The Greek word pheídomai, represented by G5339, means to be chary of, which can be understood subjectively as to abstain or objectively as to treat leniently. It is often translated as to spare or forbear. This term appears 12 times across 9 unique verses, often highlighting a significant decision to either withhold judgment or to enact it.
In scripture, G5339 is used to illustrate the gravity of God's judgment and the depth of His love. God did not spare the angels that sinned, but delivered them to chains of darkness 2 Peter 2:4, nor did He spare the ancient world from the flood 2 Peter 2:5. The most profound use of this term is in reference to Christ, where God did not spare His own Son but delivered Him up for us all Romans 8:32. Paul also uses the word to describe his apostolic authority, stating that he refrained from visiting Corinth to spare them 2 Corinthians 1:23, but warns that upon his return, he will not spare those who remain in sin 2 Corinthians 13:2.
Several related words help clarify the concept of sparing or not sparing:
- G3860 paradídōmi (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): This word is used in direct contrast to sparing. God did not spare His son, but instead delivered him up Romans 8:32, and He delivered the fallen angels into chains 2 Peter 2:4.
- G5483 charízomai (to grant as a favor, i.e. gratuitously, in kindness, pardon or rescue): This is the positive outcome of God not sparing His Son. Because He did not spare Jesus, He will freely give all things to believers Romans 8:32.
- G1863 epágō (to superinduce, i.e. inflict (an evil), charge (a crime)): This describes the action taken when sparing is withheld. God did not spare the old world but was responsible for bringing in the flood upon the ungodly 2 Peter 2:5.
- G3074 lýkos (a wolf): Paul warns that grievous wolves will enter the church, characterized by their act of not sparing the flock Acts 20:29.
The theological weight of G5339 is significant, revealing key aspects of God's character and His dealings with humanity.
- Divine Justice: The word demonstrates God's unswerving justice. He did not spare angels who sinned 2 Peter 2:4 or the ungodly world 2 Peter 2:5, showing that sin has definite consequences. This serves as a warning to believers, for if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare them either Romans 11:21.
- Sacrificial Love: The central theme is that God's decision not to spare His own Son is the ultimate expression of love and the basis for salvation. This act of "not sparing" is what allows Him to "freely give us all things" Romans 8:32.
- Apostolic Discipline: The term is applied to pastoral care and church discipline. Paul balances a desire to spare the church from rebuke 2 Corinthians 1:23 with a firm warning that he will not spare the unrepentant 2 Corinthians 13:2, demonstrating a leader's responsibility to protect the flock.
In summary, G5339 is a powerful term that encapsulates the tension between mercy and judgment. It shows that the act of "not sparing" can be an instrument of divine justice against sin, as seen with the fallen angels and the flood. Paradoxically, it also serves as the foundation of grace, where God's refusal to spare His Son becomes the very means by which He grants believers everything.
TRV