### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stereós**, represented by `{{G4731}}`, means **solid** or **stable**. Derived from `{{G2476}}` (hístēmi), meaning "to stand," it carries the idea of being stiff, firm, and unshakeable. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible and is translated as "sure," "strong," or "stedfast."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural applications, `{{G4731}}` describes both doctrinal truth and spiritual maturity. In [[2 Timothy 2:19]], it affirms that the foundation of God "standeth **sure**," highlighting the unwavering nature of God's promises. The book of Hebrews uses the term to contrast the "milk" of basic principles with the "**strong** meat" suitable for the spiritually mature ([[Hebrews 5:12]], [[Hebrews 5:14]]). Finally, it is used to call believers to be **stedfast** in the faith, enabling them to resist their adversary [[1 Peter 5:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of stability and firmness:
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi**: As the root word for `{{G4731}}`, it means **to stand**. It is used in [[2 Timothy 2:19]] to describe how the foundation "standeth" sure.
* `{{G2310}}` **themélios**: Meaning a **foundation**, this word is directly paired with `{{G4731}}` to illustrate the unshakeable nature of God's truth [[2 Timothy 2:19]].
* `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi**: This term means **to stand against, i.e. oppose**. It is used in [[1 Peter 5:9]], commanding believers to "resist" the devil, which is made possible by being "stedfast" `{{G4731}}` in the faith.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4731}}` is seen in its application to core Christian principles.
* **Doctrinal Certainty:** The word establishes the absolute reliability of God's truth. In [[2 Timothy 2:19]], the "foundation of God standeth **sure**," secured by a divine "seal" `{{G4973}}`, indicating it is immoveable and unchangeable.
* **Spiritual Maturity:** It is used as a marker for spiritual growth. Hebrews contrasts the "first principles" `{{G4747}}` for new believers with the "**strong** meat" of deeper doctrine for those who are "of full age" `{{G5046}}` and have their senses exercised [[Hebrews 5:12-14]].
* **Steadfast Resistance:** The term defines the posture of a believer against spiritual adversity. To "resist" `{{G436}}` the devil, one must be "**stedfast** in the faith" `{{G4102}}`, showing that stability is a prerequisite for effective spiritual warfare [[1 Peter 5:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4731}}` is a concise but powerful term in the New Testament. Though appearing only four times, it provides a crucial framework for understanding stability in the Christian life. From the **sure** foundation of God's promises to the **strong** meat of mature doctrine and the **stedfast** resolve needed in faith, **stereós** communicates a non-negotiable firmness that is both a gift from God and a goal for every believer.
TRV