The Greek word parágō, represented by G3855, means to pass by or pass away. It is derived from words meaning "to lead near" and is used to describe going along or departing. This word appears 10 times in 10 unique verses in the Bible. Its use conveys a sense of movement, either of a person physically moving past a location or of a concept, like the world or darkness, coming to an end.
In the Gospels, G3855 is frequently used to describe Jesus's movements, which often lead to significant events. For example, as Jesus passed by, he saw and called Levi (Matthew) to follow him Mark 2:14, and he saw a man who was blind from birth, leading to his healing John 9:1. In other instances, blind men cried out for mercy upon hearing that Jesus passed by Matthew 20:30. The word is also used to describe the transient nature of the world, as in the declaration that "the world passeth away, and the lust thereof" 1 John 2:17 and "the fashion of this world passeth away" 1 Corinthians 7:31.
Several related words clarify the context and implications of G3855:
- G1330 diérchomai (to traverse): This word also signifies movement through or past a place. It is used to describe how Jesus "went about doing good" Acts 10:38 and how death passed upon all men Romans 5:12.
- G1492 eídō (to see): This verb is often paired with G3855, indicating that the act of passing by created an opportunity for observation and interaction. For instance, as Jesus passed forth, he saw Matthew at the receipt of custom Matthew 9:9.
- G190 akolouthéō (to follow): This word frequently describes the response to Jesus passing by and issuing a call. After Jesus saw Matthew and said "Follow me," Matthew arose and followed him Matthew 9:9.
The theological weight of G3855 is evident in its dual application to both divine action and worldly impermanence.
- Impermanence of the World: The word underscores the temporary nature of the current world order. John states that "the world passeth away, and the lust thereof" in contrast to the one who does God's will and abides forever 1 John 2:17. Similarly, he declares that "the darkness is past" because the true light now shineth 1 John 2:8.
- Divine Initiative in Salvation: Jesus "passing by" is portrayed as a moment of sovereign encounter. It is not a chance event, but a divine appointment where Christ brings a call to discipleship Matthew 9:9, healing John 9:1, or an opportunity for faith to be expressed Matthew 20:30.
- Christ's Active Mission: The use of G3855 to describe Jesus's movements highlights his active and purposeful mission. While the world system "passeth away" passively, Christ actively passes by to engage with humanity, call followers, and enact the will of the Father.
In summary, G3855 parágō captures a dynamic of movement that carries significant theological weight. It simultaneously describes the fading, transient nature of the world and its desires, while also depicting the purposeful, redemptive movement of Jesus through that same world. The act of "passing by" becomes the context for divine calls, miraculous healing, and pivotal encounters, demonstrating that Christ's physical path on earth was an active fulfillment of his saving mission.
TRV