The Greek word anaplēróō, represented by G378, means to complete, supply, occupy, or accomplish. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. The term is versatile, covering actions from fulfilling a divine command to supplying a practical need.
In its biblical usage, G378 describes several distinct actions. It is used to signify the fulfillment of prophecy, as when the spiritual blindness of the people fulfills the words of Esaias Matthew 13:14. It also denotes the act of supplying what is lacking, such as when Epaphroditus's efforts supply the Philippians' lack of service toward Paul Philippians 2:30. The word can also mean to occupy a position, as in the context of an unlearned person who occupies a certain role or place in a church gathering 1 Corinthians 14:16. In a darker context, it describes the filling up of sins to their limit, leading to God's wrath 1 Thessalonians 2:16.
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of G378:
- G941 bastázō (to lift, literally or figuratively... bear, carry...): This action is directly linked to fulfilling the law. Believers are instructed to bear one another's burdens to fulfil the law of Christ Galatians 6:2.
- G5303 hystérēma (a deficit; specially, poverty... lack(-ing)...): This word for "lack" or "deficit" is what G378 is often used to supply. Paul was glad because Stephanas and others supplied what was lacking on the part of the Corinthians 1 Corinthians 16:17.
- G3551 nómos (law): This is the object that is fulfilled through the actions of believers. By bearing burdens, believers actively fulfil the law of Christ Galatians 6:2.
The theological significance of G378 is demonstrated in its application to core Christian principles:
- Active Obedience: The command to fulfil the law of Christ is not a passive state but an active one, achieved by bearing the burdens of others Galatians 6:2. This connects fulfillment of the law to tangible acts of love and service.
- Mutual Service: The concept of supplying what is lacking underscores the interdependence of the body of Christ. One person's service can complete what another is unable to provide, as seen in Paul's relationship with the Philippian church Philippians 2:30.
- Divine Sovereignty and Judgment: The word is used to show the accomplishment of God's prophetic word, even through human unbelief Matthew 13:14. It is also used to signify a final measure of sin being reached, after which judgment or wrath G3709 inevitably comes 1 Thessalonians 2:16.
In summary, G378 anaplēróō is a dynamic word that conveys completion and fulfillment in multiple dimensions. It encompasses the fulfillment of prophecy, the active obedience to Christ's law, the practical supplying of needs within the community of believers, and the grim completion of sin. Through its varied uses, it illustrates key aspects of Christian duty, divine purpose, and the consequences of human action.
TRV