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.
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.
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.
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.
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