The Greek word periphérō, represented by G4064, is defined as to "convey around, i.e. transport hither and thither:--bear (carry) about." It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. The word's usage spans from the literal, physical act of carrying an object or person to a powerful figurative depiction of being influenced and moved by spiritual or intellectual forces.
In scripture, G4064 is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Its most direct, physical meaning is seen in Mark's gospel, where people began to carry about in beds those who were sick to bring them to Jesus Mark 6:55. Figuratively, the term serves as a potent warning against spiritual instability. Believers are exhorted not to be like children, carried about with every wind of doctrine Ephesians 4:14, and similarly warned, "Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines" Hebrews 13:9. This imagery is further extended in Jude, which describes false teachers as clouds without water, carried about of winds Jude 1:12. In a unique theological application, the word describes the apostle Paul's experience of always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus 2 Corinthians 4:10.
Several related words clarify the contexts in which G4064 is used:
- G1319 didaskalía (instruction): This word for doctrine or teaching is what believers are warned not to be carried about by. Its instability is compared to a "wind" that can toss immature believers to and fro Ephesians 4:14.
- G417 ánemos (wind): This term is the agent of the figurative "carrying about," representing the shifting and unreliable nature of false teachings that can unsettle believers (Ephesians 4:14, Jude 1:12).
- G2895 krábbatos (bed): In its literal sense, G4064 is used to describe carrying the sick on these mattresses, highlighting an act of physical transport and care for those in need Mark 6:55.
The theological weight of G4064 is primarily seen in its contrast between stability and instability.
- Warning Against Doctrinal Instability: The word is repeatedly used to caution against spiritual immaturity. Being "carried about with" false doctrines is a mark of being like children, susceptible to the "sleight of men" Ephesians 4:14 rather than being established in grace Hebrews 13:9. Jude uses this idea to characterize false teachers as fundamentally unstable and fruitless Jude 1:12.
- Embodiment of Christ's Sufferings: The phrase "bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus" presents a profound theological concept 2 Corinthians 4:10. It signifies a believer's constant, active participation in the sufferings of Christ, which serves the ultimate purpose of making the life of Jesus manifest in them.
- Compassionate Ministry in Action: The literal act of carrying the sick demonstrates a tangible, mobile response to human suffering. It shows ministry not as a static event but as an active effort to bring people to Jesus for healing Mark 6:55.
In summary, G4064 periphérō is a dynamic word that conveys movement, both literal and figurative. It describes the compassionate act of transporting the sick, the profound spiritual discipline of bearing Christ's dying in one's own body, and, most frequently, serves as a solemn warning. Scripture uses it to caution against being aimlessly carried about by unstable doctrines, contrasting this spiritual vulnerability with the stability that comes from a heart established by grace. The word powerfully illustrates the difference between being purposefully directed and being helplessly transported.
TRV