### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katérchomai**, represented by `{{G2718}}`, means to come or go down, either literally or figuratively. Derived from the words κατά (down) and ἔρχομαι (to come), its definitions include to depart, descend, land, or go down. It appears **13 times** in **13 unique verses**, primarily chronicling movement and travel in the narrative of the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2718}}` most often describes a physical journey downward or to a new location. For example, Philip **went down** to Samaria to preach Christ [[Acts 8:5]], and later, men **came down** from Judaea and taught the brethren in Antioch [[Acts 15:1]]. The word is used for apostolic travel, such as when Paul and his companions **landed** at Caesarea [[Acts 18:22]] or **departed** to Seleucia [[Acts 13:4]]. In a significant figurative use, James states that earthly wisdom is not the kind that **descendeth** from above, connecting the direction of movement to its spiritual source [[James 3:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G2718}}`:
* `{{G2597}}` **katabaínō** (to descend): This word is very similar, also meaning to come or go down. It is used for the Holy Ghost, who **descended** in a bodily shape [[Luke 3:22]], and for the Son of man, who **came down** from heaven [[John 3:13]].
* `{{G305}}` **anabaínō** (to go up): As the direct opposite of descending, this word is used in contrast to `{{G2718}}` to show a complete journey. In Acts, Paul **landed** `{{G2718}}` at Caesarea and then **gone up** `{{G305}}`, illustrating both downward and upward travel [[Acts 18:22]].
* `{{G2784}}` **kērýssō** (to preach): This word often reveals the purpose of the journey. Philip **went down** `{{G2718}}` to Samaria and **preached** `{{G2784}}` Christ to the people [[Acts 8:5]].
* `{{G1304}}` **diatrîbō** (to abide, remain): This term can describe the action following the travel. After Herod **went down** `{{G2718}}` from Judaea to Caesarea, he **abode** `{{G1304}}` there [[Acts 12:19]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2718}}` carries thematic weight, particularly in tracking the expansion of the gospel and defining spiritual origins.
* **Movement of the Gospel:** The word frequently marks the travel of apostles and prophets as they fulfill the Great Commission. Paul, sent by the Holy Ghost, **departed** to Seleucia [[Acts 13:4]], and prophets **came** from Jerusalem to Antioch, linking key centers of the early church [[Acts 11:27]].
* **Geographical and Narrative Marker:** In the book of Acts, `{{G2718}}` serves as a key logistical term to narrate the physical progression of the early church's mission, such as when Paul and Silas **were come** from Macedonia [[Acts 18:5]].
* **Distinguishing Spiritual Sources:** The most significant theological use is in James, where a downward motion is contrasted with a divine origin. The wisdom that does not **descend** from above is defined as **earthly** `{{G1919}}`, **sensual** `{{G5591}}`, and **devilish** `{{G1141}}`, using the concept of descent to establish its ungodly nature [[James 3:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2718}}` is a straightforward yet important verb of motion. While often used for literal travel, it underpins the narrative of the early church's active and mobile ministry. Its usage in Acts maps the geographic spread of the gospel, while its figurative application in James provides a powerful contrast between divine wisdom from above and worldly wisdom that originates below. The word demonstrates how a simple action—coming down—can signify the purposeful and directed mission of God's messengers.
TRV