### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **auxánō**, represented by `{{G837}}`, means **to grow or enlarge**. A prolonged form of a primary verb, it is used in both literal and figurative senses, whether actively or passively. It appears **22 times** across **22 unique verses** in the Bible, describing everything from the natural growth of plants to the spiritual increase of the believer and the church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G837}}` is used to illustrate several types of growth. It describes the natural world, as when Jesus speaks of the mustard seed that **grew** into a great tree [[Luke 13:19]] or tells his followers to "consider the lilies of the field, how they **grow**" [[Matthew 6:28]]. The word also depicts human development, as seen in the accounts of both Jesus and John the Baptist, who as children **grew** and "waxed strong in spirit" ([[Luke 2:40]], [[Luke 1:80]]). Figuratively, it refers to the expansion of the gospel, where "the word of God **increased**" in the early church [[Acts 6:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the concept of growth and increase:
* `{{G838}}` **aúxēsis** (growth): This is the direct noun form of the verb. It is used alongside `{{G837}}` to describe the body of Christ, which "increaseth with the **increase** of God" [[Colossians 2:19]].
* `{{G1642}}` **elattóō** (to lessen): This word serves as a direct antonym. John the Baptist uses it to contrast his own role with that of the Messiah, stating, "He must **increase**, but I must **decrease**" [[John 3:30]].
* `{{G4129}}` **plēthýnō** (to increase or multiply): Often appearing with `{{G837}}`, this word emphasizes an increase in number. In Acts, the Word of God **grew** `{{G837}}` and the number of disciples **multiplied** `{{G4129}}`, showing two aspects of the church's expansion [[Acts 6:7]].
* `{{G2901}}` **krataióō** (to empower, increase in vigor): This term is used to describe the strengthening that accompanies growth. The accounts of both Jesus and John the Baptist state that as children they **grew** `{{G837}}` and **waxed strong** `{{G2901}}` in spirit ([[Luke 1:80]], [[Luke 2:40]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G837}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of spiritual life and divine work.
* **Divine Source of Growth:** The apostle Paul makes it clear that while humans have a role in ministry ("I have planted, Apollos watered"), it is ultimately "God that giveth the **increase**" [[1 Corinthians 3:7]]. All genuine spiritual growth originates from Him.
* **Spiritual Maturation of Believers:** The Christian life is presented as a process of continuous development. Believers are called to "**grow** in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord" [[2 Peter 3:18]] and to "**grow** up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ" [[Ephesians 4:15]].
* **Expansion of the Gospel:** In the book of Acts, the "word of God" is described as a living agent that **grew** and prevailed [[Acts 19:20]], signifying the unstoppable progress of God's message in the world.
* **Christ's Preeminence:** The declaration by John the Baptist that Christ must **increase** while he must decrease establishes a foundational principle of Christian discipleship: the glory and prominence of Christ must continually grow in the life of a believer [[John 3:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G837}}` conveys a dynamic principle central to the biblical message. It moves beyond simple physical development to encompass the spiritual growth of the individual, the numerical and spiritual expansion of the church, and the increasing influence of God's Word. It consistently teaches that whether in a field of lilies or the heart of a believer, true and lasting increase is a gift from God.
TRV