from προτίθεμαι; a setting forth, i.e. (figuratively) proposal (intention); specially, the show-bread (in the Temple) as exposed before God:--purpose, shew(-bread).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **próthesis**, represented by `{{G4286}}`, describes a setting forth. This term appears **12 times** in **12 unique verses** and carries a dual meaning. Figuratively, it refers to a proposal or intention, often God's divine **purpose**. In a special, literal sense, it denotes the **shew-bread** set forth in the Temple as an offering before God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4286}}` is used in two primary contexts. Theologically, it defines God's sovereign plan for salvation, which is established "according to his **purpose**" [[Romans 8:28]]. This divine intention is the basis for the believer's calling and inheritance, not based on human effort but on God's own will and election ([[Romans 9:11]], [[2 Timothy 1:9]]). The second usage is literal, referring to the "shewbread" `{{G740}}{{G4286}}` that David unlawfully ate ([[Matthew 12:4]], [[Mark 2:26]]) and that was kept in the tabernacle [[Hebrews 9:2]]. The word can also describe a human intention, such as the disciples' plan to sail by Crete [[Acts 27:13]] or the believers' resolve to "cleave unto the Lord" with "**purpose** of heart" [[Acts 11:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4286}}`:
* `{{G1012}}` **boulḗ** (counsel, will): This word for volition is directly linked to God's purpose. He works all things according to "the **counsel** of his own will" [[Ephesians 1:11]], showing that His purpose is a result of His deliberate counsel.
* `{{G1589}}` **eklogḗ** (election): This term for divine selection is explicitly connected to God's purpose, which stands "according to **election**" [[Romans 9:11]], emphasizing that His plan is based on His sovereign choice.
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (work, deed): This word is often used in contrast to God's purpose. Believers are saved "not according to our **works**, but according to his own purpose" [[2 Timothy 1:9]], highlighting that salvation is a gift, not an achievement.
* `{{G740}}` **ártos** (bread): This word appears alongside `{{G4286}}` in every instance where it refers to the **shewbread**, the sacred loaves set out in the house of God [[Hebrews 9:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4286}}` is centered on the nature of God's sovereignty and grace.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word establishes that God has an "eternal **purpose** which he purposed in Christ Jesus" [[Ephesians 3:11]]. This plan is predetermined and works through all things for the good of those called by Him ([[Romans 8:28]], [[Ephesians 1:11]]).
* **Purpose over Works:** Scripture uses `{{G4286}}` to make a clear distinction between God's gracious plan and human merit. The "purpose of God according to election" stands firm, "not of **works**, but of him that calleth" [[Romans 9:11]].
* **Human Alignment with Divine Purpose:** While God's purpose is supreme, believers are called to align their own intentions with His. Paul presents his own "**purpose**" as an example to follow [[2 Timothy 3:10]], and believers are exhorted to follow the Lord with "**purpose** of heart" [[Acts 11:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4286}}` bridges the abstract concept of God's eternal plan with tangible realities. It defines the unshakeable foundation of a believer's calling, which is based not on works but on the divine **purpose** and grace given in Christ Jesus [[2 Timothy 1:9]]. Simultaneously, it refers to the literal **shew-bread** set before God, a physical act of "setting forth" that reflects the deeper spiritual truth of a life and plan laid out before Him.
TRV