### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb prostássō (G4367) is a compound word derived from πρός (pros), meaning "to, toward, in the direction of," and τάσσω (tássō, `{{G5021}}`), meaning "to arrange, to set in order, to appoint." The literal sense of prostássō therefore implies "to arrange or set something *towards* a particular end or recipient." This foundational meaning carries into its more common usage in the New Testament, where it signifies the act of giving a direct, authoritative instruction or command. It means "to enjoin," "to bid," or "to command." The preposition πρός adds a nuance of direction or purpose to the command, indicating that the order is specifically given for a particular action or outcome, often by someone in a position of authority. It is not merely a general decree, but a specific directive that is to be followed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
prostássō appears in the New Testament primarily in the Gospels and the book of Acts, consistently conveying the idea of an authoritative command, whether human or divine.
* In [[Matthew 8:4]], [[Mark 1:44]], and [[Luke 5:14]], Jesus commands the healed leper to show himself to the priest and offer the gift "as Moses **commanded** (προσέταξεν)." This refers to the specific, divinely-instituted regulations of the Mosaic Law concerning the purification of lepers (e.g., [[Leviticus 14:1-32]]). Here, prostássō emphasizes the precise nature of the established divine injunctions.
* In [[Matthew 17:9]] and [[Mark 9:9]], following the Transfiguration, Jesus **commanded** (προσέταξεν) His disciples not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. This demonstrates Jesus' direct, specific, and authoritative control over the timing and revelation of spiritual truths. It is a clear exercise of His divine prerogative.
* In [[Acts 10:33]], Cornelius, speaking to Peter, states, "Now therefore we are all here present before God, to hear all things that are **commanded** (προστεταγμένα) you by God." This highlights the expectation that Peter, as an apostle, would convey divine commands.
* Later, in [[Acts 10:48]], Peter himself **commanded** (προσέταξεν) those in Cornelius's household to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. This illustrates the delegated authority of the apostles to issue commands in accordance with God's will and the commission given to them.
* In [[Acts 17:26]], during his sermon on Mars Hill, Paul declares that God "determined the times **set** (προστεταγμένους) and the boundaries of their dwelling." Here, the word is used in a passive perfect participle, indicating a divinely established and fixed arrangement or decree concerning the nations. This underscores God's sovereign ordering of human history and geography.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G5021}}` τάσσω (tássō):** The root word, meaning "to arrange, appoint, order." prostássō adds the nuance of direction or specific application to the command.
* **`{{G2002}}` ἐπιτάσσω (epitássō):** "To command, order, give orders to." This word is very close in meaning and often appears in similar contexts (e.g., Jesus commanding demons or the winds). While closely related, prostássō may carry a slightly stronger emphasis on the directed, specific nature of the command, whereas epitássō might highlight the authority *over* something.
* **`{{G1299}}` διατάσσω (diatássō):** "To arrange thoroughly, prescribe, command, appoint." This word often suggests a more comprehensive or detailed arrangement, such as regulations or ordinances (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 7:17]]).
* **`{{G2753}}` κελεύω (keleuō):** "To command, order, bid." A more general term for commanding, often used in various contexts.
* **`{{G1781}}` ἐντολή (entolē):** "Commandment, precept." This is the noun form, referring to the *content* of a command, often a divine law or precept. prostássō is the *act* of giving such a command.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The use of prostássō in relation to God's actions (e.g., [[Acts 17:26]]) highlights His absolute authority and purposeful ordering of creation and human affairs.
* **Apostolic Authority:** When apostles prostássō (e.g., [[Acts 10:48]]), it signifies their role as divinely appointed messengers and administrators of God's will.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of prostássō lies in its consistent portrayal of authoritative command, particularly divine authority, and the specific nature of the directives issued.
1. **God's Sovereign Decree:** When God prostássō, it speaks to His deliberate, purposeful, and unchangeable ordering of creation, history, and the parameters of human existence. [[Acts 17:26]] profoundly illustrates God's sovereign hand in establishing the very framework of human dwelling and historical progression. His commands are not arbitrary but are expressions of His wise and perfect will.
2. **The Authority of Christ:** Jesus' use of prostássō (e.g., [[Matthew 17:9]]) underscores His inherent divine authority. He does not merely advise or suggest; He commands with the full weight of His divine person. His commands are to be obeyed precisely because they originate from Him, the Son of God.
3. **Continuity of Divine Law:** The reference to "Moses **commanded** (προσέταξεν)" in the healing narratives ([[Matthew 8:4]], etc.) demonstrates the continuity of God's authoritative commands from the Old Covenant to the New. While the New Covenant brings fulfillment and new revelation, it does not nullify the divine origin and authority of earlier commands.
4. **Basis for Obedience:** The word inherently carries the expectation of obedience. What is prostássō by God or His authorized representatives is meant to be carried out. It highlights the call to submission and faithfulness in response to divine directives.
5. **Delegated Apostolic Authority:** The instances in Acts ([[Acts 10:33]], [[Acts 10:48]]) reveal that God's commands can be mediated through His chosen servants. The apostles, acting under divine commission, possess the authority to prostássō in matters pertaining to the church and the spread of the Gospel, thereby extending God's authoritative will into specific situations.
### Summary
prostássō (G4367) is a Greek verb meaning "to arrange towards," which extends to "to enjoin, bid, or command." Rooted in πρός (to) and τάσσω (to arrange), it conveys the sense of a direct, purposeful, and authoritative instruction. Its occurrences in the New Testament consistently highlight the exercise of divine authority. It reveals God's sovereign will in establishing the very parameters of human existence ([[Acts 17:26]]) and underscores the inherent authority of Jesus Christ, who issues precise commands to His disciples ([[Matthew 17:9]]). Furthermore, it affirms the continuity of God's commands from the Mosaic Law ([[Matthew 8:4]]) and demonstrates the delegated authority of the apostles to convey and implement divine directives ([[Acts 10:48]]). The word thus powerfully conveys the concept of a divine will that is not merely expressed but authoritatively enjoined, demanding and enabling obedience from those who hear.
TRV