The Greek word hopoîos, represented by G3697, is a term used to describe quality, asking or stating "what manner" or "what sort" of thing something is. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses. The word functions as an indefinite correlative, often relating to a definite antecedent of quality, essentially clarifying the nature or character of a person, action, or thing.
In scripture, G3697 is used to specify the nature or quality of something. For instance, it is used to describe the ultimate test of a believer's work, which will be tried by fire to show "of what sort it is" 1 Corinthians 3:13. In a different context, James uses it to illustrate forgetfulness, describing a man who beholds himself and then forgets "what manner of man he was" James 1:24. The word also characterizes the impact of ministry, as the Thessalonians shew... what manner of entering in the apostles had among them 1 Thessalonians 1:9. It can also be used dismissively, as when Paul states that "whatsoever" the other apostles were in person makes no difference, as God does not accept a man's person Galatians 2:6.
Several related words clarify the function of G3697:
- G5108 toioûtos (such): This word is the direct correlative to G3697. It points to a specific, definite quality. Paul uses them together, wishing his hearers would become "such G5108 as G3697 I am" Acts 26:29.
- G1381 dokimázō (to test, approve): This word describes the process of discerning the quality of something. Fire will try G1381 every man's work to reveal of what sort G3697 it is 1 Corinthians 3:13.
- G1950 epilanthánomai (to forget): This is linked to self-perception. In James, a person who fails to act on the word of God immediately forgetteth G1950 what manner of man G3697 he was James 1:24.
The theological weight of G3697 lies in its focus on the true quality and nature of spiritual realities.
- The Character of Conversion: The word highlights that a genuine entering in G1529 of the gospel is defined by its transformative quality. This is seen when people turn G1994 from idols to serve G1398 the living G2198 and true G228 God 1 Thessalonians 1:9.
- The Standard of Judgment: Divine judgment is concerned with the essence of one's work G2041. God will not only assess the deed itself, but will try G1381 it by fire G4442 to declare G1213 "of what sort" it truly is, revealing its underlying substance 1 Corinthians 3:13.
- Spiritual Self-Awareness: The term is used to challenge believers to remember their identity. A hearer who is not a doer quickly forgetteth G1950 "what manner of man he was," pointing to the importance of living in accordance with one's new nature James 1:24.
In summary, G3697 hopoîos is more than an interrogative word; it is a lens for evaluating the true nature of things. It forces a consideration of quality over mere appearance or action. Whether assessing the impact of an "entering in" 1 Thessalonians 1:9, the substance of a man's work at the judgment 1 Corinthians 3:13, or the identity of a believer James 1:24, this word consistently points to the character and quality that God sees and will ultimately reveal.
TRV