from a derivative of (to range in regular line); to march in (military) rank (keep step), i.e. (figuratively) to conform to virtue and piety:--walk (orderly).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stoichéō**, represented by `{{G4748}}`, carries the meaning to march in military rank or keep step. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses. Figuratively, it means to conform to virtue and piety, often translated as to "walk" or "walk orderly," indicating a life that follows a specific, structured path.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4748}}` describes the practical outworking of a believer's faith. It is used to command believers who live in the Spirit to also **walk** in the Spirit, aligning their conduct with their spiritual life [[Galatians 5:25]]. This walk is associated with following a specific "rule" or standard, which brings peace and mercy [[Galatians 6:16]]. The concept also involves continuing in a path of spiritual maturity that has already been attained [[Philippians 3:16]]. Furthermore, it is used to describe following the example of faith set by others, as in **walk**ing in the steps of Abraham's faith [[Romans 4:12]], and to demonstrate observable conformity to the law [[Acts 21:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this orderly walk:
* `{{G2583}}` **kanṓn** (a rule): This term defines a standard of faith and practice. It is used alongside `{{G4748}}` to specify the "rule" by which believers are to walk ([[Galatians 6:16]], [[Philippians 3:16]]).
* `{{G2487}}` **íchnos** (a track): This word, meaning "step," provides the imagery of following a path. Believers are called to walk in the "steps" of Abraham's faith, suggesting a pattern to be followed [[Romans 4:12]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit): The "Spirit" is the sphere and power in which this walk takes place. To walk by the Spirit is the external evidence of living in the Spirit [[Galatians 5:25]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): In certain contexts, this orderly walk involves keeping the "law," demonstrating adherence to a specific set of regulations and principles [[Acts 21:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4748}}` is significant in understanding Christian conduct.
* **Conformity to a Divine Standard:** The call to walk by a "rule" `{{G2583}}` establishes that the Christian life is not directionless but is to be lived in alignment with a divine standard [[Galatians 6:16]].
* **The Outward Expression of Inner Life:** The connection between living in the Spirit and walking in the Spirit shows that true spiritual life will inevitably manifest in orderly, consistent behavior [[Galatians 5:25]].
* **Following Precedent:** The instruction to walk in the "steps" `{{G2487}}` of Abraham's faith highlights the importance of emulating the faith of spiritual predecessors as a guide for one's own conduct [[Romans 4:12]].
* **Progressive Consistency:** The command in [[Philippians 3:16]] to walk by the same rule to which "we have already attained" `{{G5348}}` emphasizes that spiritual growth involves consistently adhering to the truth already learned.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4748}}` **stoichéō** is a dynamic term that moves beyond simple action to describe a disciplined and orderly life. It conveys the idea of marching in step, whether with the Holy Spirit, a divine rule, or a pattern of faith. This word illustrates that Christian living is a structured walk of conformity to God's standard, demonstrating visibly the internal reality of a life lived in the Spirit.
TRV