### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **steréōma**, represented by `{{G4733}}`, conveys the idea of something established or confirmed. Its base definition is **something established, i.e. (abstractly) confirmation (stability):--stedfastness**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4733}}` is in [[Colossians 2:5]], where Paul expresses his encouragement to the Colossian believers. Though he is **absent** `{{G548}}` in the **flesh** `{{G4561}}`, he states he is with them in the **spirit** `{{G4151}}`. He finds joy in **beholding** `{{G991}}` their good **order** `{{G5010}}` and the **stedfastness** of their **faith** `{{G4102}}` in **Christ** `{{G5547}}`. The term here describes a firm, stable, and confirmed quality of their collective belief.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of `{{G4733}}`:
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): Defined as "persuasion, i.e. credence... reliance upon Christ for salvation." The steadfastness Paul observes is specifically linked to their **faith**, highlighting the foundation of their stability [[Colossians 2:5]].
* `{{G5010}}` **táxis** (order): Meaning "regular arrangement... official dignity." This word is used in parallel with **stedfastness**, indicating that the believers' stability was visible in both their firm faith and their well-structured community life [[Colossians 2:5]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): Refers to a "spirit... (human) the rational soul... or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, the Holy Spirit." Paul's ability to perceive their steadfastness "in the **spirit**" contrasts with his physical absence, underscoring the spiritual nature of this stability [[Colossians 2:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4733}}` is concentrated in its single appearance.
* **Confirmed Faith:** The word's primary function is to describe a faith that is not wavering but is established and stable. It speaks to the maturity and resilience of belief in **Christ** `{{G5547}}` [[Colossians 2:5]].
* **Spiritual Reality:** Paul's observation of their **stedfastness** `{{G4733}}` while being physically **absent** `{{G548}}` emphasizes that the stability of the church is a spiritual reality that can be perceived "in the **spirit**" `{{G4151}}`, independent of physical proximity.
* **Order and Stability:** The pairing of **order** `{{G5010}}` and **stedfastness** `{{G4733}}` suggests a theological connection between a well-ordered community and the strength of its faith. One reinforces the other, creating a solid front [[Colossians 2:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4733}}` is a specific and impactful term. While used only once, it powerfully illustrates the concept of a firm and established foundation. It describes a faith that is stable, confirmed, and part of a well-ordered spiritual life. Its context in [[Colossians 2:5]] shows that such **stedfastness** is a key virtue of the church, a spiritual reality that provides joy and assurance.
TRV