Brief Overview of πεζεύω (Strong’s G3978: pezeuō)

Strong’s G3978: From πεζός (on foot); to travel by land, specifically to go on foot. Used in Acts to describe Paul’s intentional choice to walk while his companions sailed. Demonstrates the apostle’s determination and physical engagement in ministry, often choosing the more demanding route.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πεζεύω describes the deliberate act of traveling by foot, contrasting with sea travel. In Acts, it shows Paul’s commitment to ministry, willing to take the more strenuous path. Early church writers saw this as exemplifying apostolic dedication and humility. Today, it reminds us that following Christ sometimes requires choosing the harder path and engaging physically in ministry.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πεζεύω, pezeuō, [pe-DZEU-oh]
• Detailed pronunciation: peh-DZEV-oh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: πεζός (on foot)
• Suffix: -εύω (verb formation)
• Related to πούς (foot)
• Forms verb of walking action

D – Defining Meanings

• To travel by land
• To go on foot
• To journey by walking
• To make one’s way by land

For compound words: Not applicable as this is a derived verb

Translation Options:

• To go by land – Emphasizing mode of travel
• To walk – Simple action
• To journey on foot – Comprehensive meaning

E – Exploring Similar Words

• περιπατέω [peripateō, pe-ree-pa-TEH-oh] – to walk around
• πορεύομαι [poreuomai, po-REV-oh-my] – to travel
• ὁδοιπορέω [hodoiporeō, ho-doi-po-REH-oh] – to journey

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb features:

• Present Active: πεζεύω
• Future: πεζεύσω
• Aorist: ἐπέζευσα
• Perfect: πεπέζευκα

Shows:

• Regular -εύω conjugation
• Active voice usage
• Continuous aspect possible
• Cross-references: πεζός (pedestrian)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes land travel context. Thayer’s notes its contrast with sea travel. LSJ traces military usage. Vine’s highlights its single NT occurrence. Moulton and Milligan show commercial travel contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Then we went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, there intending to take Paul on board; for so he had given orders, intending himself to go on foot [πεζεύω].” (Acts 20:13)

Additional References:
No other biblical references

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πεζεύω illustrates how following Christ often means taking the path of greater effort. Like Paul choosing to walk while others sailed, we’re called to demonstrate commitment through actions, not just words. This encourages us that physical engagement in ministry has spiritual significance.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in military contexts for forced marches
2. Common in travel accounts contrasting land/sea routes
3. Became metaphor for Christian discipleship effort

Strong’s G3978: From πεζός (on foot); to travel by land, specifically to go on foot. Used in Acts to describe Paul’s intentional choice to walk while his companions sailed. Demonstrates the apostle’s determination and physical engagement in ministry, often choosing the more demanding route.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #Travel #PaulJourneys #Walking #Ministry #Commitment #Discipleship #Acts #MissionaryWork #PhysicalEffort #Dedication​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​