### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epistērízō**, represented by `{{G1991}}`, means to **support further** or **reestablish**. Derived from ἐπί and στηρίζω, its usage translates to **confirm** or **strengthen**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1991}}` describes the active work of church leaders to fortify believers. It is used when **confirming** the souls of the disciples, urging them to persevere through tribulation [[Acts 14:22]]. Similarly, the prophets Judas and Silas **confirmed** the brethren with many words [[Acts 15:32]]. The term also characterizes Paul's missionary journeys, where he traveled through regions like Syria, Cilicia, Galatia, and Phrygia for the purpose of **confirming** the churches and **strengthening** all the disciples ([[Acts 15:41]], [[Acts 18:23]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and purpose of this strengthening action:
* `{{G5590}}` **psychḗ** (soul): This is the direct object of the action in [[Acts 14:22]], where leaders are **confirming** the **souls** of the disciples, indicating a deep, internal form of support targeting the life and mind of a believer.
* `{{G3101}}` **mathētḗs** (disciple): The primary recipients of this strengthening are the **disciples**, or learners. Paul's work in Galatia and Phrygia is described as **strengthening** all the **disciples** [[Acts 18:23]].
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (exhort): This action is frequently paired with confirming. In [[Acts 14:22]], leaders are **confirming** the disciples and **exhorting** them. In [[Acts 15:32]], prophets **exhorted** and then **confirmed** the brethren, showing that encouragement is a key component of strengthening.
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): This term is used to describe the believers who were confirmed by Judas and Silas, emphasizing the familial and community-focused nature of this ministry [[Acts 15:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1991}}` is centered on the active ministry of building up the church.
* **Intentional Fortification:** The word describes a deliberate effort to make believers and churches more stable. This is seen in Paul's specific mission to go through regions for the purpose of **confirming** the churches [[Acts 15:41]].
* **Preparation for Hardship:** The act of **confirming** is directly linked to the need for perseverance. In [[Acts 14:22]], believers are strengthened and immediately reminded that they must enter the kingdom through much tribulation.
* **A Function of Leadership:** This action is performed by apostles and prophets, such as Paul, Judas, and Silas, who used teaching and exhortation to **strengthen** the believers ([[Acts 15:32]], [[Acts 18:23]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1991}}` is not a passive state but an active, pastoral verb. It signifies the vital work of reestablishing and reinforcing the faith of disciples, brethren, and entire churches. The term shows a key practice in the early church where leaders would intentionally travel to support communities, using exhortation and teaching to strengthen their souls and prepare them to endure in their faith.
TRV