NAS Word Usage – Total: 8

1. to bring into, in or to
2. to lead into

What is “Eisphero”?

“Eisphero” (εἰσφέρω) is a Greek verb that can be generally translated to mean “to bring into” or “to lead into.” The word is a compound of “eis” (meaning “into”) and “phero” (meaning “to carry” or “to bring”). It appears several times in the New Testament and has a variety of connotations depending on the context in which it is used.

Biblical Usage of “Eisphero”

The word “Eisphero” is not among the most frequently used terms in the Bible, but when it does appear, it is significant. Let’s examine a few notable instances.

The Lord’s Prayer

One of the most well-known occurrences of “Eisphero” is in the Lord’s Prayer found in Matthew 6:13 and Luke 11:4. In this context, Jesus teaches his disciples to pray, saying, “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” Here, “Eisphero” is used in the phrase “lead us not into,” which translates to “bring us not into” in contemporary English.

This usage has sparked much theological debate over the centuries. Some scholars argue that it implies a plea for God to prevent believers from being led into situations where they might be tempted to sin. Others suggest that it means asking for divine help in avoiding harmful circumstances.

The Healing of a Paralytic

Another example is found in Luke 5:18-19, where “Eisphero” is used in the narrative of the healing of a paralytic man. The verses describe how some men brought their paralyzed friend to Jesus. Unable to reach Him due to the crowd, they “lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus.”

Here, “Eisphero” is used to describe the physical act of bringing the paralyzed man into the presence of Jesus. This illustrates how the verb can be used in a literal sense to describe the action of carrying someone or something into a particular place.

Warnings of Jesus

In Matthew 26:41, Jesus uses a form of “Eisphero” when He warns His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane to “pray that you will not fall into temptation.” In this case, the verb “Eisphero” is used figuratively to describe the act of encountering a challenging or tempting situation.

Theological Implications of “Eisphero”

Understanding the meaning of “Eisphero” can help provide deeper insights into certain biblical texts and themes. It also allows for a broader understanding of the relationship between divine guidance and human agency.

Divine Guidance

The use of “Eisphero” in the Lord’s Prayer has a profound theological implication. It portrays a relationship between the believer and God, one in which the believer actively seeks God’s guidance to avoid moral and spiritual pitfalls. This is more than just a plea for protection; it is a request for God to play an active role in one’s spiritual journey.

Human Agency

While “Eisphero” often highlights divine involvement in guiding believers, it also underscores a human element of participation. For example, the friends of the paralytic man actively bring him to Jesus. This illustrates that human actions, inspired by faith and compassion, play a critical role in fulfilling God’s will.

The Nature of Temptation

The frequent use of “Eisphero” concerning temptation offers a broader understanding of how the Bible views the challenges that believers face. It shows a recognition of human vulnerability and the need for divine help to overcome life’s difficulties and moral tests.

Conclusion

“Eisphero” might not be a word that comes up frequently in everyday conversation, but its use in the New Testament provides valuable insights into the biblical text. By understanding what “Eisphero” means in Greek and its context in the Bible, readers gain a richer appreciation for the nuances of Scripture.

In summary, the term “Eisphero” serves as an important reminder of the interconnected roles of divine guidance and human effort in the journey of faith. Whether it is seen in the Lord’s Prayer, the healing stories, or the warnings of Jesus, this word carries significant theological weight. Studying such terms, even those that might seem minor at first glance, can unlock new layers of meaning and deepen our understanding of the Bible’s timeless message.

So, the next time you read the Bible and come across passages that mention being “led into” or “brought into” something, remember the word “Eisphero.” By doing so, you’ll be engaging more deeply with the text and uncovering the rich linguistic and theological tapestry that forms the foundation of biblical scripture.