### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **métron**, represented by `{{G3358}}`, is a primary term for **measure**. It appears **13 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. It is used both literally and figuratively to define a **measure** or, by implication, a limited portion or degree.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3358}}` is used in several key contexts. It establishes a principle of spiritual reciprocity, as seen in the teaching that the **measure** you use will be measured back to you ([[Matthew 7:2]], [[Luke 6:38]]). It is also used to describe a portion distributed by God, such as the "**measure** of faith" dealt to every man [[Romans 12:3]] or grace given "according to the **measure** of the gift of Christ" [[Ephesians 4:7]]. In contrast, God gives the Spirit "not by **measure**" [[John 3:34]], signifying an unlimited supply. Finally, it serves as a benchmark for spiritual maturity, with believers striving to reach "the **measure** of the stature of the fulness of Christ" [[Ephesians 4:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of measurement, standards, and apportionment:
* `{{G3354}}` **metréō** (to measure): This verb is the direct action associated with `métron`. It is used alongside it to illustrate the principle of reciprocity: "with what **measure** ye **mete**, it shall be **measured** to you" [[Mark 4:24]].
* `{{G488}}` **antimetréō** (to mete in return): This word explicitly defines the responsive action in the principle of reciprocity. It is used to state that the measure one uses will be "measured to you **again**" [[Matthew 7:2]].
* `{{G2583}}` **kanṓn** (a rule, standard, or boundary): This term is used with `métron` to define a specific sphere of activity assigned by God, as in "the **measure** of the **rule** which God hath distributed to us" [[2 Corinthians 10:13]].
* `{{G280}}` **ámetros** (immoderate): As the direct negative, this term means "without **measure**." It is used to contrast proper, God-given boundaries with boasting of things that are without measure [[2 Corinthians 10:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3358}}` is significant, highlighting key doctrines of Christian life and faith.
* **The Principle of Reciprocity:** `{{G3358}}` establishes a foundational spiritual law where the standard an individual uses for others becomes the standard God uses for them, whether in judgment or blessing [[Luke 6:38]].
* **Sovereign Distribution:** The term illustrates that God distributes spiritual gifts and faith in designated portions. Each believer receives a specific "**measure** of faith" [[Romans 12:3]] and grace according to the "**measure** of the gift of Christ" [[Ephesians 4:7]], equipping them for their unique role.
* **The Standard of Maturity:** `{{G3358}}` is used to define the ultimate goal for believers, which is conformity to Christ. The objective of the church is to grow "unto the **measure** of the stature of the fulness of Christ" [[Ephesians 4:13]], making Christ himself the perfect standard.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3358}}` is far more than a simple term for a unit of volume or length. It is a cornerstone concept for understanding spiritual reciprocity, the sovereign apportionment of divine grace, and the ultimate standard of Christian maturity. The word illustrates how God both assigns specific portions of faith to believers for His purposes and establishes the unlimited fulness of Christ as the goal for all.
TRV