### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **zéō**, represented by `{{G2204}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to be hot**, as in boiling liquids or glowing solids. Figuratively, it conveys being fervid or earnest. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet it powerfully illustrates a state of spiritual intensity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G2204}}` highlight its practical application. In [[Romans 12:11]], believers are instructed not to be **slothful** `{{G3636}}` but to be **fervent** in **spirit** `{{G4151}}` while **serving** `{{G1398}}` the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`. This places fervency as a direct antidote to spiritual laziness. In [[Acts 18:25]], a man named Apollos is described as being **fervent** in the **spirit** `{{G4151}}`, a state which resulted in him speaking and teaching **diligently** `{{G199}}` about the Lord, even though his knowledge was limited to the **baptism** `{{G908}}` of John.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of being fervent:
* `{{G3636}}` **oknērós** (slothful): Defined as tardy or indolent, this word is presented as the direct opposite of being fervent in spirit [[Romans 12:11]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): This term, meaning a current of air, breath, or a spirit, is the sphere in which fervency operates in both biblical occurrences. It can refer to the human spirit or the Holy Spirit ([[Romans 12:11]]; [[Acts 18:25]]).
* `{{G1398}}` **douleúō** (serving): Meaning to be a slave to or to serve, this action is the direct outcome of being fervent in spirit, connecting inner zeal with outward service to the Lord [[Romans 12:11]].
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (teach): The fervency of Apollos in [[Acts 18:25]] is channeled into his action of teaching, showing that this spiritual heat fuels the communication of God's ways.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2204}}` is centered on the nature of Christian zeal.
* **An Expression of Service:** Fervency is not an idle state but a dynamic quality that results in action. It is directly linked to **serving** `{{G1398}}` the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`, indicating that true spiritual heat produces diligent work for God [[Romans 12:11]].
* **Fuel for Ministry:** In the example of Apollos, being **fervent** in **spirit** `{{G4151}}` precedes and empowers his ability to speak and **teach** `{{G1321}}` with diligence. This suggests that spiritual earnestness is a vital component for effective ministry [[Acts 18:25]].
* **A Contrast to Complacency:** The command in [[Romans 12:11]] sets up a clear choice between being **slothful** `{{G3636}}` and being **fervent** `{{G2204}}`, framing spiritual intensity as a required characteristic of a believer's life, not an optional one.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2204}}` **zéō** provides a vivid metaphor for the Christian's inner life. Though used sparingly, it defines a spiritual state of being "hot" or boiling with earnestness for the Lord. This fervency is positioned as the opposite of slothfulness and is shown to be the driving force behind dedicated service and the diligent teaching of God's word. It is a call to an active, passionate, and spiritually intense walk with God.
TRV