Brief Overview of πείθω (Strong’s G3982: peithō)

Strong’s G3982: Primary verb meaning to persuade or convince, also to trust or have confidence when in middle/passive voice. In NT usage, carries significant theological weight regarding faith, obedience, and trust in God. Often implies both intellectual conviction and resulting action or trust.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πείθω represents a dynamic process of persuasion leading to conviction and trust. In the NT, it describes both human persuasion and divine work in bringing people to faith. Early church writers saw it as crucial in understanding the relationship between faith and reason. Today, it helps us understand that biblical faith involves both intellectual conviction and trusting response.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πείθω, peithō, [PAY-tho]
• Detailed pronunciation: PAY-thoh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Primary verb
• Indo-European root *bheidh- (to trust)
• Related to Latin fido (trust)
• Base for English “faith”

D – Defining Meanings

• To persuade
• To convince
• To trust (middle/passive)
• To have confidence in
• To obey (perfect tense)

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

Translation Options:

• Persuade – Active voice emphasis
• Trust in – Middle voice emphasis
• Be convinced – Passive voice emphasis

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πιστεύω [pisteuō, pis-TYOO-oh] – to believe
• πέποιθα [pepoitha, pe-POY-tha] – perfect of πείθω, to trust
• ὑπακούω [hypakouō, hoop-a-KOO-oh] – to obey

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb features:

• Present Active: πείθω
• Future: πείσω
• Perfect: πέποιθα
• Aorist Passive: ἐπείσθην

Shows:

• Complex voice system
• Important perfect form
• Middle/passive distinction
• Cross-references: πίστις (faith), πειθώ (persuasion)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes range of meanings across voices. Thayer’s notes progression from persuasion to trust. LSJ traces classical development. Vine’s highlights theological significance. Moulton and Milligan show legal usage.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“But the chief priests and elders persuaded [πείθω] the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus.” (Matthew 27:20)

Additional References:
Acts 17:4, Romans 8:38, 2 Corinthians 5:11, Galatians 1:10

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πείθω reveals that true faith involves both intellectual conviction and personal trust. The gospel persuades minds and transforms hearts, calling for both understanding and commitment. This reminds us that following Christ engages both reason and faith.

D – Did You Know?

1. Perfect tense πέποιθα became virtually a separate word meaning “trust”
2. Used in legal contexts for winning court cases
3. Key term in ancient philosophical debates about knowledge

Strong’s G3982: Primary verb meaning to persuade or convince, also to trust or have confidence when in middle/passive voice. In NT usage, carries significant theological weight regarding faith, obedience, and trust in God. Often implies both intellectual conviction and resulting action or trust.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #Faith #Trust #Persuasion #Conviction #Belief #Obedience #Confidence #BiblicalFaith #Evangelism #Conversion​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​