from σημεῖον; to distinguish, i.e. mark (for avoidance):--note.
Transliteration:sēmeióō
Pronunciation:say-mi-o'-o
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb σημειόω (sēmeióō) `{{G4593}}` is derived directly from the noun σημεῖον (sēmeion) `{{G4592}}`, meaning "a sign," "mark," or "token." Consequently, the verb signifies "to mark out," "to distinguish," or "to note." The base definition provided, "to distinguish, i.e. mark (for avoidance)," highlights a specific nuance: the act of identifying or singling out an individual or group for a particular purpose, often implying a separation or distinction from others, with a potentially cautionary or disciplinary intent. It is not merely to observe a sign, but to actively take note of someone or something as a significant marker, often for the purpose of a prescribed response or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb σημειόω (sēmeióō) `{{G4593}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in [[2 Thessalonians 3:14]]. This singular occurrence, however, carries significant weight and provides the primary context for understanding its precise meaning and application within the biblical narrative.
In [[2 Thessalonians 3:14]], the Apostle Paul instructs the Thessalonian believers: "And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed." The imperative "σημειοῦσθε" (sēmeioústhe) is a direct command to the community. The immediate context of this passage (2 Thessalonians 3:6-13) addresses those who are idle, disorderly, and disruptive within the church, refusing to work and instead meddling in others' affairs.
Paul's instruction to "note" or "mark" such an individual is not an act of permanent excommunication or condemnation. Rather, it is a disciplinary measure with a clear redemptive purpose. The subsequent command, "and have no company with him" (μὴ συναναμίγνυσθε), specifies the nature of this "marking": it entails a withdrawal of social fellowship and intimate association. The ultimate goal is "that he may be ashamed" (ἵνα ἐντραπῇ), leading to repentance and restoration. This "shame" is not humiliation for its own sake, but a godly sorrow that prompts a change of behavior. The act of "noting" thus serves to alert the community to the individual's disobedience and to initiate a process designed to correct the erring believer and preserve the integrity and witness of the church.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of σημειόω (sēmeióō) `{{G4593}}` is deeply intertwined with its root and related concepts:
* **σημεῖον (sēmeion) `{{G4592}}`**: The foundational noun, meaning "sign," "mark," or "token." The verb is the act of making or taking note of such a sign.
* **ἀφορίζω (aphorizō) `{{G873}}`**: "To set apart," "to separate." This word describes the practical outcome of "noting" someone for avoidance, signifying a deliberate separation from certain forms of fellowship.
* **διαστέλλω (diastellō) `{{G1291}}`**: "To distinguish," "to command." Shares the idea of setting apart or giving a clear directive, which is inherent in Paul's command to "note."
* **ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō) `{{G1921}}`**: "To know fully," "to recognize." While not identical, the act of "noting" implies a clear recognition and understanding of an individual's behavior.
* **παραγγέλλω (parangellō) `{{G3853}}`**: "To command," "to instruct." Paul's instruction to "note" is itself a strong command, emphasizing the authoritative nature of his pastoral guidance.
* **κοινωνία (koinōnia) `{{G2842}}`**: "Fellowship," "communion." The disruption of this sacred bond is the direct consequence of the disobedient behavior, and the withdrawal of it is the disciplinary action. The ultimate aim is the restoration of true koinonia.
* **Church Discipline**: The concept itself is central to the usage of σημειόω, highlighting the biblical mandate for the community to address sin and disorder for the sake of purity and the redemptive good of the individual.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of σημειόω (sēmeióō) `{{G4593}}` in [[2 Thessalonians 3:14]] carries profound theological implications for the nature and function of the Christian community.
1. **Church Purity and Order:** The command to "note" a disorderly brother underscores the divine imperative for the church to maintain its purity and internal order. The presence of persistent disobedience, particularly that which disrupts the communal life (like idleness and busybody behavior), is a serious matter that requires a structured response.
2. **Apostolic Authority and Obedience:** Paul's instruction is rooted in his apostolic authority. Disobedience to his "word by this epistle" is not merely a minor infraction but a defiance of divinely inspired instruction. The church's responsibility to "note" such individuals affirms the enduring authority of apostolic teaching as foundational for Christian conduct.
3. **Redemptive Discipline:** Critically, the purpose of "noting" and withdrawing fellowship is redemptive, not punitive in a final sense. The aim is "that he may be ashamed," leading to repentance and restoration to proper fellowship. This highlights God's patience and desire for the reclamation of those who err, even through painful means. Church discipline, therefore, is an act of love, designed to bring about spiritual healing and growth.
4. **Communal Accountability:** The instruction places a burden of accountability upon the entire believing community. It is not merely the leaders who are to "note," but the members collectively. This signifies the shared responsibility of believers to uphold the standards of Christ and to lovingly confront sin within their midst.
5. **The Nature of Christian Fellowship:** The command to "have no company with him" defines the boundaries of true Christian fellowship. Koinonia is not merely social interaction but a shared life of obedience to Christ and His Word. When this shared commitment is broken by persistent disobedience, the nature of fellowship is altered, necessitating a distinct separation until repentance occurs.
### Summary
The Greek word σημειόω (sēmeióō) `{{G4593}}`, derived from "sign" (σημεῖον `{{G4592}}`), means "to mark out," "to distinguish," or "to note." Its sole occurrence in the New Testament, in [[2 Thessalonians 3:14]], provides a precise context for its understanding. Here, the Apostle Paul commands the Thessalonian believers to "note" or "mark" those who are disobedient to his apostolic instruction, particularly those who are idle and disorderly. This "marking" is to be followed by a withdrawal of intimate fellowship, not as a final condemnation, but with the redemptive purpose of bringing the erring individual to shame and repentance. The theological significance of σημειόω thus lies in its illumination of essential principles of church discipline: the imperative for communal purity and order, the authority of apostolic teaching, the redemptive nature of corrective measures, and the shared responsibility of believers in maintaining the integrity of Christian fellowship.
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