ἐξακολουθέω (exakoloutheō)
exakoloutheō
to follow
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb exakoloutheō means to follow closely, often implying a thorough or complete pursuit. While it shares a root with the common word for following (akoloutheō), the prefix ex- adds a sense of intensity or completion. It suggests not just walking behind someone, but treading in their exact steps or fully complying with their lead.
In the New Testament, this word appears only three times, all within the Second Epistle of Peter. The author uses it to describe false teachers who closely imitate destructive behaviors. For instance, Peter warns that these individuals will follow in the footsteps of Balaam (2 Peter 2:15), highlighting a deliberate and thorough adherence to a corrupt path rather than a casual association.
The term carries significant weight because it implies imitation with intent. It is not merely observing from a distance but actively adopting the mannerisms and authority of another. This usage underscores the seriousness of spiritual deviation, where followers do not just err slightly but fully embrace the wrong direction set by their leaders.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word exakoloutheō paints a picture of intense, deliberate pursuit. It is not a casual stroll behind someone but a thorough adherence to their path. In 2 Peter, this term warns against those who fully embrace the destructive steps of false teachers like Balaam. Their imitation is complete, leaving no room for ambiguity about where their loyalty lies.
For your faith, this offers a sobering reminder that influence matters deeply. We are always following someone—whether it is the wisdom of the world or the example of Christ. The choice we make determines whose footsteps we tread and what direction our lives take. It invites us to examine who leads us with honesty and care.
May you find strength in choosing a path that honors God. Let your life be a steady witness to truth, guided by those who point others toward Jesus rather than away from Him. This clarity brings peace and purpose to every step you take.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- having followed2×
- will follow after1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐξακολουθήσαντες2×
- ἐξακολουθήσουσιν1×
Key Verses
-
II Peter 2:15
Forsaking the right way, they went astray, having followed the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of wrongdoing;
This verse highlights the deliberate imitation of Balaam’s corrupt path, showing how exakoloutheō emphasizes a complete adherence to wrongdoing rather than a slight deviation.
-
II Peter 2:2
Many will follow their immoral ways, and as a result, the way of the truth will be maligned.
Here, the word describes many people following immoral ways, illustrating how this intense pursuit leads others astray and brings disrepute to the truth.
-
II Peter 1:16
For we didn’t follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
Although this verse uses a different form of 'follow,' it contrasts genuine eyewitness testimony with deceptive practices, underscoring the importance of following what is true and real.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does exakoloutheō mean?
How is exakoloutheō different from akoloutheō?
Where does this word appear in the Bible?
Why is this word significant for Christians today?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
II Peter 3 verses
For we didn’t follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ,…
II Peter 2:2Many will follow their immoral ways, and as a result, the way of the truth will be maligned.
II Peter 2:15Forsaking the right way, they went astray, having followed the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of…