### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **spoudázō**, represented by `{{G4704}}`, means to use speed, make an effort, or be prompt and earnest. It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible, and is translated as "study," "diligence," "endeavour," and "labour." The term conveys a sense of focused, zealous, and purposeful action, urging haste and commitment toward a goal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4704}}` is applied to several key areas of the Christian life. It is a command to exert effort in spiritual growth, as believers are told to "give **diligence** to make your calling and election sure" [[2 Peter 1:10]]. The word is famously used to command doctrinal integrity, instructing Timothy to "**Study** to shew thyself approved unto God" [[2 Timothy 2:15]]. It also describes the effort required to maintain church harmony, "**Endeavouring** to keep the unity of the Spirit" [[Ephesians 4:3]]. In a practical sense, it conveys urgency, as when Paul tells Titus to "be **diligent** to come unto me" [[Titus 3:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the purpose and context of this earnest effort:
* `{{G1384}}` **dókimos** (properly, acceptable (current after assayal), i.e. approved:--approved, tried.): This is the desired outcome of diligent study. The goal is to present oneself **approved** unto God [[2 Timothy 2:15]].
* `{{G2821}}` **klēsis** (an invitation (figuratively):--calling.): Diligence is directly applied to making one's divine **calling** and election firm and sure [[2 Peter 1:10]].
* `{{G1515}}` **eirḗnē** (peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity:--one, peace, quietness, rest, + set at one again.): This is both the state in which a believer should be diligently found [[2 Peter 3:14]] and the **bond** through which unity must be kept [[Ephesians 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4704}}` is significant, highlighting the active nature of faith.
* **Perseverance and Assurance:** Diligence is essential for spiritual stability. By making their calling and election sure, believers will "never fall" [[2 Peter 1:10]]. The command to "**labour** therefore to enter into that rest" is given to avoid falling into the same example of unbelief [[Hebrews 4:11]].
* **Personal Sanctification:** The term calls believers to an active pursuit of holiness. One must "be **diligent** that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless" [[2 Peter 3:14]]. This connects earnest effort directly to one's presentation before God.
* **Faithful Stewardship:** The word frames spiritual life as the work of a craftsman. One must "**Study** to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed" [[2 Timothy 2:15]], implying careful and skillful handling of the truth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4704}}` is more than a simple command to "try hard." It is a call to a focused, urgent, and zealous commitment in the Christian walk. It encompasses the intellectual effort of studying God's word, the relational work of preserving unity, and the moral imperative of pursuing holiness. It challenges believers to be intentional and prompt in their faith, laboring purposefully for the goals God has set before them.
TRV