### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parenochléō**, represented by `{{G3926}}`, is defined as to harass further, i.e. annoy:--trouble. It is formed from the words παρά and ἐνοχλέω. According to usage statistics, it appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a highly specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3926}}` is in the context of the Jerusalem Council's decision regarding Gentile believers. In [[Acts 15:19]], the sentence is given that the church should not **trouble** those from among the Gentiles `{{G1484}}` who are turned `{{G1994}}` to God `{{G2316}}`. The word captures the essence of this pivotal judgment: to avoid placing unnecessary burdens or causing annoyance for new, non-Jewish converts.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context in [[Acts 15:19]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G1484}}` **éthnos** (a race... a foreign (non-Jewish) one... Gentile, heathen, nation, people): This word identifies the group that should not be troubled. It is used broadly for nations, as in the command to teach all **nations** [[Matthew 28:19]], and specifically for the Gentiles who receive the mystery of Christ [[Colossians 1:27]].
* `{{G1994}}` **epistréphō** (to revert (literally, figuratively or morally)... convert, (re-)turn (about, again)): This describes the action of the Gentiles. The term signifies a fundamental change of direction, such as turning from darkness to light [[Acts 26:18]] or being **converted** to strengthen others [[Luke 22:32]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially)... condemn, punish... sentence to, think): This word establishes the authority of the statement in [[Acts 15:19]] ("my sentence is"). It can mean to deliver a formal **sentence** or to make a personal judgment, as in the admonition not to **judge** others [[Matthew 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3926}}` is concentrated in its single, decisive use.
* **Inclusion and Grace:** The command not to **trouble** `{{G3926}}` Gentile believers is a foundational statement on grace. It establishes that turning `{{G1994}}` to God `{{G2316}}` is the essential matter, and human-made obstacles should not be added for those from other nations `{{G1484}}` [[Acts 15:19]].
* **Focus on Conversion:** The context prioritizes the act of turning to God above all else. The decision not to harass `{{G3926}}` them underscores that the core of faith is a change of heart and allegiance, an idea reinforced in the call to **turn** to God and do works meet for repentance [[Acts 26:20]].
* **Righteous Judgment:** The apostolic sentence `{{G2919}}` is to remove a burden, not impose one. This use of authority models a leadership that facilitates access to God rather than complicating it, demonstrating a judgment that is liberating for those who were formerly considered outsiders [[Acts 15:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3926}}` is a rare but significant word whose meaning, "to harass further, i.e. annoy," is perfectly suited to its context. Its single use in [[Acts 15:19]] marks a critical turning point in the early church, defining the relationship between Jewish and Gentile believers. The decision not to **trouble** the Gentiles who had turned to God establishes a powerful precedent for a gospel of grace, free from unnecessary encumbrances, and highlights an apostolic leadership focused on inclusion rather than exclusion.
TRV