The Greek word stereóō, represented by G4732, means to solidify, establish, or make strong. It appears 5 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to describe both literal, physical strengthening and the figurative establishment of faith in individuals and communities.
In the book of Acts, G4732 is used to illustrate the tangible power of faith. It describes a literal healing where a man's "feet and ankle bones received strength" Acts 3:7. This miracle is then explained as an act of faith, which has "made this man strong" Acts 3:16. The word is also applied figuratively to the early church, where congregations "were established in the faith" and consequently "increased in number daily" Acts 16:5.
Several related words clarify the context in which strengthening occurs:
- G4102 pístis (faith): Defined as persuasion, credence, or reliance upon Christ for salvation, this is the essential catalyst for the act of strengthening. It is through faith that the man is made strong Acts 3:16 and the churches are established Acts 16:5.
- G1453 egeírō (to waken, rouse, lift up, raise): This word describes the accompanying action of the healing in Acts 3:7, where the man is "lifted... up" at the same moment his ankles receive strength.
- G4052 perisseúō (to superabound, be in excess, increase): This term highlights the result of being established. After the churches were established in the faith, they "increased in number" Acts 16:5.
The theological significance of G4732 is centered on the manifestation of God's power through faith.
- Tangible Results of Faith: The word demonstrates that faith is not merely an internal belief but an active force that produces real-world results, from the physical restoration of a body to "perfect soundness" Acts 3:16 to the growth of the church.
- Divine Strengthening: Whether used for an individual's body or a community's foundation, stereóō points to a strength that comes from a divine source, accessed through faith in the name of Jesus Acts 3:16.
- Establishment and Growth: The stability of the church is directly linked to its growth. Being "established in the faith" is presented as the prerequisite for the church to increase in number Acts 16:5.
In summary, G4732 is a specific and powerful term that connects the concept of faith to the result of being made strong or established. It bridges the gap between the spiritual and the physical, showing how reliance on God solidifies a person's body, confirms a believer's standing, and establishes the church, leading to tangible wholeness and growth.
TRV