from πρό and πέμπω; to send forward, i.e. escort or aid in travel:--accompany, bring (forward) on journey (way), conduct forth.
Transliteration:propémpō
Pronunciation:prop-em'-po
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb προπέμπω (propémpō), `{{G4311}}`, is a compound word formed from the preposition πρό (pro), `{{G4253}}`, meaning "before" or "forward," and the verb πέμπω (pempō), `{{G3992}}`, meaning "to send." The combination thus literally signifies "to send forward" or "to send ahead." This core meaning expands semantically to encompass several related actions, all centered around facilitating someone's journey. Its primary denotation is to "escort," "accompany," or "conduct" someone on their way, often implying a degree of assistance, provision, or honor. It can also mean to "send off" or "set forth" on a journey, providing what is necessary for the trip. The underlying sense is one of active support and care for a traveler, ensuring their safe and well-equipped departure or progress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb προπέμπω (propémpō), `{{G4311}}`, appears eight times in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles and the book of Acts, consistently reflecting its core meaning of assisting or accompanying travelers.
In Acts, it describes the church's action in sending off missionaries:
* In [[Acts 15:3]], the church in Antioch "sent them on their way" (προπεμφθέντες) to Jerusalem, indicating an official and supportive send-off for Paul and Barnabas.
* In [[Acts 20:38]], the Ephesian elders "accompanied him" (προέπεμπον) to the ship when Paul departed, a poignant scene demonstrating their affection and respect.
* In [[Acts 21:5]], the disciples at Tyre "accompanied us on our way" (προέπεμπον) with their wives and children, showing a communal farewell extending to the shore.
Paul uses the term in his letters to express his desire to be assisted or to assist others in their journeys:
* In [[Romans 15:24]], Paul hopes that after visiting Rome, the believers there will "help me on my journey" (προπεμφθῆναι) to Spain, implying practical and financial support for his missionary travels.
* In [[1 Corinthians 16:6]], Paul expresses his hope that the Corinthians will "help me on my journey" (προπέμψητε) wherever he goes, again indicating a need for practical assistance.
* In [[1 Corinthians 16:11]], he instructs them to "send him on his way in peace" (προπέμψατε αὐτὸν ἐν εἰρήνῃ) concerning Timothy, emphasizing a peaceful and supportive departure.
* In [[2 Corinthians 1:16]], Paul states his previous intention to visit Corinth and then have them "help me on my journey" (προπεμφθῆναι) to Macedonia, reiterating his expectation of their practical aid.
* In [[Titus 3:13]], Paul instructs Titus to "diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way" (προπέμψον), ensuring they lack nothing for their journey, highlighting the practical aspect of Christian hospitality and support for fellow workers.
In each instance, προπέμπω signifies a practical, active demonstration of care, hospitality, and solidarity, whether for missionaries, apostles, or fellow believers. It is never a passive act but an intentional effort to facilitate travel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of προπέμπω (propémpō), `{{G4311}}`, includes several related Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **πέμπω (pempō)**, `{{G3992}}`: The root verb, meaning "to send." While προπέμπω specifies *how* one is sent (forward, with assistance), πέμπω is the general act of sending.
* **ἀποστέλλω (apostellō)**, `{{G649}}`: "To send away," particularly with a commission or authority, from which we get "apostle." While similar in the act of sending, ἀποστέλλω emphasizes the *purpose* and *authority* of the sending, whereas προπέμπω focuses on the *manner* of departure and the *support* provided.
* **συνοδεύω (synodeuō)**, `{{G4927}}`: "To journey with," "to accompany." This term emphasizes the act of traveling *together* throughout a journey, while προπέμπω often focuses on the initial send-off or providing aid for the journey, though it can also imply accompanying for a portion of the way.
* **φιλοξενία (philoxenia)**, `{{G5381}}`: "Love of strangers," or "hospitality." The act of προπέμπω is a concrete expression of φιλοξενία, demonstrating practical care and provision for travelers, especially those engaged in ministry.
* **Partnership in the Gospel:** The repeated use of προπέμπω in relation to Paul's missionary journeys and his expectation of support highlights the concept of partnership in the spread of the Gospel. Those who "send forward" or "help on the way" are actively participating in the mission, even if they do not physically travel themselves.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of προπέμπω (propémpō), `{{G4311}}`, lies in its embodiment of practical Christian love, hospitality, and partnership in ministry. It demonstrates that Christian fellowship extends beyond mere verbal encouragement to tangible acts of support.
1. **Practical Love and Hospitality:** The act of "sending forward" or "helping on the way" is a concrete manifestation of the command to love one's neighbor and to practice hospitality (cf. [[Romans 12:13]], [[Hebrews 13:2]]). It reflects a genuine concern for the well-being and success of fellow believers, especially those undertaking arduous journeys for the sake of the Gospel.
2. **Support for Ministry:** In the context of the early church, traveling was difficult and dangerous. Providing aid, provisions, and escort for missionaries and apostles was crucial for their effectiveness. Thus, προπέμπω underscores the vital role of the local church in supporting itinerant ministers, enabling them to fulfill their calling. This support is not merely logistical but is an act of spiritual partnership.
3. **Partnership in the Gospel:** When Paul asks the Romans or Corinthians to "help him on his journey," he is inviting them to share in the work of the Gospel. Their practical assistance makes his missionary endeavors possible, making them co-laborers in the spread of the Good News. This concept is foundational to understanding the interdependence within the body of Christ.
4. **Community and Solidarity:** The scenes in Acts where entire communities "send off" or "accompany" Paul illustrate a deep sense of solidarity and communal investment in the mission. It signifies that the work of God is a corporate endeavor, supported by the collective care and resources of the church.
### Summary
προπέμπω (propémpō), `{{G4311}}`, is a verb that signifies "to send forward," "to escort," or "to aid in travel." Its core meaning encompasses the active provision of support, assistance, and accompaniment for individuals embarking on or continuing a journey. In the New Testament, particularly in Acts and Paul's epistles, it consistently describes the practical assistance rendered by believers to missionaries, apostles, and fellow workers. This assistance often involved providing provisions, financial aid, or simply accompanying them for a portion of their journey as a sign of respect and care. The theological import of προπέμπω is profound, highlighting practical Christian love, hospitality, and the essential partnership between local churches and itinerant ministers in the advancement of the Gospel. It underscores the truth that the work of God is a shared endeavor, where tangible acts of support are vital expressions of faith and solidarity within the body of Christ.
TRV