### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antílēpsis**, represented by `{{G484}}`, denotes **relief** or **help**. Derived from ἀντιλαμβάνομαι, this term is exceptionally rare in scripture. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse**, yet its context provides significant insight into its function within the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G484}}` is in [[1 Corinthians 12:28]], where it is listed among the roles and gifts God has established. Paul writes, "And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, **helps**, governments, diversities of tongues" [[1 Corinthians 12:28]]. Here, **helps** is not presented as a lesser or informal activity, but as a specific function divinely placed within the **church** `{{G1577}}` by **God** `{{G2316}}` himself.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage help clarify the context of divinely appointed functions:
* `{{G5486}}` **chárisma** (gift): This word, defined as "a (divine) gratuity... (spiritual) endowment," frames the abilities listed, including **helps**, as gracious endowments from God [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* `{{G2941}}` **kybérnēsis** (government): Meaning "directorship (in the church)," this term is listed directly after **helps**, contrasting the supportive nature of `{{G484}}` with a gift of guidance and administration [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power): Translated as "miracles" in the verse, this word refers to "miraculous power" and "strength," showing that the gift of **helps** is ranked alongside overtly supernatural works [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G484}}` is derived entirely from its single, powerful context.
* **Divine Appointment:** The verse states that **God** `{{G2316}}` has "**set**" `{{G5087}}` these roles, including **helps**, in the **church** `{{G1577}}`. This establishes the gift of **help** as a divine ordinance, not merely human kindness [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* **Essential Church Function:** By being listed with **apostles** `{{G652}}`, **prophets** `{{G4396}}`, and **teachers** `{{G1320}}`, the gift of **helps** is elevated to a crucial position for the health and operation of the congregation.
* **Supportive Relief:** The word's core meaning of "relief" underscores its purpose to provide aid and support within the body of Christ, working alongside other gifts like **healings** `{{G2386}}` to ensure the community is cared for.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G484}}` appears only once, its placement in scripture is highly instructive. It is not just a word for general assistance but a term for a specific, God-ordained spiritual function. Its inclusion in the list of gifts in [[1 Corinthians 12:28]] demonstrates that providing practical **help** and relief is as vital to the church’s structure and health as the gifts of teaching, leadership, or miracles. The term **antílēpsis** confirms that supportive service is a divine endowment for the edification of the body of Christ.
TRV