The Greek word prophérō, represented by G4393, means to bear forward or produce. Its direct biblical translation is bring forth. Though it appears only 2 times in 1 unique verse, its usage is pivotal in illustrating the principle that external actions are a product of one's internal state.
The single verse where G4393 is found, Luke 6:45, uses the word twice to establish a powerful contrast. It states that a good G18 man brings forth good things from the good G18 treasure G2344 of his heart G2588. Conversely, an evil G4190 man brings forth evil things from his evil treasure G2344. The verse concludes by explaining this principle: "for of the abundance G4051 of the heart his mouth speaketh" Luke 6:45. The use of prophérō here directly connects a person's character to what they produce in the world.
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of G4393:
- G2588 kardía (the heart, i.e. (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind)): This is the source from which things are brought forth. The word of God is described as a "discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" Hebrews 4:12, highlighting its role as the center of a person's being.
- G2344 thēsaurós (a deposit, i.e. wealth (literally or figuratively)): This describes the contents of the heart. Whether good or evil, this is the "wealth" that is drawn upon. This concept is reinforced elsewhere, stating, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" Matthew 6:21.
- G18 agathós ("good"): This word defines the positive quality of both the source and what is brought forth. Believers are described as God's workmanship, created "unto good works" Ephesians 2:10.
- G4190 ponērós (hurtful, i.e. evil): This is the direct opposite of agathós and defines the negative quality produced from a corrupt source Luke 6:45. Believers are taught to pray for deliverance from evil Matthew 6:13.
- G4051 perísseuma (a surplus, or superabundance): This explains the mechanism by which things are brought forth—they are an overflow of what is already stored in the heart Luke 6:45.
The theological weight of G4393 is concentrated in its single context, which establishes several key principles:
- The Heart as the Source: The use of prophérō teaches that human actions and words are not spontaneous but are produced from a pre-existing spiritual state. The heart G2588 functions as a treasure G2344 that determines what a person brings forth G4393.
- A Principle of Overflow: The concept is explained as a matter of abundance G4051. What is inside a person in superabundance will inevitably come out, just as the mouth G4750 speaketh G2980 from what fills the heart Luke 6:45.
- Inner Character Determines Outer Fruit: The word illustrates that a good G18 person and an evil G4190 person are distinguished by what they produce. This connects being to doing, showing that external "fruit" is a reliable indicator of the internal "root."
In summary, while prophérō G4393 is rare in scripture, its role is foundational to understanding the relationship between faith and works. It means more than just to physically "bring forth"; it signifies the production of words and deeds that are a direct manifestation of the heart's stored treasure. Through its use in Luke 6:45, it provides an unforgettable illustration that what comes out of a person is the truest evidence of what resides within them.
TRV