The Greek particle per, represented by G4007, is an enclitic word used to signify emphasis, thoroughness, or abundance. Its definition includes meanings such as much, very, or ever. Appearing just 3 times in 3 unique verses, its usage in the Bible is rare but serves to underscore the conditions to which it is attached.
All occurrences of G4007 are found in the book of Hebrews, where it consistently adds weight to a conditional "if" statement. In Hebrews 3:6, it connects our status as Christ's house G3624 to the condition of holding fast our confidence G3954 and hope G1680. Similarly, in Hebrews 3:14, becoming partakers G3353 of Christ G5547 is contingent on holding the beginning G746 of our confidence G5287 firm to the end G5056. A different aspect is seen in Hebrews 6:3, where a future action is made dependent on divine will: "And this will we do G4160, if God G2316 permit G2010."
Several related words clarify the context of perseverance and dependence where G4007 is used:
- G2722 katéchō (to hold fast): This verb describes the action required in the conditional statements of Hebrews 3, meaning to have, hold fast, or retain something securely (Hebrews 3:6, Hebrews 3:14).
- G949 bébaios (firm, stedfast, sure): This adjective describes the necessary quality of the believer's confidence and hope, indicating it must be stable and sure (Hebrews 3:6, Hebrews 3:14).
- G2010 epitrépō (to allow, permit): This word forms the basis of the condition in Hebrews 6:3, showing that human action is ultimately subject to what God permits or allows.
The theological weight of G4007 is tied to its role in emphasizing crucial spiritual conditions.
- Conditional Assurance: The particle highlights that assurance is linked to active faith. Believers are confirmed as Christ's house G3624 and partakers G3353 of Him if they maintain their confession and hope (Hebrews 3:6, Hebrews 3:14).
- Endurance to the End: Its use underscores the biblical theme of perseverance. The emphasis is on holding confidence G5287 stedfast G949 "unto the end" G5056, showing that salvation involves a continuing, active trust Hebrews 3:14.
- Dependence on God: In Hebrews 6:3, the particle reinforces the believer's ultimate dependence on God's sovereignty. The commitment to "do this" is valid only "if God G2316 permit G2010," placing human effort within the framework of divine will.
In summary, G4007 per is a particle that adds significant emphasis to the conditional clauses in which it appears. Though used sparingly, its presence in Hebrews serves to intensify the connection between a believer's enduring faith and their spiritual identity. It highlights the necessity of holding fast to one's hope and confidence while also acknowledging that all human endeavors are ultimately dependent on God's permission. This small word powerfully reinforces the theological principles of perseverance and divine sovereignty.
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