiritual experiences or accomplishments.
* **Focused Pursuit of Christ:** Paul's use of epekteínomai emphasizes a singular, undivided focus on Christ and the ultimate prize of knowing Him more fully. It calls for a spiritual discipline that eliminates distractions and directs all energy towards the divine calling.
* **Forgetting the Past for Future Hope:** The juxtaposition with "forgetting what lies behind" underscores the necessity of releasing both past failures and past successes. Lingering on either can hinder progress. The Christian life is forward-looking, rooted in the eschatological hope of resurrection and full communion with Christ. This is a profound call to live in light of eternity, not merely the past or present.
* **Athletic Metaphor for Spiritual Life:** The verb evokes an athletic image, portraying the Christian life as a race that demands discipline, perseverance, and strenuous effort. It highlights the earnestness and commitment required to run the race set before us.
* **Pauline Model of Discipleship:** This verse encapsulates a core aspect of Pauline spirituality: a relentless, unceasing drive towards Christ-likeness and the consummation of salvation. It serves as an enduring model for all believers to pursue spiritual maturity with passion and determination.
### Summary
Epekteínomai (`{{G1901}}`) is a compelling Greek verb meaning "to stretch oneself forward" or "to strain forward with intense effort." Though it appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Philippians 3:13]], its singular usage is profoundly significant. It describes the Apostle Paul's active, focused, and vigorous spiritual pursuit of Christ, characterized by a deliberate letting go of the past and an earnest, athletic-like straining towards the future hope of resurrection and the prize of God's upward call. Theologically, epekteínomai underscores the dynamic nature of sanctification, the necessity of singular focus in pursuing Christ, the liberation found in releasing the past, and the fervent, hope-filled posture of the Christian life. It vividly portrays a core aspect of Pauline spirituality: a relentless, active pressing on towards the ultimate goal in Christ.
TRV