The Greek word loipón, represented by G3063, is an adverbial term for what is remaining. It appears 14 times across 14 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its context, it is translated in various ways, including finally, furthermore, henceforth, moreover, now, besides, and then. It typically signals a transition or a concluding thought.
In scripture, G3063 is used to guide the reader's attention. It often introduces final exhortations or summaries, as when Paul writes, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord" Ephesians 6:10. The word can point to a future reality, as in "From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool" Hebrews 10:13. It is also used to mark a consequential moment in a narrative, such as when all hope G1680 was "then taken away" during the storm at sea Acts 27:20. In other contexts, it adds a final piece of information, such as when Paul recounts who he baptized and adds, "besides, I know not whether I baptized any other" 1 Corinthians 1:16.
Several related words clarify the purpose and context of G3063:
- G1743 endynamóō (to empower): This is the command that immediately follows G3063 in Ephesians 6:10, urging believers to be made strong in the Lord.
- G3049 logízomai (to take an inventory, i.e. estimate): After listing a series of virtues introduced by "Finally" G3063, Paul commands believers to think on these things, making this the central action Philippians 4:8.
- G1551 ekdéchomai (to await): This action is directly linked to G3063 in Hebrews 10:13, where Christ is described as "From henceforth expecting" His final victory.
- G5143 tréchō (to run or walk hastily): In 2 Thessalonians 3:1, the request that follows "Finally" G3063 is for prayer so that the word of the Lord may have free course.
The use of G3063 carries significant weight, often serving as a pivot from doctrine to application.
- A Signal for Concluding Commands: G3063 frequently introduces a series of crucial, summary instructions for believers. It prefaces calls to "be strong" Ephesians 6:10, to "rejoice in the Lord" Philippians 3:1, and to "be perfect" and "live in peace" 2 Corinthians 13:11.
- A Pointer to Future Hope: The term shifts the believer's focus from a present circumstance to a future certainty. Paul uses it to declare that "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness" 2 Timothy 4:8, linking the remaining time on earth to a guaranteed heavenly reward.
- A Framework for Godly Thinking: In Philippians 4:8, G3063 introduces a definitive list of virtues—whatsoever is true G227, honest G4586, just G1342, and pure G53—that should occupy a believer's mind. This establishes a key discipline for Christian living.
In summary, G3063 is far more than a simple transitional word. It functions as a crucial marker in apostolic writing, signaling a shift to final exhortations, summarizing core virtues for meditation, and directing the hearts of believers toward their future hope. Whether translated as "finally," "henceforth," or "moreover," loipón consistently emphasizes the importance of what remains—be it a final instruction, a way of thinking, or the confident expectation of what is to come.
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