The Greek word misthapodótēs, represented by G3406, defines the role of a renumerator or rewarder. Derived from the words μισθόω and ἀποδίδωμι, its biblical usage is highly specific, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse.
The single occurrence of G3406 is found in a pivotal statement about faith. The passage asserts that it is impossible to please God without faith. A core component of this necessary faith is believing that God exists and, just as importantly, that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him Hebrews 11:6. The word, therefore, is not used in isolation but as a crucial definition of God's character that one must believe in order to approach Him acceptably.
Several related words from its context in Hebrews 11:6 illuminate the meaning of G3406:
- G4102 pístis (faith): Defined as "persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction," this is the essential prerequisite for pleasing the one who is the rewarder. Belief in God's role as a renumerator is a key component of this faith Hebrews 11:6.
- G1567 ekzētéō (diligently seek): This word means "to search out, i.e. (figuratively)investigate, crave, demand, (by Hebraism) worship". It identifies the specific group of people to whom God acts as a rewarder Hebrews 11:6.
- G4334 prosérchomai (approach): Meaning "to approach, i.e. (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to," this describes the action of the person who must believe that God is a rewarder. It frames the concept as foundational for anyone coming to God Hebrews 11:6.
- G4100 pisteúō (believe): This term, meaning "to have faith (in... a person or thing)," is the verb required of one who comes to God. One must believe that God exists and that He is a rewarder Hebrews 11:6.
The theological weight of G3406 is centered on the nature of God and the essence of faith.
- God's Responsive Nature: The word establishes that God is not merely a passive object of belief but an active renumerator. A core tenet of faith is the conviction that He responds to and rewards those who pursue Him Hebrews 11:6.
- The Foundation of Pleasing Faith: The faith G4102 that is able to please G2100 God G2316 is defined as having two parts: believing in His existence and believing in His character as a rewarder. For the one who "cometh to God," these two beliefs are inseparable Hebrews 11:6.
- The Condition for Reward: The role of rewarder is explicitly conditional. It is directed toward "them that diligently seek him." This directly connects the believer's earnest pursuit of God with the promise of divine remuneration Hebrews 11:6.
In summary, while appearing only once, G3406 is a theologically dense term. It encapsulates the vital concept that God is a renumerator. This is not a secondary attribute but a fundamental truth that must be believed by anyone who wishes to please God. The word firmly links the human act of diligently seeking God with the certainty of His divine and rewarding response, placing this truth at the very heart of what it means to have faith Hebrews 11:6.
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