μεθίστημι (methistēmi)
methistēmi
to move
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb methistēmi describes the act of moving something or someone from one place to another. It carries a sense of physical displacement or transfer, often implying a change in location, status, or even life itself. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts ranging from literal removal to metaphorical shifts in standing.
A striking example occurs in Acts 13:22, where Paul recounts how God removed David from his position as king to bring up Jesse’s son instead. This usage highlights the word’s application to changing human offices or roles. Similarly, in Luke 16:4, the dishonest steward plans to have his masters remove him from his current duties, showing the passive experience of being displaced.
The term also appears in 1 Corinthians 13:2, where Paul uses it metaphorically to describe moving mountains. Here, it signifies a dramatic shift or removal of obstacles, emphasizing the power involved in such a change. Colossians 1:13 further illustrates this by speaking of believers being transferred from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of Christ, marking a profound spiritual relocation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word methistēmi reminds us that our lives are not fixed in stone but are held in the hands of God. It describes a movement from one place to another, whether it is a physical relocation or a shift in status. In Colossians 1:13, Paul uses this concept to describe the great change God performs in believers, moving us from darkness into the light of Christ’s kingdom. This is not a small adjustment but a complete transfer of our home and allegiance.
Even when we face personal displacement, like losing a job or a role we valued, this word offers a different perspective. In Acts 13:22, God removed David from his royal duties to prepare for a greater purpose. We may feel uprooted in difficult seasons, but these moments can be part of a larger divine plan. God is able to move mountains, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13:2, clearing obstacles we cannot see.
Rest in the truth that your position is secure in Him. Whether you are experiencing a sudden change or a gradual shift, He is faithful to guide your steps. You are never alone in transition, for He who moved you into His kingdom will continue to sustain you there.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- transferred [us]1×
- to remove,1×
- he has turned away1×
- having removed1×
- I may have been removed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μετέστησεν2×
- μεταστήσας1×
- μετασταθῶ1×
- μεθιστάναι,1×
Key Verses
-
Colossians 1:13
who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the Kingdom of the Son of his love,
This verse highlights the most significant spiritual application of the word, describing believers being transferred from the power of darkness into Christ's kingdom.
-
Acts 13:22
When he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, to whom he also testified, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my heart, who will do all my will.’
Here the word illustrates God's sovereign right to remove a leader from office to fulfill His specific will through another chosen vessel.