1. to follow (close) upon, follow after
2. to tread in one’s footsteps i.e. to imitate his example

When exploring the words of the Bible, we often come across terms that hold deeper meanings than their simple English translations. One such term is Epakoloutheo. This Greek word is significant in understanding the concept of discipleship and how it plays a crucial role in our relationship with Jesus Christ. In this article, we will dive deep into what Epakoloutheo means in Greek in the context of the Bible, its origins, usage, and implications for believers today.

The Greek Language and Its Influence on Christianity

To comprehend what Epakoloutheo means, it’s essential first to grasp the importance of the Greek language in the early Christian church. The New Testament was primarily written in Greek, and understanding the original language provides insights that English translations may overlook. Each Greek word carries nuance, often entwined with cultural and historical context, which can alter our perception of biblical teachings.

The Definition of Epakoloutheo

Epakoloutheo (ἐπακολουθέω) is a compound Greek word, formed from two parts: “epi,” meaning “upon” or “addition,” and “akoloutheo,” meaning “to follow.” Put together, Epakoloutheo suggests a following that is more than just a simple act of walking behind someone; it means to follow closely, to accompany, and to embrace the teachings and lifestyle of the one being followed.

In the New Testament, Epakoloutheo is used in various contexts to describe the relationship between Jesus and His disciples. It signifies an active and committed following, suggesting that those who choose to follow Christ are not just casual observers but are engaged participants in His mission.

Biblical Instances of Epakoloutheo

To fully grasp what Epakoloutheo means in context, it is helpful to look at specific instances within the New Testament where this term is employed.

Matthew 4:18-19

In this passage, Jesus calls Peter and Andrew, saying, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” The use of “follow” here relates to Epakoloutheo, which reflects an invitation to not only learn from Jesus but also to participate in His ministry. The disciples leave their fishing nets behind to closely align their lives with His mission.

Luke 9:23

Here, Jesus tells His followers, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” The command to “follow” captures the essence of Epakoloutheo. It indicates that true discipleship requires dedication and sacrifice, as followers must commit fully to the teachings and example of Christ, not just in thought but through action.

John 21:19

In this passage, Jesus tells Peter, “Follow me,” after asking about John’s future. Epakoloutheo here signifies not just physical following but a spiritual commitment and direction in life. It shows us that following Jesus means living a life that reflects His teachings and purposes.

Epakoloutheo in the Context of Discipleship

Epakoloutheo, therefore, carries the weight of what it means to be a disciple. Discipleship in the early church involved a commitment to learning, following, and practicing the teachings of Jesus, similar to how students would follow a rabbi closely. This close following meant not just admiration but a fundamental transformation of one’s life to align with what the teacher represented.

The Call to Action

In modern contexts, understanding Epakoloutheo underscores the call to action for Christians today. It challenges believers to evaluate what it truly means to follow Jesus. Are we merely interested spectators, or are we committed participants in His mission?

The Community Aspect of Epakoloutheo

Following Jesus in the Epakoloutheo sense also implies a community aspect. The early followers often traveled together, creating a sense of fellowship and support among believers. It highlights the importance of being part of a community that encourages and strengthens one another as they endeavor to follow Christ.

Challenges in Epakoloutheo

While the call to Epakoloutheo is clear, it is not without challenges.

Cultural Barriers

In today’s world, cultural barriers present a significant challenge to discipleship. Many individuals express a desire to follow Jesus but struggle with societal norms, peer pressure, and differing values. Understanding Epakoloutheo reminds Christians that following Christ may require them to stand apart from societal expectations.

Personal Sacrifice

Following Jesus can also demand personal sacrifice. Many people find it difficult to put aside their ambitions, desires, and even relationships for the sake of aligning their lives with Jesus. The concept of Epakoloutheo calls us to evaluate those priorities and make choices that reflect our commitment to Christ.

Living Out Epakoloutheo Today

So how do we live out Epakoloutheo in our lives today? Here are some practical ways to embrace this model of discipleship:

Daily Devotion

First and foremost, engaging in daily devotion through prayer and Bible study fosters a closer relationship with Christ, allowing His teachings to shape our thoughts and actions. Reflecting on passages where Epakoloutheo appears can provide insight into how we can follow more closely.

Community Involvement

Joining a community of believers is also vital. Engaging in fellowship activities, participating in church services, and joining study groups can create an environment where followers support each other in their journey with Christ.

Service to Others

Finally, serving others in our community is a practical expression of Epakoloutheo. Whether through volunteer work, acts of kindness, or evangelism, showing love as Christ did is a central aspect of being His disciple.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Epakoloutheo is a powerful term that encapsulates the essence of following Jesus in the New Testament. By understanding what Epakoloutheo means in Greek in the context of the Bible, we can better appreciate the depth of Christian discipleship. It calls for an intimate, committed following that transforms how we view our lives in relation to Jesus and the world around us. Following Him is a journey that invites us to embrace His teachings, join a community of believers, and actively serve those around us. It invites every believer to ask themselves: What does it truly mean for me to follow Christ today?