### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **latreúō**, represented by `{{G3000}}`, describes the act of religious service or worship. Derived from a term for a hired menial, its base definition is **to minister (to God), i.e. render religious homage**. It appears 21 times across 21 unique verses in the Bible. The term specifies a focused devotion, whether rendered to the true God or directed toward false objects of worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3000}}` is used to define the nature of exclusive devotion. In response to Satan, Jesus declares that one must "worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou **serve**" ([[Matthew 4:10]], [[Luke 4:8]]). Conversely, the term is used to describe idolatry, such as when people **served** the creature more than the Creator [[Romans 1:25]] or when Israel was given up to **worship** the host of heaven [[Acts 7:42]]. This service is often depicted as a continuous act, with believers **serving** God "day and night" ([[Revelation 7:15]], [[Acts 26:7]]). True service is characterized as originating from a purified conscience, made possible through the blood of Christ [[Hebrews 9:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of religious service:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave): While `latreúō` stems from the idea of a hired worker, `doûlos` denotes a bond-servant. The two are linked in the ultimate state of believers, where His **servants** `{{G1401}}` will **serve** `{{G3000}}` Him [[Revelation 22:3]].
* `{{G4352}}` **proskynéō** (to fawn or crouch to, i.e. prostrate oneself in homage): This word for worship is often paired with `latreúō`, indicating both the posture of adoration and the life of service owed to God [[Matthew 4:10]].
* `{{G2378}}` **thysía** (sacrifice): The Old Testament sacrifices `{{G2378}}` could not perfect the conscience of him that did the **service** `{{G3000}}` [[Hebrews 9:9]], contrasting the old service with the new.
* `{{G127}}` **aidṓs** (bashfulness, i.e. (towards men), modesty or (towards God) awe): This defines the proper attitude for service, as believers are called to **serve** `{{G3000}}` God acceptably with **reverence** `{{G127}}` and godly fear [[Hebrews 12:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3000}}` is significant in defining a believer's devotion.
* **Exclusive Allegiance:** The word establishes a clear boundary for worship. It is a service to be rendered to God alone [[Luke 4:8]], and to direct it elsewhere is a perversion, such as **serving** the creature [[Romans 1:25]].
* **Internal Purity:** True service is not merely an external ritual. Paul states he **serves** God with his spirit [[Romans 1:9]] and from a pure conscience [[2 Timothy 1:3]]. This internal state is what distinguishes it from the "dead works" of the past [[Hebrews 9:14]].
* **Perpetual Worship:** The concept of **serving** is portrayed as a constant activity, occurring "day and night" ([[Luke 2:37]], [[Acts 26:7]]). This culminates in the eternal state, where the redeemed **serve** God in His temple [[Revelation 7:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3000}}` conveys a specific form of religious homage and ministry. It is not general work but a life oriented around devotion. The term distinguishes between true service offered to God from a pure spirit and the false service of idolatry. From a foundational command for exclusive loyalty to an eternal reality of ceaseless worship, `latreúō` defines the core responsibility and privilege of a follower of God.
TRV