The Greek word parotrýnō, represented by G3951, is defined as to urge along or stimulate to hostility. It is formed from the words παρά and another term meaning "to spur." It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, signifying a very specific and targeted meaning of inciting others to action.
The single biblical use of G3951 occurs in the book of Acts. In this context, it describes the actions of Jews in Antioch who opposed the ministry of Paul and Barnabas. They did not act alone but stirred up influential people within the city, including "the devout and honourable women" and "the chief men," to generate hostility against the apostles. This incitement successfully led to persecution and resulted in Paul and Barnabas being driven out of the region Acts 13:50.
Several related words in the immediate context of Acts 13:50 help clarify the meaning and consequence of this "stirring up":
- G1892 epegeírō (to rouse upon, i.e. (figuratively) to excite against): This word appears alongside G3951 to describe how the opposition raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas Acts 13:50.
- G1375 diōgmós (persecution): This is the direct outcome of the incitement. The act of "stirring up" was done for the purpose of creating persecution Acts 13:50. This aligns with Paul's later reflections on the many persecutions he endured for his faith 2 Timothy 3:11.
- G1544 ekbállō (to eject... expel): This word describes the final result of the hostility. After being persecuted, Paul and Barnabas were expelled from the area, showing the full effect of the initial incitement Acts 13:50.
The theological weight of G3951 is found in its precise depiction of how opposition to the gospel can be manufactured.
- A Catalyst for Conflict: The word demonstrates a key tactic used against the early church: turning a community against the apostles by provoking influential citizens. The "stirring up" is the trigger that leads directly to organized opposition.
- Indirect Opposition: Rather than direct confrontation, G3951 illustrates the strategy of using others as instruments of hostility. In Acts, the Jews leveraged the social standing of the city's elite to achieve their goals against Paul and Barnabas Acts 13:50.
- The Source of Persecution: The term pinpoints the specific action that ignites persecution. The narrative shows a clear sequence: incitement G3951 leads to raised persecution G1892 and eventual expulsion G1544, all detailed within a single verse Acts 13:50.
In summary, G3951 is a specific and potent word used once in Scripture to define the act of goading others into hostile action. It is not just about disagreement, but about the deliberate stimulation of aggression. Its singular appearance in Acts 13:50 provides a vivid and focused example of how opposition to the gospel was strategically organized, making it a clear illustration of the challenges faced by the early apostles.
TRV