Brief Overview of σθενόω (Strong’s G4599: sthenoō)

Strong’s G4599: A verb meaning “to strengthen, make strong,” derived from σθένος (strength). In its sole New Testament occurrence, it describes God’s action of strengthening believers, emphasizing divine empowerment for spiritual endurance and victorious Christian living.

U- Unveiling the Word

σθενόω represents divine empowerment and strengthening. Its only New Testament appearance in 1 Peter 5:10 occurs in a context of suffering and divine restoration, showing God’s role in strengthening His people. Early church writers emphasized this word when discussing God’s sustaining power in persecution. Today, it reminds us that spiritual strength comes from God’s empowering presence, especially in times of trial.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σθενόω, sthenoō, sthe-NO-oh
• Detailed pronunciation: stress on second syllable: ‘sthe’ as in strengthen, ‘NO’ as in know, ‘oh’ as in go
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• From σθένος (sthenos) – strength, might
• -όω (-oō): Causative verbal suffix meaning “to make or cause”

D – Defining Meanings

• To make strong
• To strengthen
• To empower

For compound words:
Not applicable as σθενόω is derived from σθένος with a verbal suffix

Translation Options:

• “To strengthen” – Most common translation
• “To empower” – Emphasizes enabling aspect
• “To make strong” – Highlights causative nature

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἐνδυναμόω (endunamoō, en-doo-na-MO-oh) – to strengthen See G1743
• κραταιόω (krataioō, kra-tai-O-oh) – to strengthen See G2901
• στηρίζω (stērizō, stay-RID-zo) – to establish See G4741

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

• Tense: Future
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative
• Person: 3rd
• Number: Singular
• Aspect: Punctiliar

Example conjugations:
Future: σθενώσει (he/she/it will strengthen)
Present: σθενόω (I strengthen)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes divine strengthening. Thayer’s connects it to physical and spiritual strength. LSJ documents its rare usage. Vine’s notes its unique appearance in Peter’s letter. Strong’s links it to enablement. Moulton-Milligan shows limited papyri evidence due to its rare usage.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” 1 Peter 5:10

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σθενόω reveals God’s active role in empowering believers for spiritual endurance. Its use in Peter’s letter reminds us that our strength comes not from ourselves but from God’s grace. This word points to Christ as our ultimate source of strength, encouraging us to depend on His power rather than our own resources.

D – Did You Know?

1. This verb is one of the rarest in the New Testament, appearing only once.
2. Early Christian martyrs often cited this verse for encouragement during persecution.
3. The word influenced early Christian discussions about divine empowerment.

Strong’s G4599: A verb meaning “to strengthen, make strong,” derived from σθένος (strength). In its sole New Testament occurrence, it describes God’s action of strengthening believers, emphasizing divine empowerment for spiritual endurance and victorious Christian living.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: strength, divine empowerment, spiritual power, Peter’s epistles, suffering, endurance, divine support, spiritual growth, persecution, Christian living, divine enabling, spiritual strength​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​