The Greek word stērigmós, represented by G4740, denotes a figurative stability or stedfastness. It is derived from the word στηρίζω. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application.
The sole use of G4740 occurs in 2 Peter 3:17, where believers are warned to "beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness." In this context, steadfastness is presented as a personal, established state of spiritual stability that can be lost. It is something that must be actively guarded against the influence of false teachings and lawless people.
Several related words in its only context clarify the nature of this stability and the threats against it:
- G5442 phylássō (beware): This word means "to watch, i.e. be on guard." It is the command given to believers to actively preserve their steadfastness 2 Peter 3:17.
- G4879 synapágō (being led away): Defined as to "transport with (seduce, passively, yield)," this describes the process by which one's stability is undermined 2 Peter 3:17.
- G4106 plánē (error): Meaning "a straying from orthodoxy or piety," this is the specific danger that threatens believers and can cause them to lose their footing 2 Peter 3:17.
- G113 áthesmos (wicked): This term for "lawless" identifies the source of the deceptive error that believers must guard against 2 Peter 3:17.
- G1601 ekpíptō (fall from): Meaning "to drop away," this describes the consequence of failing to remain steadfast, resulting in a loss of one's spiritual position 2 Peter 3:17.
The theological weight of G4740 is concentrated in its single appearance, which serves as a critical warning.
- A Condition to Maintain: Steadfastness is not a permanent, unassailable state but a spiritual condition that requires active preservation. Believers are called to "beware" G5442 in order to keep it 2 Peter 3:17.
- External Threats: This stability is threatened by external forces, specifically the "error" G4106 promoted by the "wicked" G113.
- Personal Responsibility: The verse warns against being "led away" G4879 and losing one's "own" steadfastness, emphasizing personal accountability in maintaining a firm spiritual foundation. The consequence is to "fall from" G1601 this state of stability.
In summary, though G4740 appears only once, its meaning is profound. Stērigmós represents a crucial spiritual stability that is the target of corrupting influences. Its singular use in scripture is a concise and powerful exhortation for believers to remain vigilant and guard their foundation in the faith, lest they be carried away by error and fall.
TRV