from μέτρον; to measure (i.e. ascertain in size by a fixed standard); by implication, to admeasure (i.e. allot by rule):--figuratively, to estimate:--measure, mete.
Transliteration:metréō
Pronunciation:met-reh'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb μετρέω (metréō), `{{G3354}}`, is derived from the noun μέτρον (metron), `{{G3358}}`, meaning "measure" or "standard." Its primary semantic range encompasses the act of ascertaining size or quantity by means of a fixed standard. This includes the literal sense of "to measure," as one might measure physical dimensions or capacity. By extension, the word carries the implication of "to admeasure" or "to allot by rule," suggesting the distribution or apportionment of something according to a specific criterion or limit. Figuratively, μετρέω can also mean "to estimate" or "to evaluate," implying a judgment made against a standard, whether explicit or implied. The core concept embedded within μετρέω is the application of a standard or rule to determine value, quantity, or appropriateness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
μετρέω appears in various contexts within the New Testament, illustrating both its literal and figurative meanings.
In a literal sense, the verb is used in the book of Revelation concerning the measurement of eschatological structures:
* In [[Revelation 11:1]], John is commanded to "measure the temple of God and the altar, and those who worship in it." This signifies a divine assessment or demarcation, perhaps indicating those who are truly God's and will be preserved.
* Similarly, in [[Revelation 21:15-17]], an angel measures the New Jerusalem and its wall, providing precise dimensions. This underscores the divine order, perfection, and substantial reality of the heavenly city.
More frequently, μετρέω is employed in a figurative sense, particularly in ethical and theological contexts:
* Perhaps its most well-known usage is in the synoptic Gospels, where it denotes a principle of divine reciprocity: "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you" ([[Matthew 7:2]], [[Mark 4:24]], [[Luke 6:38]]). Here, μετρέω refers to the standard of judgment, mercy, or generosity that one applies to others, which God will then apply in return. This highlights the ethical imperative for compassion and grace, as one's own treatment by God is contingent upon one's treatment of others.
* Paul uses μετρέω in his defense against false apostles in [[2 Corinthians 10:12]]. He critiques those who "measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves," deeming such a practice unwise. Instead, Paul implies that a true measure comes from God, perhaps referring to the "sphere of influence" or "rule" (κανών) God has allotted, as suggested in the subsequent verses. This points to a divine standard for ministry and self-evaluation, rather than human comparison.
* In [[Ephesians 4:7]], μετρέω is used to describe the distribution of grace: "But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift." Here, the verb signifies the divine apportionment of grace and spiritual gifts, emphasizing that these are not given arbitrarily but "according to the measure" determined by Christ, implying both sufficiency and purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to its root noun, μέτρον (metron), `{{G3358}}`, which fundamentally means "measure," "standard," or "limit." Understanding μέτρον is essential for grasping the full semantic range of μετρέω, as the verb is the action of applying such a standard.
Other related concepts and words include:
* **Judgment and Discernment:** The idea of "measuring" often intersects with concepts of judgment (κρίνω, krinō, `{{G2919}}`) and discernment (δοκιμάζω, dokimazō, `{{G1381}}`). When one "measures" another's actions or one's own spiritual state, it involves a form of evaluation against a standard.
* **Allotment and Distribution:** In contexts like [[Ephesians 4:7]], μετρέω aligns with verbs of giving (δίδωμι, didōmi, `{{G1325}}`) or apportioning, highlighting divine sovereignty in the distribution of gifts and callings.
* **Standards and Rules:** The very essence of μετρέω implies a standard (κανών, kanōn, `{{G2583}}`) by which things are assessed. This standard is ultimately divine, reflecting God's character and will.
* **Old Testament Parallels:** The concept of precise measurement, weighing, and standards for justice is deeply rooted in the Old Testament (e.g., `{{H4949}}` - middah, `{{H4948}}` - madad, referring to measure; `{{H3976}}` - mezan, referring to scales). These often underscore God's demand for integrity and His own perfect justice.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μετρέω is profound, touching upon divine justice, human accountability, and the nature of God's provision.
1. **Divine Standard and Justice:** The recurring theme that God "measures" or applies a standard underscores His absolute righteousness and the precision of His justice. There is no arbitrariness with God; His judgments and distributions are based on perfect criteria. The principle of reciprocity ("with the measure you use...") serves as a powerful reminder that human actions are not inconsequential but are observed and will be met with a corresponding divine response. This calls believers to live by a higher standard, reflecting God's grace and mercy in their interactions.
2. **Accountability and Self-Assessment:** The use of μετρέω in contexts of human behavior (e.g., [[Matthew 7:2]]) highlights human accountability before God. Furthermore, Paul's admonition in [[2 Corinthians 10:12]] against self-measurement by human standards encourages a humble and accurate self-assessment based on God's divine assignment and calling. True spiritual maturity involves understanding one's true measure in Christ, not in comparison to others.
3. **Divine Provision and Order:** In [[Ephesians 4:7]], μετρέω speaks to the intentional and purposeful distribution of grace and spiritual gifts by Christ. This signifies that God's provision is not random but precisely "measured" to equip each believer for their unique role within the body of Christ. The literal measurements in Revelation further emphasize God's meticulous design, order, and ultimate control over creation and the eschatological reality.
### Summary
The verb μετρέω (`{{G3354}}`) encompasses both the literal act of physical measurement and the profound figurative sense of assessing, allotting, or judging according to a standard. Rooted in μέτρον (`{{G3358}}`), it consistently points to the application of a criterion or rule. In the New Testament, μετρέω illuminates several key theological truths: the principle of divine reciprocity in judgment and blessing, where one's own standard of conduct is reflected back by God ([[Matthew 7:2]]); the precise and purposeful distribution of grace and spiritual gifts by Christ ([[Ephesians 4:7]]); and the call for believers to assess themselves not by human comparison but by God's divine standard ([[2 Corinthians 10:12]]). Furthermore, its use in Revelation highlights God's meticulous order and the substantial reality of His eschatological plans ([[Revelation 21:15-17]]). Ultimately, μετρέω underscores God's perfect justice, His sovereign distribution, and the call for humanity to live by the divine measure, understanding that all actions are weighed and will elicit a corresponding divine response.
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