### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katartismós**, represented by `{{G2677}}`, means **perfecting** or complete furnishing. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, indicating a highly specific application within scripture. Its meaning is derived from καταρτίζω and points to a state of being completely furnished or prepared for a purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2677}}` is found in [[Ephesians 4:12]]. Here, the word describes a foundational purpose: the **perfecting** of the saints. This process is presented as the reason for subsequent actions, namely "the **work** of the **ministry**" and "the **edifying** of the **body** of **Christ**." The term signifies a state of being made complete or fully equipped, which enables believers to serve and build up the church.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the purpose of `{{G2677}}`:
* `{{G1248}}` **diakonía**: Defined as **service** or ministry, this word highlights the active, functional aspect of a perfected believer. The perfecting is for the purpose of ministry [[Ephesians 4:12]].
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon**: Meaning **work**, deed, or labor, this term connects perfecting to tangible actions and effort. Believers are furnished for the work of service [[Ephesians 4:12]].
* `{{G3619}}` **oikodomḗ**: This word means **building** or edification. It points to the constructive outcome of the perfecting process, which is to build up the body of Christ [[Ephesians 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2677}}`, though based on a single verse, is profound.
* **Equipping for Service:** The concept of **perfecting** is fundamentally tied to function. Believers are made complete not for personal status but to be equipped for the **work** `{{G2041}}` of the **ministry** `{{G1248}}`.
* **Corporate Growth:** The ultimate aim of this perfecting is the **edifying** `{{G3619}}` of the **body** `{{G4983}}` of **Christ** `{{G5547}}`. This highlights that spiritual maturation is for the benefit and building up of the entire community of saints `{{G40}}`.
* **Divine Objective:** The term shows that the goal for the **saints** `{{G40}}` is to be furnished for a divine purpose, which is service that builds the church [[Ephesians 4:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2677}}` **katartismós** provides a crucial theological concept in a single appearance. It moves beyond a general idea of maturity to a specific state of being completely furnished for a purpose. This perfecting is not an end in itself but the necessary preparation for the saints to engage in the **work** of the **ministry**, ultimately for the **edifying** of the **body of Christ** [[Ephesians 4:12]]. The word encapsulates the idea that believers are equipped to be active, constructive members of the church.
TRV