middle voice from πρό and the base of τροπή; to turn forward for oneself, i.e. encourage:--exhort.
Transliteration:protrépomai
Pronunciation:prot-rep'-om-ahee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4389 (προτρέπομαι, protrépomai) is derived from the preposition πρό (pro), meaning "forward" or "before," and the root of τροπή (tropē), which signifies "a turning." The verb τρέπω (trepō) means "to turn." Thus, the compound word literally suggests "to turn forward." The middle voice, as indicated in its base definition, implies an action performed by the subject for their own benefit or on their own behalf, or an action directed towards another that results in a benefit for the subject. In this context, "to turn forward for oneself" conveys the idea of actively urging or impelling someone else to move in a particular direction, with a view to a beneficial outcome. Its semantic range therefore includes concepts such as to exhort, to encourage strongly, to urge forward, or to persuade with earnestness. It carries a stronger connotation than mere advice or mild encouragement; it implies a compelling or propelling force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4389 (προτρέπομαι, protrépomai) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 18:27]]. The verse states: "And when he desired to pass into Achaia, the brethren *encouraged* him and wrote to the disciples to receive him." This single occurrence provides a crucial insight into its practical application within the early Christian community. The context involves Apollos, a man described as eloquent and mighty in the Scriptures, who desired to travel from Ephesus to Achaia. The believers in Ephesus did not merely assent to his desire; they actively "encouraged" or "exhorted" him (προτρέπομαι). This active encouragement suggests more than passive approval; it implies that they earnestly urged him to go, recognizing his gifts and the potential benefit his ministry would bring to the churches in Achaia. Their exhortation was so significant that they also provided him with a letter of commendation, further facilitating his mission. This demonstrates a corporate discernment and active support for a gifted individual's ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate G4389 (προτρέπομαι), it is helpful to compare it with other Greek words that convey related ideas of urging or encouragement. For instance, `{{G3870}}` (parakaléō) is a much broader term often translated as "to comfort," "to appeal," or "to exhort," and can range from gentle consolation to strong admonition. While parakaléō can denote exhortation, protrépomai seems to carry a more specific sense of impelling forward or actively urging a course of action. Another related term is `{{G3888}}` (parainéō), which means "to advise" or "to recommend," implying counsel rather than a strong push. `{{G314}}` (anankázō) means "to compel" or "to force," which is stronger than protrépomai, as protrépomai implies persuasion rather than coercion. The uniqueness of protrépomai lies in its active, directional urging, often with a sense of affirming and propelling someone into a beneficial endeavor. It aligns with the biblical concept of mutual edification and the corporate recognition of spiritual gifts for the advancement of God's kingdom.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the use of G4389 (προτρέπομαι, protrépomai) in [[Acts 18:27]] carries significant theological weight. It highlights the vital role of the believing community in discerning, affirming, and actively supporting the ministry of gifted individuals. The Ephesian believers did not simply acknowledge Apollos's desire to serve; they proactively "turned him forward," indicating a corporate investment in his calling. This act of "exhortation" or "encouragement" is not merely polite assent but a theological endorsement, recognizing God's hand upon Apollos and facilitating his move for the benefit of the wider church. It underscores the principle that spiritual gifts are not given for individual isolation but for the edification of the body of Christ. The community's active role in protrépomai demonstrates a commitment to the spread of the gospel and the strengthening of other believers, reflecting a dynamic and interdependent body of Christ.
### Summary
The Greek word G4389 (προτρέπομαι, protrépomai) fundamentally means "to turn forward for oneself," translating to a strong, active encouragement or exhortation. Its single appearance in the New Testament, in [[Acts 18:27]], provides a clear illustration of its meaning: the Ephesian believers actively and earnestly urged Apollos to proceed to Achaia. This was not a passive agreement but a deliberate act of propelling him forward, recognizing his gifts and the potential spiritual benefit for the churches there. Protrépomai therefore signifies a robust, directional form of encouragement, distinct from mere advice or gentle comfort. Theologically, it underscores the communal responsibility to discern and actively support the deployment of spiritual gifts for the building up of the body of Christ and the advancement of God's kingdom.
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