The Greek word párodos, represented by G3938, is a term for a way or route. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, indicating its specific and rare usage. The word literally refers to a by-road or a route.
The sole appearance of G3938 is in 1 Corinthians 16:7, where Paul describes his travel intentions. He states, "I will not see you now by the way," contrasting a brief, passing visit with his hope to stay for a longer period. In this context, párodos signifies a transient or incidental stop along a larger journey, a visit that is merely "on the way" to another destination.
Several words from its single scriptural context help clarify the meaning of a brief passing:
- G1961 epiménō (to stay over, i.e. remain): This word is used in direct contrast to a passing visit. Paul expresses his hope to remain for a longer time, rather than just seeing the Corinthians "by the way" 1 Corinthians 16:7.
- G1679 elpízō (to expect or confide): This word conveys Paul's hope or trust. He trusts that he will be able to have a more substantial visit, highlighting that a brief stop is not his desired outcome 1 Corinthians 16:7.
- G2309 thélō (to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas βούλομαι properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations), i.e. choose or prefer): Paul's statement "I will not see you now by the way" shows his active choice or preference against a fleeting encounter, setting the stage for his desire for a more meaningful stay 1 Corinthians 16:7.
While G3938 itself is not a major theological term, its use in context highlights important principles:
- Value of Fellowship: Paul's rejection of seeing the Corinthians "by the way" emphasizes a desire for deep, intentional fellowship over a superficial or hurried encounter. His hope is to "tarry a while with you" 1 Corinthians 16:7, showing the importance of spending meaningful time with fellow believers.
- Submission to God's Will: The entire plan is framed by the condition, "if the Lord permit" 1 Corinthians 16:7. This places human desires and travel plans, including the avoidance of a brief visit, under the sovereign authority of the Lord G2962.
- Purposeful Ministry: By contrasting a passing visit with a prolonged stay, the verse implies that effective ministry requires more than a brief stop. The use of párodos helps define the kind of interaction that is insufficient for the apostolic work of edifying the church.
In summary, G3938 is a specific term for a route or a passing way. Though it appears only once, its context in 1 Corinthians 16:7 is instructive. It is used to describe the type of brief, incidental visit that Paul actively seeks to avoid in his ministry. The word helps contrast a superficial encounter with the apostle's desire for intentional, meaningful fellowship with the church, a plan he humbly submits to the will of the Lord.
TRV