Brief Overview of προσμένω (Strong’s G4357: prosmenō)

Strong’s G4357: A compound verb combining πρός (toward, at) with μένω (remain, stay), meaning to remain with, continue with, or persevere. Used in both literal physical presence and metaphorical steadfast adherence, particularly in contexts of spiritual devotion and Christian fellowship.

U- Unveiling the Word

Προσμένω represents a profound concept of dedicated perseverance and steadfast commitment. As a compound word, it combines the preposition πρός (toward, facing) with the verb μένω (remain, abide), creating a rich image of intentional, forward-facing persistence. In New Testament usage, it carries both literal and metaphorical meanings – from physically staying with someone to spiritually remaining faithful to the Lord. The early church particularly emphasized this word in contexts of discipleship and communal devotion, highlighting the importance of sustained commitment in Christian faith. Today, προσμένω continues to speak to believers about the vital practice of persistent fellowship with both God and His people.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: προσμένω, prosmenō, /pros-ME-no/
• Detailed pronunciation: pros (as in ‘prose’) + ME (as in ‘may’) + no (as in ‘know’)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• πρός (pros-) – prefix meaning “toward, at, beside”
• μένω (menō) – root verb meaning “to remain, stay, abide”
  The prefix πρός adds directionality and intentionality to the base verb μένω, emphasizing active, purposeful continuance.

D – Defining Meanings

• To remain with someone or in a place
• To continue steadfastly in something
• To persist in adherence to something

For compound words:
The prefix πρός adds the notion of directed attention or movement toward something, while μένω contributes the core meaning of remaining or staying. Together, they create a sense of purposeful, directed persistence.

Translation Options:

1. “To continue with” – Best captures both physical and metaphorical presence
2. “To remain beside” – Emphasizes the spatial aspect and close relationship
3. “To persevere in” – Highlights the aspect of steadfast continuation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• παραμένω (paramenō, /pa-ra-ME-no/) – To remain beside, continue
  See G3887
• ἐπιμένω (epimenō, /e-pi-ME-no/) – To stay on, persist
  See G1961
• διαμένω (diamenō, /di-a-ME-no/) – To continue throughout, remain constantly
  See G1265

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, προσμένω exhibits these morphological features:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Imperfective (Present), Perfective (Aorist)

Example morphological variations:

• Present: προσμένω (I remain with)
• Future: προσμενῶ (I will remain with)
• Aorist: προσέμεινα (I remained with)

Related words in other parts of speech:

• προσμονή (prosmonē) – noun form meaning “a waiting for”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the word’s dual application to physical presence and spiritual steadfastness. Thayer’s highlights its use in contexts of loyalty and devotion. LSJ provides examples from classical Greek showing its development from purely physical presence to metaphorical persistence. Vine’s notes its special significance in Christian fellowship and discipleship. Strong’s emphasizes the compound nature and its intensified meaning. Moulton and Milligan provide papyri evidence of its use in personal relationships and business contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
“I have compassion on the crowd because they have been with me [προσμένω] now three days and have nothing to eat.” Matthew 15:32

Additional References:
Mark 8:2
Acts 11:23
Acts 13:43
Acts 18:18
1 Timothy 1:3
1 Timothy 5:5

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Προσμένω embodies the beautiful concept of steadfast continuation, whether in physical presence or spiritual devotion. It speaks to the heart of Christian discipleship – the calling to remain faithful to Christ and His church. This word reminds us that the good news of King Jesus isn’t just about initial belief but about continuing in faith, hope, and love. It emphasizes that true discipleship involves persistent fellowship with both God and His people.

D – Did You Know?

1. Προσμένω appears in ancient business contracts, indicating a binding commitment to stay and complete work.
2. Early Christian writers used this word to describe martyrs’ unwavering faith under persecution.
3. The word’s usage in Acts particularly emphasizes the importance of continuing in the grace of God after initial conversion.

Strong’s G4357: A compound verb combining πρός (toward, at) with μένω (remain, stay), meaning to remain with, continue with, or persevere. Used in both literal physical presence and metaphorical steadfast adherence, particularly in contexts of spiritual devotion and Christian fellowship.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: perseverance, faithfulness, commitment, discipleship, steadfastness, dedication, fellowship, remaining, continuation, Christian living​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​