The Greek word epidiorthóō, represented by G1930, means to straighten further, i.e. (figuratively) arrange additionally:--set in order. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. This specific term conveys the idea of completing or correcting something that is already in progress but is currently lacking.
The single occurrence of G1930 is found in Titus 1:5, where Paul instructs Titus on his mission in Crete. Paul states he left G2641 Titus there that G2443 he should set in order G1930 "the things that are wanting" G3007. This action is directly connected to the subsequent command to ordain G2525 elders G4245 in every city G4172, fulfilling an arrangement that Paul had previously appointed G1299.
Several related words clarify the context of setting things in order:
- G3007 leípō (to leave, i.e. (intransitively or passively) to fail or be absent:--be destitute (wanting), lack): This word identifies what needs to be addressed. Titus was to set in order the things that were wanting Titus 1:5, a term also used to describe lacking wisdom James 1:5.
- G2525 kathístēmi (to place down (permanently), i.e. (figuratively) to designate, constitute, convoy:--appoint, be, conduct, make, ordain, set): This describes the specific action of appointing leadership. After setting things in order, Titus was to ordain elders, just as a master might make a faithful servant ruler over his household Matthew 24:45.
- G1299 diatássō (to arrange thoroughly, i.e. (specially) institute, prescribe, etc.:--appoint, command, give, (set in) order, ordain): This refers to the authoritative instruction given. Titus's task was a follow-up to what Paul had already appointed Titus 1:5, an authority Paul also used to ordain practices in all churches 1 Corinthians 7:17.
The theological significance of G1930 is centered on the establishment of proper church order and governance.
- Apostolic Delegation: The command to set in order comes from Paul, demonstrating the principle of delegated authority to establish and structure local churches according to a specific pattern he had appointed Titus 1:5.
- Correction and Completion: The word implies correcting deficiencies and completing what is unfinished. The task was to address "the things that are wanting" G3007, highlighting that the initial work in Crete needed further arrangement to be sound Titus 1:5.
- Ordaining Leadership: The primary method for setting things in order was to ordain G2525 elders G4245 in every city G4172. This shows that a rightly ordered church is built upon established and recognized leadership.
In summary, epidiorthóō G1930, while appearing only once, carries significant weight. It refers to the crucial task of completing and correcting the foundational structure of the church. In its sole context, it is the specific instruction for Titus to address what was wanting in Crete by establishing qualified elders in every city Titus 1:5. This single use illustrates a key principle of apostolic ministry: ensuring that fledgling church communities are brought into proper order through designated leadership.
TRV