### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **protíthemai**, represented by `{{G4388}}`, means to place before, exhibit, or determine. It carries the idea of a deliberate plan or intention, translated as **purpose** or **set forth**. This word appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, highlighting its specific application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G4388}}` ranges from human intention to divine, sovereign will. In [[Romans 1:13]], Paul explains that he often **purposed** to visit the brethren in Rome to have some **fruit** `{{G2590}}` among them, but was hindered. In a profound theological context, God is the one who acts with purpose. God **purposed** his will according to his **good pleasure** `{{G2107}}` to make known the **mystery** `{{G3466}}` of that will [[Ephesians 1:9]]. Similarly, God **set forth** Jesus Christ to be a **propitiation** `{{G2435}}` to **declare** `{{G1732}}` His **righteousness** `{{G1343}}` [[Romans 3:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of God's purpose:
* `{{G2307}}` **thélēma** (will): This word refers to a determination or choice, often God's purpose or decree. It is the **will** of God that He **purposed** in Himself [[Ephesians 1:9]].
* `{{G2107}}` **eudokía** (good pleasure): Defined as satisfaction or delight, this word describes the nature of God's purpose, which originates from His own **good pleasure** [[Ephesians 1:9]].
* `{{G2435}}` **hilastḗrion** (propitiation): This is the object that God **set forth**—an atoning victim or mercyseat. It is what God purposed to display [[Romans 3:25]].
* `{{G1732}}` **éndeixis** (declare): Meaning an indication or proof, this shows the reason for God's action. He **set forth** Christ to **declare** His righteousness [[Romans 3:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4388}}` is centered on the nature of God's redemptive plan.
* **Sovereign Initiative:** The word shows that salvation originates with God. He is the one who **purposed** in himself [[Ephesians 1:9]] and **set forth** the means of atonement [[Romans 3:25]], not in response to human effort, but according to His own will.
* **Redemptive Focus:** God's purpose is explicitly tied to salvation. He **purposed** to reveal the **mystery** `{{G3466}}` of His will and to **set forth** Christ as a **propitiation** `{{G2435}}` for the **remission of sins** `{{G265}}` that are past [[Romans 3:25]].
* **Public Demonstration:** The definition "to place before" or "exhibit" indicates that God's purpose is not a hidden secret but a public declaration. He set forth Christ to openly **declare** His **righteousness** `{{G1343}}` to the world.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4388}}` is a powerful term that conveys deliberate and intentional action. While it can describe human plans, its most significant use is in relation to God's sovereign will. It reveals that God's plan of salvation through Christ was not an afterthought but a predetermined purpose, set forth publicly to demonstrate His own righteousness and to make known the mystery of His will to mankind.
TRV