ἐπιστηρίζω (epistērizō)
epistērizō
to strengthen
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb epistērizō means to strengthen or establish someone more firmly in their faith and character. It builds on the idea of standing firm by adding a prefix that suggests intensification, implying a deepening of stability rather than just initial support. In the New Testament, this word appears only four times, all within the Book of Acts, where it describes the apostolic ministry of encouraging believers during difficult times.
Its usage highlights the communal nature of spiritual growth. For instance, Paul and Barnabas strengthened the disciples in Acts 14:22, preparing them for inevitable hardships, while Silas and Judas encouraged others with a message that confirmed their faith (Acts 15:32). The word carries a sense of active, deliberate support, helping believers stand firm against external pressures or internal doubts. It is not merely passive comfort but an active reinforcement of resolve.
The term’s root combines the idea of standing with an intensifying force, suggesting that faith requires ongoing maintenance and reinforcement. Translators typically render it as "strengthen" or "encourage," capturing both the emotional and spiritual aspects of the act. This word reminds readers that Christian maturity is often built through the supportive efforts of others within the community of faith.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When life feels unstable or your confidence begins to waver, this word reminds you that spiritual growth rarely happens in isolation. The Greek term epistērizō describes an active process of strengthening someone’s resolve, much like reinforcing a structure so it can withstand pressure. In the early church, leaders did not just offer comfort; they deliberately built up the faith of others to help them endure hardship.
This concept invites us to look at our own communities with fresh eyes. We are called to be both those who receive support and those who provide it. By encouraging one another through difficult seasons, we create a network of resilience that helps everyone stand firm. It is a practical reminder that faith is strengthened through shared experience and mutual care.
Consider how Paul and Barnabas worked together to strengthen the disciples in Acts 14:22. They knew that following Jesus would involve afflictions, so they prepared believers for what lay ahead. This active encouragement helps us see that our struggles are not signs of failure, but opportunities for deeper stability when faced with the support of fellow believers.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- strengthening3×
- strengthened [them].1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπιστηρίζων2×
- ἐπιστηρίζοντες1×
- ἐπεστήριξαν.1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 14:22
strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that through many afflictions we must enter into God’s Kingdom.
This verse highlights the word's connection to enduring hardship, showing that strengthening is preparation for future trials rather than just immediate comfort.
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Acts 15:32
Judas and Silas, also being prophets themselves, encouraged the brothers with many words and strengthened them.
Here the act of strengthening is paired with prophetic speech, indicating that verbal affirmation and spiritual insight work together to build up the community.
-
Acts 18:23
Having spent some time there, he departed and went through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, in order, establishing all the disciples.
This occurrence emphasizes the repetitive nature of spiritual growth, as Paul travels through regions specifically to establish disciples who may have already been converted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does epistērizō mean in the New Testament?
How is this word different from general encouragement?
Why does this word appear only in the Book of Acts?
Every Occurrence (4 verses across 1 books)
Acts 4 verses
strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that through many afflictions we…
Acts 15:32Judas and Silas, also being prophets themselves, encouraged the brothers with many words and strengthened them.
Acts 15:41He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the assemblies.
Acts 18:23Having spent some time there, he departed and went through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, in order, establishing…