The Greek word hyperpleonázō, represented by G5250, is a powerful term meaning to superabound or be exceeding abundant. Formed from the words ὑπέρ and πλεονάζω, it conveys a sense of overwhelming excess. Despite its strong meaning, it is used only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its sole appearance particularly significant.
The single biblical use of G5250 appears in 1 Timothy 1:14, where the Apostle Paul describes his personal experience of salvation. The verse states, "And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus." Here, the word is used to quantify the immense and overflowing nature of God's grace, emphasizing that it was not merely sufficient but was supplied in overwhelming measure, alongside the resulting faith and love found in Christ.
The context of G5250 in 1 Timothy 1:14 links it directly to two other crucial theological terms:
- G5485 cháris: Defined as graciousness, this term refers to the divine influence upon the heart and its reflection in life. It is the means by which believers are saved Ephesians 2:8 and is described as being sufficient in weakness 2 Corinthians 12:9.
- G26 agápē: This word for love signifies affection or benevolence. It is described as a fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22 and stands as the greatest virtue alongside faith and hope 1 Corinthians 13:13. God's own love for humanity is demonstrated through Christ's death for sinners Romans 5:8.
The theological weight of G5250 is concentrated in its single, impactful use. It powerfully illustrates the nature of divine grace.
- The Overwhelming Nature of Grace: The core concept is that God's grace G5485 is not just present but is superabundant. It exceeds all measure and expectation, as highlighted by its description as "exceeding abundant" 1 Timothy 1:14.
- A Divine Package: This superabundant grace does not come alone. It is expressly tied to the "faith and love which is in Christ Jesus" 1 Timothy 1:14, showing that the overwhelming gift of God results in a transformed life characterized by these virtues.
- Centered in Christ: The source of this abundance is located "in Christ Jesus" 1 Timothy 1:14. This anchors the entire concept of superabundant grace to the person and work of the Lord.
In summary, while G5250 is among the rarest words in the New Testament, its lone appearance provides a profound theological insight. It moves the understanding of grace beyond mere sufficiency to a state of extraordinary and lavish abundance. By describing the grace of the Lord as exceeding abundant, the scripture uses this term to capture the immeasurable scale of God's gift of salvation through Christ.
TRV