### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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