στηρίζω

stērízō /stay-rid'-zo/ Ask about this word
Rootfrom a presumed derivative of ἵστημι (like στερεός)
Meaningto set fast, i.e. (literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm
KJV usagefix, (e-)stablish, stedfastly set, strengthen.
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Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word stērízō, represented by G4741, means to set fast or confirm. It appears 14 times in 13 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition encompasses both the literal idea of fixing something firmly in place and the figurative sense of establishing or strengthening a person in their resolve or faith.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In scripture, G4741 is used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it describes the "great gulf fixed" between the rich man and Lazarus, making it impassable Luke 16:26. It is also used to describe Jesus's determination as he "stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem" Luke 9:51. Figuratively, it most often relates to the spiritual strengthening of believers. God is the one with the power to stablish believers in the gospel Romans 16:25, and the Lord is described as faithful to stablish and keep them from evil 2 Thessalonians 3:3. The goal of this spiritual establishment is for believers' hearts to be "unblameable in holiness" 1 Thessalonians 3:13.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words clarify the concept of being established or strengthened:

  • G4599 sthenóō (to strengthen): Used alongside G4741, it emphasizes confirming believers in spiritual knowledge and power 1 Peter 5:10.
  • G2311 themelióō (to lay a basis for, consolidate): This term also appears with G4741 and highlights the idea of creating a firm, settled foundation for faith 1 Peter 5:10.
  • G1994 epistréphō (to revert, convert, return): The act of strengthening others can be a direct result of one's own conversion. After being converted, Peter is instructed to strengthen his brethren Luke 22:32.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G4741 is significant, outlining the process of spiritual maturation and security.

  • Divine Action: The primary source of establishment is God himself. He is the one with the "power to stablish" believers Romans 16:25 and who will faithfully stablish and keep them 2 Thessalonians 3:3. This divine work is an act of grace 1 Peter 5:10.
  • Endurance and Hope: Believers are encouraged to stablish their hearts in anticipation of the Lord's return James 5:8. This stability is crucial for standing firm in the faith and remaining unblameable before God 1 Thessalonians 3:13.
  • Communal Responsibility: While God is the ultimate source of strength, believers have a role in establishing one another. Paul sent Timothy to establish the Thessalonians 1 Thessalonians 3:2, and Peter was commissioned to strengthen his brethren after his own conversion Luke 22:32.

Summary

In summary, G4741 moves beyond a simple definition of being fixed. It is a cornerstone concept for Christian perseverance and spiritual security. The term illustrates a dynamic process that is initiated by God's grace, required for holy living and endurance, and carried out in part through the mutual encouragement of believers. From the literal barrier of a fixed gulf to the spiritual act of God who stablishes a believer's heart, G4741 defines what it means to be made firm and steadfast in the faith.

Grammatical Forms

In the Greek New Testament, this word appears as a verb across 13 occurrences, inflected in 10 grammatical forms.

  • Aorist Active Imperative 2nd Singular 2×
  • Aorist Active Infinitive 2×
  • Future Active Indicative 3rd Singular 2×
  • Aorist Active Imperative 2nd Plural 1×
  • Aorist Active Indicative 3rd Singular 1×
  • Aorist Active Optative 3rd Singular 1×
  • Aorist Passive Infinitive 1×
  • Perfect Passive Indicative 3rd Singular 1×
  • Perfect Passive Participle Accusative Plural Masculine 1×
  • Present Active Participle Nominative Singular Masculine 1×
Nominative
The subject of the verb.
Accusative
The direct object of the verb.
Singular
One.
Plural
More than one.
Masculine
Masculine grammatical gender.
2nd
Second person — the one addressed ("you").
3rd
Third person — the one spoken about ("he"/"they").
Present
Action in progress or repeated — happening now or continually.
Future
Action yet to take place.
Aorist
Action viewed as a single whole — usually a simple past event.
Perfect
A completed act whose results continue.
Active
The subject performs the action.
Passive
The subject is acted upon.
Indicative
A plain statement of fact.
Imperative
A command or entreaty.
Optative
A wish or prayer — rare in the New Testament.
Infinitive
The verb as a noun — "to do".
Participle
A verbal adjective — describes while carrying the verb's action.

Theographic Context

Biblical Distribution

Appears in 13 verses across 8 books. Most frequent in Luke (3 verses).

3
Luke
2
Romans
2
1 Thessalonians
2
2 Thessalonians
1
James
1
1 Peter
1
2 Peter
1
Revelation

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