The Greek word periágō, represented by G4013, means to take or walk around, often with a specific purpose. It is derived from περί (around) and ἄγω (to lead). It appears 6 times in 6 unique verses. The word's usage varies, encompassing actions like conducting an itinerant ministry, leading a companion, or traversing a wide area for a particular goal.
In the New Testament, G4013 is frequently used to describe the nature of Jesus's ministry. The Gospels of Matthew and Mark state that Jesus went about all Galilee and the surrounding villages, actively bringing his work to the people (Matthew 4:23, Mark 6:6). This movement was not aimless; it was for the express purpose of teaching in synagogues, preaching the gospel, and healing the sick Matthew 9:35. The word is also used by the Apostle Paul to assert his right to lead about a sister or a wife, just as other apostles did 1 Corinthians 9:5. In a negative context, Jesus uses the term to condemn the Pharisees who compass sea and land just to make a single convert Matthew 23:15.
Several related words help clarify the purpose behind the movement described by G4013:
- G1321 didáskō (to teach): This word is consistently paired with G4013 to show that a primary reason for Jesus's traveling was to instruct the people in the synagogues and villages (Matthew 4:23, Mark 6:6).
- G2784 kērýssō (to herald...especially divine truth): Used alongside G4013, this highlights that Jesus's ministry involved proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom as he moved from place to place Matthew 9:35.
- G2323 therapeúō (to relieve (of disease)): This completes the three-fold description of Jesus's itinerant work, showing that as He went about, He was also actively healing all manner of sickness Matthew 4:23.
- G2212 zētéō (to seek): This is used in the account of Elymas the sorcerer who, after being struck blind, went about seeking someone to lead him by the hand Acts 13:11.
The theological weight of G4013 is significant as it helps define the character of ministry and mission.
- The Itinerant Model: The use of G4013 to describe Jesus's ministry establishes a pattern of proactively going to where the people are. His work was not confined to one location but was mobile and accessible Matthew 9:35.
- Purposeful Action: The word is consistently linked to a clear objective. Jesus went about to teach, preach, and heal Matthew 4:23. The Pharisees compass land and sea to make a proselyte Matthew 23:15. This implies that Christian movement should be intentional and mission-focused.
- Apostolic Right: Paul's use of the term in the context of "leading about" a wife affirms the legitimacy of having a family and earthly companionship while engaged in ministerial travel 1 Corinthians 9:5.
- Physical Helplessness: The image of the blind sorcerer who went about seeking a guide illustrates a state of disorientation and dependence, a physical picture of a spiritual condition Acts 13:11.
In summary, G4013 is more than a simple verb of motion. It denotes purposeful travel and establishes a key aspect of Jesus's ministry. It paints a picture of a God who does not wait to be sought but actively goes out to teach, proclaim, and heal. Whether describing the divine mission of Jesus, the apostolic right of Paul, or the misguided zeal of the Pharisees, the word emphasizes that movement in the biblical narrative is rarely without a significant goal.
TRV