### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **metapémpō**, represented by `{{G3343}}`, means to **summon** or **invite** someone from another place. It appears **8 times** in **7 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is formed from μετά and πέμπω, conveying the idea of sending for someone to have them come to the sender.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all occurrences of `{{G3343}}` are found in the book of Acts, where it is used to describe a summons that initiates a significant event. A pivotal use is when an angel of God directs Cornelius, a centurion, to **send for** Simon Peter [[Acts 10:22]]. This summons is repeated in Peter's recounting of the event [[Acts 11:13]]. When Peter arrives, he confirms he came because he was **sent for** [[Acts 10:29]]. The word is also used to describe human summonses with varying motives, such as when Felix **sent for** Paul to hear about the faith [[Acts 24:24]] but also hoped for a bribe [[Acts 24:26]], or when Paul's enemies plotted to have him **sent for** to Jerusalem so they could kill him [[Acts 25:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the action and context of summoning:
* `{{G3992}}` **pémpō** (to dispatch): This is a base component of `metapémpō` and describes the act of sending. It is used in direct parallel in [[Acts 10:5]], where Cornelius is told to "**send** men to Joppa, and **call for** one Simon."
* `{{G32}}` **ángelos** (angel, messenger): The summons of Peter by Cornelius was divinely initiated by a holy **messenger** from God [[Acts 10:22]]. An **angel** is a key agent in bringing about God's will.
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): A primary purpose for summoning someone is to listen to them. Cornelius was told to send for Peter in order to **hear** words from him [[Acts 10:22]], and Felix sent for Paul to **hear** him concerning the faith in Christ [[Acts 24:24]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3343}}` carries significant narrative weight, often marking a turning point orchestrated for a divine or human purpose.
* **Divine Appointments:** The summons of Peter to the house of Cornelius is not a mere invitation but a divinely commanded meeting. An angel directs Cornelius to **send for** Peter, an action that opens the way for the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles [[Acts 10:22]].
* **Confrontation with the Gospel:** Being **sent for** often results in a direct encounter with spiritual truth. Felix **sends for** Paul specifically to hear about "the faith in Christ" [[Acts 24:24]], placing the gospel message before a powerful Roman official.
* **Human Motives:** The act of summoning is also driven by human intent, both good and evil. While Cornelius sends for Peter out of a desire to fear God [[Acts 10:22]], Felix sends for Paul hoping for money [[Acts 24:26]], and the Jews desire to **send for** Paul as part of a murderous plot [[Acts 25:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3343}}` **metapémpō** is a specific term for summoning or inviting that, in scripture, is used exclusively in the book of Acts. It serves as a key verb to advance the narrative, bringing characters together for pivotal interactions. Whether initiated by a holy angel for the expansion of the church or by humans for personal gain or malicious intent, the act of **sending for** someone consistently leads to a consequential encounter with key figures of the early church.
TRV