### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb λείπω (leípō, `{{G3007}}`) is a primary verb carrying the core meaning of "to leave." From this foundational sense, its semantic range expands to encompass various nuances, particularly in its intransitive or passive forms. These include:
1. **To be left behind:** Indicating that something or someone has fallen short or been overlooked.
2. **To be wanting or lacking:** Denoting a deficiency, absence, or insufficiency of something necessary or desired. This can apply to material needs, spiritual qualities, or tasks left undone.
3. **To fail:** Implying an inability to meet a standard, fulfill a promise, or achieve a desired outcome.
4. **To be destitute:** Highlighting a state of extreme lack, particularly of essential provisions.
In essence, λείπω often points to an incompleteness or a deficit, whether by omission, failure, or inherent absence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of λείπω in the New Testament illuminate its varied applications:
* In [[Titus 1:5]], Paul instructs Titus: "For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee." Here, λείπω refers to what was "left undone" or "lacking" in the church's organization, emphasizing the need for completion and proper structure.
* James employs λείπω twice in quick succession in his epistle. In [[James 1:4]], he writes, "But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." This use signifies a state of spiritual completeness and maturity, where no essential quality is absent.
* Immediately following, [[James 1:5]] states, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." Here, λείπω directly denotes a deficiency in wisdom, prompting a call to prayer and reliance on divine provision.
* In [[James 2:15]], the word describes a material lack: "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food..." This highlights the plight of those "lacking" basic necessities, underscoring the practical demands of faith.
* The author of Hebrews uses λείπω in [[Hebrews 4:1]]: "Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it." This context warns against "falling short" or "failing to attain" the promised divine rest, emphasizing the danger of spiritual negligence.
* Finally, in [[2 Peter 3:9]], it is affirmed, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." Here, λείπω conveys that the Lord does not "fail" or "delay" in His promise, speaking to His steadfast faithfulness and patience.
### Related Words & Concepts
λείπω is semantically related to other Greek terms that convey notions of deficiency or incompleteness. One significant parallel is `{{G5302}}` (hysteréō), which also means "to lack," "to be in need," or "to fall short." While λείπω often emphasizes what is *left undone* or *absent*, hysteréō can highlight a state of *being behind* or *deficient*. Other related concepts include `{{G1708}}` (endeés - needy, deficient) and `{{G1707}}` (éndos - need, want).
Conversely, λείπω stands in contrast to concepts of abundance (`{{G4052}}` perisseúō), completeness (`{{G5046}}` téleios), and sufficiency (`{{G2425}}` hikanós). Its usage often underscores the human condition of need and the divine attribute of provision.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of λείπω is profound, touching upon several key doctrines:
1. **Human Insufficiency and Divine Provision:** The frequent use of λείπω to describe human lack (e.g., wisdom, material needs) highlights humanity's inherent insufficiency and dependence on God. It serves as a theological invitation to seek God for what is lacking, reinforcing the truth that God is the ultimate source of all provision and wisdom ([[James 1:5]]).
2. **Spiritual Maturity and Perfection:** The call to be "wanting nothing" ([[James 1:4]]) speaks to the eschatological goal of spiritual perfection and completeness in Christ. It implies a process of growth where believers are to be conformed to Christ's image, lacking no essential virtue.
3. **Divine Faithfulness and Patience:** The affirmation that the Lord "is not slack" or "does not fail" concerning His promise ([[2 Peter 3:9]]) powerfully asserts God's unwavering faithfulness and His patient, purposeful engagement with humanity. It counters any perception of divine neglect or delay, emphasizing His perfect timing and unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan.
4. **Ecclesial Responsibility:** In the context of church leadership, λείπω underscores the responsibility to address deficiencies and ensure the proper ordering of the church ([[Titus 1:5]]). It speaks to the ongoing work of discipleship and the establishment of sound doctrine and practice within the community of faith.
5. **Warning Against Spiritual Failure:** The admonition in Hebrews against "falling short" of God's rest ([[Hebrews 4:1]]) serves as a solemn warning. It reminds believers of the necessity of perseverance in faith and obedience to inherit the promises of God, highlighting the grave consequences of spiritual negligence or unbelief.
### Summary
λείπω (leípō, `{{G3007}}`) is a versatile Greek verb that primarily signifies "to leave," but in its various New Testament contexts, it consistently conveys the sense of "to lack," "to be wanting," or "to fail." Whether describing a deficiency in wisdom, material needs, or a task left undone, the word underscores a state of incompleteness or absence. Theologically, λείπω serves to highlight humanity's inherent insufficiency and dependence on God for provision and spiritual completeness. Simultaneously, it powerfully affirms God's unfailing faithfulness and patience in fulfilling His promises, while also serving as a sober warning against the danger of falling short of His divine rest. Its usage thus calls believers to seek divine wisdom, strive for spiritual maturity, and remain steadfast in their pursuit of God's promises, trusting in His perfect and timely provision.
TRV