NAS Word Usage – Total: 30

1. to hope
   1. in a religious sense, to wait for salvation with joy and full confidence
2. hopefully to trust in

The Etymology of Elpizo

Before delving into its biblical significance, let’s first look at the etymology of “Elpizo.” The root word is “Elpis,” which means “hope” or “expectation.” Elpizo is the verb form, thus carrying the sense of “to hope” or “to expect.” Unlike the English word “hope,” which often implies a sense of uncertainty, Elpizo in Greek carries a stronger connotation of confident expectation. This difference is crucial for understanding its usage in the Bible.

Elpizo in the Old Testament Context

Though Elpizo is a Greek word found in the New Testament, it has strong ties to concepts found in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). In the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, Elpizo is often used to translate Hebrew words for trust and hope, like “batach” (trust) and “yachal” (hope). For instance, Psalm 33:18 says, “But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope (Elpizo) is in His unfailing love.”

In this context, Elpizo signifies a secure and confident expectation in God’s love and actions, not merely a wish or a desire. It paints a picture of waiting with assured anticipation, knowing that God is faithful and will fulfill His promises.

Elpizo in the New Testament Context

In the New Testament, Elpizo appears numerous times and frequently plays a central role in passages focused on faith and salvation. For example, Romans 8:24-25 states, “For in this hope (Elpizo) we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope (Elpizo) for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”

The Expectation of Salvation

Paul’s letters frequently discuss the concept of salvation as something we confidently hope for. Elpizo here is essentially synonymous with faith. It is not merely an optimistic outlook but a firm trust in the accomplishment of God’s redemptive work. In 1 Timothy 4:10, Paul writes, “That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope (Elpizo) in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.”

Hope and Assurance

One of the most profound aspects of Christian faith is the assurance it brings. Hebrews 11:1 famously states, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope (Elpizo) for and assurance about what we do not see.” Here, Elpizo is not a passive waiting but an active, confident reliance on God’s promises. It assures us of what is to come, even though we do not yet see it with our eyes.

The Role of Elpizo in Christian Living

Understanding Elpizo provides a framework for how Christians are to live their lives. Believers are called to live with a confident expectation in God’s promises, which affects their attitudes, decisions, and actions. In 1 Peter 1:13, believers are encouraged: “Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope (Elpizo) on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.”

Biblical Characters and Elpizo

The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who embody the concept of Elpizo. Take Abraham, for example. Romans 4:18 captures this: “Against all hope (Elpizo), Abraham in hope (Elpizo) believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, ‘So shall your offspring be.'” Despite his and Sarah’s old age, Abraham had confident expectation in God’s promise of descendants as numerous as the stars. His unwavering faith serves as an example for all believers.

The Transformative Power of Elpizo

Living with Elpizo transforms not just individual lives, but entire communities. When a group of people collectively places their trust and hope in God’s promises, it creates a resilient community grounded in faith. This collective hope becomes a source of strength and unity, helping the community to withstand trials and tribulations.

Elpizo and Modern Applications

The concept of Elpizo is not just an ancient idea but has practical applications for modern believers. It challenges us to examine where we place our hope. In a world filled with uncertainty, from economic instability to global pandemics, placing our Elpizo in God provides a solid foundation. By expecting God’s action and relying on His promises, we find a sense of peace and purpose that transcends worldly troubles.

Elpizo and Jesus’ Teachings

Jesus Himself taught about this kind of hope, though He didn’t often use the word Elpizo directly. In many parables and teachings, Jesus called for a trust in God’s kingdom and His divine plans. For instance, in Matthew 6:31-33, Jesus says, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Though the word Elpizo isn’t used here, the message is clear: have confident expectation in God’s provision.

Conclusion

The word Elpizo transcends the basic idea of hope as it is commonly understood. Rooted in the Greek language and enriched by its biblical context, Elpizo embodies a profound and confident expectation rooted in faith and trust in God. From Old Testament promises to New Testament assurances, Elpizo plays a crucial role in how believers understand their relationship with God and His promises.

Understanding what Elpizo means in Greek in the context of the Bible allows us to appreciate the depth of biblical hope. It encourages us to live lives marked by firm trust and confident expectation in God’s faithfulness. Whether facing personal challenges or global uncertainties, Elpizo beckons us to anchor our hope in the never-failing promises of God.