Divine Call: φωνέω (Strong’s G5455: phōneō) Summons Hearts to Jesus

Strong’s G5455: A verb meaning “to call, summon, or emit a sound,” derived from φωνή (voice). Used of both human and divine calling, especially in contexts of invitation, proclamation, and supernatural summoning. Carries significant theological weight in Gospel narratives.

U- Unveiling the Word

φωνέω represents more than just a simple vocal utterance – it embodies the powerful act of calling forth with purpose and authority. In the New Testament, this word frequently appears in contexts where Jesus calls disciples, summons individuals for healing, or when divine purposes are being fulfilled. The word carries a sense of urgency and authority that transcends mere speaking. Early church fathers often used this term to describe God’s calling of individuals to salvation and service. Today, this word reminds us that God’s call continues to resonate through time, cutting through the noise of our modern world with divine clarity and purpose.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: φωνέω, phōneō, /foˈneō/
• Pronunciation Guide: fo (as in “foe”) + NEH + oh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: φωνή (phōnē) – voice, sound
• Suffix: -έω (-eō) – verbal suffix indicating ongoing action
• Function: Forms a denominative verb meaning “to use one’s voice, to call”

D – Defining Meanings

• To emit a sound or voice
• To call someone by name
• To summon or invite
• To cry out or proclaim

For compound words:
Not applicable as φωνέω is not a compound word

Translation Options:

• “to call” – best captures both the vocal and purposeful aspects
• “to summon” – emphasizes the authoritative nature
• “to cry out” – highlights the emotional or urgent aspects

E – Exploring Similar Words

• καλέω (kaleō, /ka·leh·o/) – more general term for calling – See G2564
• κράζω (krazō, /krad·zo/) – more emphatic, often for crying out – See G2896
• βοάω (boaō, /bo·ah·o/) – specifically for shouting – See G994

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, φωνέω exhibits:

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

Example morphological changes:

• φωνῶ – I call (present active indicative)
• ἐφώνησα – I called (aorist active indicative)
• φωνήσω – I will call (future active indicative)

Related words:

• φωνή (noun) – voice
• φώνημα (noun) – sound, utterance

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The richness of φωνέω is evident across lexical sources. BDAG emphasizes its use in both secular and sacred contexts, noting its special significance in divine-human interactions. Thayer’s highlights its connection to the Hebrew קָרָא (qara), suggesting theological continuity between Old and New Testaments. LSJ provides evidence of its broad semantic range in classical Greek, while Vine’s emphasizes its use in miraculous contexts. Moulton and Milligan’s papyri research reveals its common usage in everyday life, showing how the New Testament authors employed a familiar term to convey profound spiritual truths. The word consistently carries connotations of authority and purpose beyond mere vocalization.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
And Jesus stood still, and [called] {φωνέω} them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you? Matthew 20:32

Additional References:
Mark 1:26, Luke 8:8, John 1:48, John 11:28, Acts 9:41, Acts 10:18

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

φωνέω embodies the powerful concept of divine calling in the New Testament. Whether it’s Jesus calling disciples, summoning Lazarus from the tomb, or the Father’s voice from heaven, this word carries the weight of divine authority and purpose. The good news shines through this word as it reminds us that the Messiah still calls people today – not just with a mere voice, but with transforming power that raises dead souls to life and summons hearts to follow Him. This calling is both an invitation and a command, reflecting the sovereign grace of our King Jesus.

D – Did You Know?

• φωνέω is used in the miraculous account of Lazarus’ resurrection, emphasizing Jesus’ authority over death
• The word appears in all four Gospels in unique contexts of Jesus’ ministry
• Ancient Greek medical writers used this term to describe the first cry of a newborn baby

Strong’s G5455: A verb meaning “to call, summon, or emit a sound,” derived from φωνή (voice). Used of both human and divine calling, especially in contexts of invitation, proclamation, and supernatural summoning. Carries significant theological weight in Gospel narratives.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: calling, voice, summon, proclaim, divine-call, invitation, Jesus-calling, resurrection, authority, gospel-truth​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​