### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Parmenâs**, represented by `{{G3937}}`, means **constant** and identifies a specific Christian in the early church. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its sole mention highly specific.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only appearance of **Parmenâs** is in the list of seven men chosen by the "whole multitude" to serve the church [[Acts 6:5]]. He is named alongside Stephen, a man described as being "full of faith and of the Holy Ghost," as well as Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, and Nicolas. This selection was made to appoint qualified men over a specific business within the growing community of believers [[Acts 6:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words, used to describe the qualities of the group **Parmenâs** was chosen with, provide additional context:
* `{{G4134}}` **plḗrēs**: Defined as "replete, or covered over; by analogy, complete." This quality of being **full** was a key requirement for the chosen men [[Acts 6:3]] and was specifically attributed to Stephen [[Acts 6:5]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis**: Meaning "persuasion... reliance upon Christ for salvation... constancy in such profession." Stephen was noted for his **faith**, a virtue described as the substance of things hoped for and essential for pleasing God ([[Hebrews 11:1]], [[Hebrews 11:6]]).
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma**: Defined as "a current of air... a spirit... the Holy Spirit." Being full of the Holy **Ghost** was a primary qualification for Stephen and the others chosen for service [[Acts 6:5]], signifying divine guidance and empowerment.
### Theological Significance
While **Parmenâs** is not a central figure, his inclusion in this group carries theological weight regarding church leadership and service.
* **Service Based on Spiritual Character:** The selection of **Parmenâs** and the other six was not based on worldly status but on spiritual maturity. The description of Stephen as "full of faith and of the Holy Ghost" establishes the standard for the entire group, highlighting that leadership is a matter of godly character [[Acts 6:5]].
* **The Foundation of Faith:** The emphasis on **faith** `{{G4102}}` for those serving demonstrates that a deep "reliance upon Christ for salvation" is non-negotiable. It is through faith that one is saved [[Ephesians 2:8]] and enabled to carry out God's work.
* **Empowerment by the Holy Ghost:** Being **full** `{{G4134}}` of the Holy **Ghost** `{{G4151}}` is presented as a prerequisite for the task [[Acts 6:3]]. This shows that effective Christian service is not accomplished by human strength but by the power of the Spirit given by God [[Acts 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **Parmenâs** `{{G3937}}` is defined by his singular appearance in a pivotal moment of the early church. Though mentioned only by name, he is forever associated with a select group of men chosen for their exemplary spiritual qualities. His inclusion underscores the principle that service in the church is rooted in being **full** `{{G4134}}` of **faith** `{{G4102}}` and the Holy **Ghost** `{{G4151}}`, a standard set forth in the New Testament. The name **Parmenâs** itself, meaning "constant," reflects the steadfast character required for such a foundational role.
TRV