The Greek word krataióō, represented by G2901, is used to mean empower or to passively increase in vigor. The term signifies a strengthening process, whether in the context of natural development or spiritual empowerment. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible.
In its biblical usage, G2901 describes two primary forms of strengthening. It is used to characterize the developmental growth of a child, as seen in the descriptions of both John the Baptist Luke 1:80 and Jesus, who "waxed strong in spirit" Luke 2:40. This form of strength is associated with growing G837 and, in the case of Jesus, being "filled with wisdom" Luke 2:40. The word is also used as a divine empowerment for believers. Paul prays that the Ephesians would be strengthened with might by God's Spirit in the inner man Ephesians 3:16 and commands the Corinthians to "be strong" as part of a series of exhortations to spiritual readiness 1 Corinthians 16:13.
Several related words help clarify the nature of the strength conveyed by G2901:
- G837 auxánō (to grow ("wax"), i.e. enlarge): This word is used alongside G2901 to describe the maturation of both John and Jesus (Luke 1:80, Luke 2:40), linking the idea of becoming strong to a process of growth and increase.
- G1411 dýnamis (force... miraculous power... might... strength): This specifies the kind of empowerment believers receive. In Ephesians 3:16, believers are to be strengthened with might G1411, indicating a strength that is a miraculous work of God.
- G4151 pneûma (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This word identifies the realm or agent of strengthening. Both Luke 1:80 and Luke 2:40 note that the children grew strong "in spirit," while Ephesians 3:16 states that this empowerment comes "by his Spirit."
- G407 andrízomai (to act manly): In 1 Corinthians 16:13, this command appears directly before "be strong," framing the strength of G2901 as a component of spiritual maturity and fortitude.
The theological weight of G2901 is seen in its application to both Christ's development and the believer's spiritual life.
- A Mark of Maturation: The use of G2901 to describe the development of Jesus and John the Baptist establishes a pattern where growing strong is a key aspect of maturation. It is tied to growing G837 in spirit (Luke 1:80, Luke 2:40).
- A Divinely Sourced Power: The strength of G2901 is not self-generated. It is a gift granted G1325 by God "according to the riches of his glory" and is enabled by his Spirit working in the "inner man" Ephesians 3:16.
- A Command for Believers: In 1 Corinthians 16:13, the command to "be strong" is presented as an essential discipline for believers, coupled with the need to be watchful G1127 and stand fast G4739 in the faith.
In summary, G2901 encompasses more than simple physical power. It represents a vital increase in vigor that is both a sign of proper development, as seen in Christ, and a necessary, Spirit-imparted strength for the believer. This strength is a gift from God, rooted in His glory, and is required for believers to stand firm and mature in their faith.
TRV