### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb ἑτοίμως (hetoímōs, `{{G2093}}`) is derived from the adjective ἕτοιμος (hetoímos, `{{G2092}}`), meaning "ready," "prepared," or "fit." As an adverb, ἑτοίμως conveys the sense of "readily," "in readiness," "with promptness," or "without hesitation." It describes the *manner* in which an action is undertaken or a state is maintained, emphasizing a complete and willing preparedness. It implies not just being prepared, but being *eagerly* or *swiftly* prepared, indicating a state of full disposition for an event or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The adverb ἑτοίμως appears in two significant passages in the New Testament, each revealing a distinct yet related theological emphasis:
* **[[Acts 21:13]]**: In this passage, Paul confronts the fervent pleas of his companions who urge him not to go to Jerusalem, fearing the suffering that awaits him there. Paul responds with unwavering resolve: "For I am ready [ἑτοίμως] not only to be bound but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." Here, ἑτοίμως underscores Paul's profound and unhesitating commitment to Christ. It is not merely a statement of intellectual preparedness, but a declaration of his spiritual and emotional readiness to face severe persecution, even martyrdom. This adverb highlights his complete surrender and willingness to suffer for the gospel, embodying a radical discipleship that prioritizes God's will above personal safety.
* **[[1 Peter 4:5]]**: Peter writes concerning those who slander believers: "who will give account to Him who is ready [ἑτοίμως] to judge the living and the dead." In this context, ἑτοίμως describes God (or Christ) as being fully prepared and poised to execute final judgment. The adverb emphasizes the certainty, inevitability, and perfect timing of divine justice. It conveys that the Judge is not merely capable of judgment, but is perpetually "in readiness" to fulfill this ultimate role. This provides both a solemn warning to the unrighteous and a profound comfort to the persecuted, assuring them that ultimate justice will be meted out by a perfectly prepared and righteous Judge.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of ἑτοίμως is rich and interconnected with several other Greek terms:
* **ἕτοιμος (hetoímos, `{{G2092}}`)**: The foundational adjective meaning "ready, prepared, fit." This is the root from which ἑτοίμως is formed.
* **ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimázō, `{{G2090}}`)**: The verb meaning "to prepare, make ready." This verb describes the active process of preparation that leads to the state of being ἕτοιμος or acting ἑτοίμως.
* **ἑτοιμασία (hetoimasía, `{{G2091}}`)**: A noun meaning "preparation" or "readiness," notably used in [[Ephesians 6:15]] regarding the "preparation of the gospel of peace" as part of the believer's spiritual armor.
* **Contrasting Concepts**: The meaning of ἑτοίμως stands in stark contrast to ideas of hesitation, reluctance, unpreparedness, or delay. It implies an active, willing, and immediate disposition.
* **Theological Concepts**: The concept of readiness is crucial in biblical theology, encompassing themes such as vigilance for Christ's return, preparedness for suffering, and the certainty of divine judgment.
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of ἑτοίμως offer profound theological insights into both human discipleship and divine sovereignty:
* **Human Readiness for God's Will**: Paul's use of ἑτοίμως in [[Acts 21:13]] serves as an exemplary model of Christian dedication. It signifies a spiritual posture of complete surrender and unreserved obedience to God's calling, even when it leads to hardship or death. This readiness is not born of recklessness but of a deep conviction and trust in the Lord. It underscores the call for believers to cultivate a spirit of active willingness and preparedness to serve Christ in all circumstances, reflecting a life lived in anticipation of His will.
* **Divine Readiness for Judgment**: In [[1 Peter 4:5]], ἑτοίμως speaks to the absolute certainty and immutability of God's justice. The divine Judge is perpetually ἑτοίμως—fully prepared, equipped, and ready to execute righteous judgment. This truth provides a foundational assurance for believers facing persecution, knowing that their suffering is seen and that ultimate justice will prevail. Simultaneously, it serves as a solemn warning to those who reject God, emphasizing that accountability is assured and will be met by a perfectly prepared and just God.
### Summary
ἑτοίμως (hetoímōs, `{{G2093}}`) is a powerful Greek adverb signifying "readily" or "in readiness," emphasizing a complete, willing, and prompt state of preparedness. Its two New Testament occurrences illuminate crucial theological truths: In [[Acts 21:13]], it exemplifies Paul's unhesitating and sacrificial readiness to suffer and die for Christ, modeling profound Christian discipleship. In [[1 Peter 4:5]], it underscores God's unwavering and perfect readiness to execute judgment, affirming divine sovereignty and the certainty of justice. Rooted in the concept of ἕτοιμος (`{{G2092}}`, "ready"), ἑτοίμως calls believers to cultivate an active spiritual preparedness for God's will and reminds all of the assured and timely nature of God's righteous judgment.
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