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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the depth and nuance of the scriptures in their original context. The Greek word ἐξακολουθέω (exakolouthéō) holds particular significance as it means “to follow out” or “to imitate closely.” This word provides insight into the concepts of discipleship, devotion, and adherence that are central to New Testament teachings. Additionally, its use in ancient Greek culture enriches our understanding of social and religious practices where following or imitating a leader, deity, or teacher was a significant theme.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐξακολουθέω (exakolouthéō) [ek-sa-ko-LOO-theh-oh]
- Etymology: From ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and ἀκολουθέω (akolouthéō), meaning “to follow” or “accompany.”
- Part of Speech: Verb; used primarily in the present active indicative form.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To follow out; to pursue closely.
- To imitate or adhere strictly.
- To continue steadfastly in following.
Similar Words: ἀκολουθέω (akolouthéō) [ak-o-loo-THEH-oh] also means “to follow” or “accompany,” but ἐξακολουθέω emphasizes a more complete or intense following, often implying a deeper level of commitment or imitation. ἐπισκέπτομαι (episképtomai) [ep-ee-SKEP-toh-my], on the other hand, means “to visit” or “to care for,” which, while sometimes overlapping in context, involves more of an oversight or guardianship aspect rather than the idea of following.
Further Insights: ἐξακολουθέω is derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” combined with ἀκολουθέω (akolouthéō), meaning “to follow.” The addition of ἐκ suggests a following that is thorough and complete, often implying a rigorous imitation or adherence to a path or set of instructions. As a verb, its morphological variations would include changes based on tense, voice, and mood in Koine Greek. However, the most common forms encountered are in the present active indicative.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: ἐξακολουθέω is defined as “to follow out fully,” with an emphasis on continued or thorough pursuit. The lexicon highlights its use in early Christian texts where it often denotes a strong sense of devotion or discipleship.
Thayers: ἐξακολουθέω is described as “to follow closely or persistently,” often within a spiritual or moral context. Thayers emphasizes its usage in passages where a disciple or believer is encouraged to follow a teaching or example fully.
Vines: Notes that ἐξακολουθέω implies a complete or dedicated following, not just in the physical sense but also mentally and spiritually. It is particularly relevant in contexts where steadfast adherence to a principle or command is urged.
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LSJ: Provides a classical perspective on ἐξακολουθέω, explaining it as “to follow to the end” or “to imitate.” It is used to indicate complete adherence or conformity, especially in philosophical or rhetorical texts where following a mentor or teacher is emphasized.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐξακολουθέω as “follow out,” or “imitate closely,” providing references in the New Testament where the term illustrates the idea of dedicated discipleship or adherence to God’s will.
Related Scripture References
- 2 Peter 1:16 – “For we did not follow cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text with the Greek word |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Phaedrus | “He desired to follow out (ἐξακολουθέω) the teachings of his master.” |
| Aristotle | Ethics | “To follow out (ἐξακολουθέω) a path of virtue requires great discipline.” |
| Xenophon | Memorabilia | “They chose to follow out (ἐξακολουθέω) the example set by their leader.” |
Septuagint Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text with the Greek word |
|---|---|---|
| Moses | Exodus | “They shall follow out (ἐξακολουθέω) all that the Lord has commanded.” |
| Isaiah | Isaiah | “The righteous shall follow out (ἐξακολουθέω) in His ways.” |
| Jeremiah | Jeremiah | “Those who follow out (ἐξακολουθέω) after idols bring judgment upon themselves.” |
Summary of ἐξακολουθέω (G1811: exakolouthéō)
The Greek word ἐξακολουθέω (exakolouthéō) conveys the idea of thoroughly following or imitating someone or something. In the New Testament, it carries a profound sense of discipleship and dedication, often used to describe the devotion required to follow Christ or adhere to God’s commandments fully. In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, ἐξακολουθέω appears in contexts where adherence to a path, leader, or teaching is emphasized, further demonstrating the word’s broad applicability in both secular and sacred texts.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? The concept behind ἐξακολουθέω not only informs New Testament teachings on discipleship but also reflects broader cultural practices in the ancient world where followers of a teacher or philosopher would imitate every aspect of their mentor’s life, including habits, speech, and even clothing. This word, therefore, captures a cultural ideal of complete emulation and devotion.
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