### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oikeîos**, represented by `{{G3609}}`, is a term signifying a domestic relationship. Derived from the word for house (οἶκος), it denotes a relative or an adherent. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in scripture, establishing a sense of belonging within a defined group.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G3609}}` is used to illustrate both physical and spiritual kinship. In [[1 Timothy 5:8]], it refers to the direct responsibility to **provide** `{{G4306}}` for one's own **house** `{{G3609}}`, indicating a domestic family unit. The concept is elevated in [[Galatians 6:10]], which instructs believers to do **good** `{{G18}}` unto all men, but especially to those who are of the **household** `{{G3609}}` of faith. In [[Ephesians 2:19]], believers are described as no longer being **strangers** `{{G3581}}` or **foreigners** `{{G3941}}`, but members of the very **household** `{{G3609}}` of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being part of a household:
* `{{G4847}}` **sympolítēs** (fellowcitizen): Used alongside `{{G3609}}`, this word emphasizes that believers are not outsiders but have shared rights and status with the **saints** `{{G40}}` in God's kingdom [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* `{{G3581}}` **xénos** (stranger): This term for an alien or guest is used in direct contrast to `{{G3609}}`, highlighting the transition from being an outsider to being an insider within the family of God [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* `{{G3941}}` **pároikos** (foreigner): Meaning an alien resident or sojourner, this word is also contrasted with `{{G3609}}` to show that a believer's status has fundamentally changed from temporary resident to permanent family member [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* `{{G2398}}` **ídios** (one's own): This word is paired with `{{G3609}}` to emphasize the personal and non-negotiable duty to care for one's immediate family, described as "his **own** house" [[1 Timothy 5:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3609}}` is centered on the identity and responsibility of the believer.
* **Spiritual Family:** The term expands the concept of family beyond bloodlines to include all who share in the **faith** `{{G4102}}`. Believers become members of the "household of faith" [[Galatians 6:10]] and the "household of God" [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* **Inclusion and Belonging:** It marks a definitive change in status. Formerly considered **strangers** `{{G3581}}` and **foreigners** `{{G3941}}`, believers are brought into a state of intimate belonging as **fellowcitizens** `{{G4847}}` with the **saints** `{{G40}}`.
* **Practical Duty:** Belonging to this household carries responsibilities. The failure to **provide** `{{G4306}}` for one's own **house** `{{G3609}}` is equated with having **denied** `{{G720}}` the faith and being **worse than** `{{G5501}}` an **infidel** `{{G571}}` [[1 Timothy 5:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3609}}` is a powerful descriptor that defines the believer's new identity. It moves from a literal, domestic meaning to a profound spiritual reality where individuals are adopted into God's own family. This term encapsulates both the privilege of belonging to the household of faith and the practical, moral obligations that accompany that membership.
TRV