The Greek word mémphomai, represented by G3201, means to blame or find fault. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses, making each occurrence significant. This term is used to describe the act of lodging a complaint or identifying a defect, whether in human tradition, divine action, or covenantal agreements.
In the biblical narrative, G3201 is used to frame critical turning points and theological questions. In Hebrews 8:8, God Himself is the one finding fault with the first covenant, providing the reason for establishing a new one with Israel and Judah. Mark 7:2 presents a different context, where some found fault with Jesus' disciples for a ceremonial infraction: eating bread with defiled, unwashed hands. Lastly, Romans 9:19 employs the term in a challenging rhetorical question about divine sovereignty: "Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?"
Several related words provide context for the act of finding fault:
- G2046 eréō (to utter, i.e. speak or say): This word introduces the question in Romans 9:19, where one might say or question why God finds fault G3201.
- G436 anthístēmi (to stand against, i.e. oppose): Used in the same verse, it questions who can resist God's will, directly linking the act of finding fault G3201 to divine power and authority Romans 9:19.
- G1013 boúlēma (a resolve:--purpose, will): This term is the object of resistance in Romans 9:19. The argument hinges on the idea that if no one can resist God's will, it seems contradictory for Him to then find fault G3201.
- G1492 eídō (properly, to see): In Mark 7:2, the act of finding fault G3201 is a direct result of observation; the narrative states that when they saw the disciples eating with unwashed hands, they found fault.
- G2839 koinós (common, i.e. ... ceremonially) profane: This specifies the reason for the fault-finding in Mark 7:2. The disciples' hands were considered defiled G2839, which was the basis of the complaint.
The theological weight of G3201 is significant in its few appearances.
- Basis for a New Covenant: The use of G3201 in Hebrews 8:8 is foundational to understanding the New Covenant. It is not human dissatisfaction but God's own act of "finding fault" with the old system that necessitates and validates the new promise He makes.
- Human versus Divine Judgment: The contrast between its use in Mark and Hebrews is stark. In Mark 7:2, finding fault is tied to human traditions and ceremonial purity. In Hebrews 8:8, it is a divine verdict on the inadequacy of an entire covenant, highlighting the difference between superficial and substantive judgment.
- Divine Sovereignty and Justice: Romans 9:19 uses G3201 to explore the tension between God's absolute sovereignty and human responsibility. The question "Why doth he yet find fault?" is a profound theological query that challenges believers to reconcile God's unchallenged will G1013 with his role as a righteous judge who holds humanity accountable.
In summary, G3201 is a focused term for expressing blame or identifying defects. Though used only three times, it appears in pivotal passages. It is used to describe the ceremonial judgments of men Mark 7:2, to frame a deep theological question about divine justice Romans 9:19, and to articulate God's own reason for superseding the first covenant Hebrews 8:8. Each instance demonstrates that the act of "finding fault" can range from a minor grievance to a declaration of cosmic significance.
TRV