### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mḗpōs**, represented by `{{G3381}}`, is a particle of caution meaning **lest somehow** or **lest by any means**. It appears **13 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to introduce a potential negative consequence that the speaker or author is anxious to avoid, often expressing a sense of fear, warning, or preemptive concern.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3381}}` is frequently used by the Apostle Paul to convey his pastoral anxieties and to issue warnings. He expresses his fear **lest** the Corinthian believers' minds should be **corrupted** `{{G5351}}` from the simplicity of Christ, just as Eve was **beguiled** `{{G1818}}` by the serpent [[2 Corinthians 11:3]]. Paul also applies this caution to his own ministry, disciplining his body **lest** after having **preached** `{{G2784}}` to others, he himself should be disqualified [[1 Corinthians 9:27]]. The term is also used to warn believers about their conduct, urging them to take heed **lest** their liberty becomes a **stumblingblock** `{{G4348}}` to the weak [[1 Corinthians 8:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G3381}}` appears:
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed, fear): This word is often paired directly with `{{G3381}}`, establishing the motivation behind the warning. Paul states, "I **fear**, **lest**" when worrying about the influence of the serpent [[2 Corinthians 11:3]] and when concerned about finding sin in the Corinthian church [[2 Corinthians 12:20]].
* `{{G3985}}` **peirázō** (to test, tempt): This highlights the external danger that `{{G3381}}` warns against. Paul was concerned for the Thessalonians, "**lest by some means** the **tempter** have **tempted** you" [[1 Thessalonians 3:5]].
* `{{G2872}}` **kopiáō** (to work hard, toil): This word is used to describe the apostolic effort that could be rendered useless by the negative outcome that `{{G3381}}` anticipates. Paul expresses his fear for the Galatians, "**lest** I have **bestowed** upon you **labour** in vain" [[Galatians 4:11]].
* `{{G5351}}` **phtheírō** (to spoil, ruin, deprave): This term describes the specific negative outcome of corruption that Paul fears for the Corinthians, "**lest**... your minds should be **corrupted**" [[2 Corinthians 11:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3381}}` is significant, emphasizing a proactive and vigilant faith.
* **Pastoral Watchfulness:** The term is a hallmark of apostolic concern. Paul uses it to express his fear **lest** the churches fall into error, **lest** his ministry among them prove fruitless [[Galatians 2:2]], and **lest** a repentant brother be **swallowed up** `{{G2666}}` by too much sorrow [[2 Corinthians 2:7]].
* **Corporate Responsibility:** It functions as a warning for the community. Believers are called to be careful with their freedoms, **lest** they cause another to stumble [[1 Corinthians 8:9]]. Paul also fears **lest** he should find division and sin, such as **debates** `{{G2054}}`, **envyings** `{{G2205}}`, and **tumults** `{{G181}}`, upon his return to Corinth [[2 Corinthians 12:20]].
* **Ministerial Integrity:** `{{G3381}}` underscores the need for self-discipline in service to God. Paul's fear **lest** he himself should become a castaway demonstrates that even the most dedicated ministers must remain vigilant [[1 Corinthians 9:27]]. This concern extends to the Macedonians finding the Corinthians **unprepared** `{{G532}}`, which would bring shame [[2 Corinthians 9:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3381}}` is more than a simple conjunction; it is a word loaded with preventative and cautionary significance. It serves as a marker of deep pastoral concern, a call to personal discipline, and a warning to the community to guard against spiritual dangers. Whether fearing deception, internal strife, or wasted labor, the use of **mḗpōs** consistently points to a potential negative reality that believers are urged to vigilantly avoid through faith and careful conduct.
TRV