### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G3923 (παρεισφέρω, *pareisphérō*) is a compound word derived from the preposition παρά (para), meaning "alongside," "beside," or "in addition to," and the verb εἰσφέρω (eisphérō), meaning "to bring in" or "to introduce." The root φέρω (pherō, `{{G5342}}`) signifies "to bear" or "to carry," while εἰσ (eis) denotes "into."
Therefore, the core meaning of παρεισφέρω is "to bring in alongside," "to introduce in addition," or "to contribute simultaneously." It carries the nuance of adding something to what is already present or being introduced, often implying a supplementary or concurrent contribution. Unlike a simple "giving," it emphasizes the manner of introduction—as something brought in to stand beside, or to augment, another primary element. The action is often deliberate and active, reflecting a conscious effort to introduce or supply something valuable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb παρεισφέρω occurs only once in the New Testament, found in [[2 Peter 1:5]]. This singular occurrence lends significant weight to its specific context:
"For this very reason, making every effort, παρεισενέγκαντες (having brought in alongside) ἐπιχορηγήσατε (supply) in your faith virtue, and in your virtue knowledge..." (my translation, highlighting the participles).
The full verse in the ESV reads: "For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge..."
In this passage, the aorist active participle παρεισενέγκαντες (from παρεισφέρω) is used in conjunction with the imperative ἐπιχορηγήσατε (epichorēgēsate, `{{G2023}}`, "supply" or "provide abundantly"). Peter is exhorting believers to an active and strenuous effort (σπουδὴν πᾶσαν, "all diligence," "every effort") to introduce or contribute a series of virtues to their faith. The use of παρεισφέρω here highlights that these virtues (virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, love) are not replacing faith, but are being diligently brought in *alongside* faith, building upon it and complementing it.
The context of [[2 Peter 1:3-4]] establishes that God's divine power has already "granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence." In light of this divine provision and the "precious and magnificent promises," believers are called to παρεισφέρω their effort. This signifies a human responsibility to actively cultivate spiritual qualities that flow from and are built upon the divine foundation. The "alongside" aspect underscores that these virtues are not external additions but integral developments that demonstrate and strengthen genuine faith, leading to a fruitful and effective knowledge of Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding παρεισφέρω is enhanced by examining its constituent parts and related terms:
* παρά (para, `{{G3844}}`): The preposition "alongside," which gives παρεισφέρω its unique nuance of addition or accompaniment rather than mere introduction.
* εἰσφέρω (eisphérō, `{{G1533}}`): "To bring in," "to carry in." This base verb describes the act of bringing something from outside to inside.
* φέρω (pherō, `{{G5342}}`): The fundamental verb "to bear," "to carry," indicating the action of conveying.
* ἐπιχορηγέω (epichorēgeō, `{{G2023}}`): "To supply," "to provide abundantly." This verb is used in parallel with παρεισφέρω in [[2 Peter 1:5]], emphasizing the generous and complete supply of these virtues. While παρεισφέρω speaks to the effort of introducing, ἐπιχορηγέω speaks to the full provision or outflow.
* Concepts of spiritual growth, sanctification, and Christian maturity are intrinsically linked. The passage describes a progressive development of character, where each virtue is added "alongside" the previous one, forming a chain of spiritual excellence.
* The emphasis on "diligence" (σπουδή, spoudē, `{{G4710}}`) highlights the active, intentional effort required from the believer in this process, contrasting with passive reception.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of παρεισφέρω in [[2 Peter 1:5]] is profoundly significant for understanding the dynamics of Christian living and sanctification. It underscores the active, volitional role of the believer in their spiritual development, even as it acknowledges the foundational work of divine grace.
1. **Human Responsibility in Sanctification:** While God has provided "everything pertaining to life and godliness" ([[2 Peter 1:3]]), believers are not passive recipients. παρεισφέρω demands a diligent, strenuous effort to "bring in alongside" virtues. This highlights the synergistic relationship between divine enablement and human response in the process of becoming more like Christ. It is a call to active participation in one's own spiritual growth.
2. **Progressive Nature of Maturity:** The word implies a continuous, additive process. Virtues are not received all at once but are cultivated and introduced in a sequence, building upon faith as the foundation. This speaks to the journey of discipleship, where maturity is a progressive unfolding of character.
3. **Complementary Virtues:** The "alongside" aspect of παρεισφέρω emphasizes that these virtues are not alternatives to faith, but necessary complements that demonstrate the authenticity and vitality of faith. They are the visible fruit of a genuine relationship with Christ, preventing one from being "useless or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ" ([[2 Peter 1:8]]).
4. **Purposeful Effort:** The term conveys a sense of purpose and intentionality. The believer is not merely waiting for spiritual growth to happen, but actively and deliberately contributing to it through effort and discipline.
### Summary
G3923 (παρεισφέρω, *pareisphérō*) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to bring in alongside," "to introduce in addition," or "to contribute simultaneously." Its singular appearance in [[2 Peter 1:5]] is pivotal, emphasizing the believer's active and diligent responsibility to cultivate spiritual virtues. In light of God's abundant provision, believers are called to make every effort to παρεισφέρω qualities like virtue, knowledge, and love, adding them to their faith. This word underscores the dynamic interplay between divine grace and human effort in the journey of sanctification, highlighting the progressive, purposeful, and complementary nature of Christian maturity. It is a call to actively build upon the foundation of faith, demonstrating its reality through a life rich in godly character.
TRV