μέτρον (metron)
metron
measure
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 12 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun metron refers to a standard of measurement, whether it is a physical vessel for dry goods or liquid, or a graduated rod used to determine length. In the New Testament, this concrete object often serves as a vivid metaphor for spiritual principles. For instance, Jesus uses the image of a measuring vessel to describe how generosity returns to the giver in Luke 6:38, while Revelation employs a measuring rod to symbolize God’s protection and assessment of the holy city in chapter 21.
Beyond physical dimensions, the word signifies a determined portion or limit assigned by divine authority. Paul utilizes this sense when discussing spiritual gifts, noting that each believer receives a specific measure of faith or grace according to Christ’s distribution (Romans 12:3; Ephesians 4:7). This usage emphasizes that every Christian’s role and capacity are intentionally calibrated, rather than random or arbitrary.
Translators typically render metron as "measure," "portion," or "standard." The term carries theological weight by suggesting order and intentionality in creation and redemption. It reminds readers that spiritual life operates within defined boundaries set by God, providing both structure for community growth and assurance that each person’s contribution is valued and measured with precision.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word metron describes a standard unit for measuring length, volume, or weight. In everyday life, we use rulers and scales to ensure fairness and accuracy. The New Testament uses this concrete image to teach us about spiritual reality. It reminds us that God’s world is not chaotic; it is ordered with intention and care.
Jesus used the idea of a measure to show how generosity works in our relationships. When we give freely, we create space for blessing to return to us (Luke 6:38). At the same time, Paul explains that God gives each believer a specific metron of faith and grace (Romans 12:3). This means your spiritual capacity is not an accident. It is a gift calibrated by Christ for your unique role in the church.
This truth brings comfort. You do not need to compare your progress with others or worry that you are insufficient. God has assigned you a portion that fits perfectly within His plan. Whether you are serving in a small way or leading many, your contribution is measured with precision and valued by Him. Trust that the One who gave you your measure also sustains you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 12 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- measure7×
- [the] measure3×
- a measure2×
- a measuring1×
- Measure1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μέτρον8×
- μέτρῳ4×
- μέτρου2×
Key Verses
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Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be given to you. For with the same measure you measure it will be measured back to you.”
Jesus uses the image of a pressed-down measure to illustrate that generous giving creates room for God's abundant return.
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Romans 12:3
For I say through the grace that was given me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think; but to think reasonably, as God has apportioned to each person a measure of faith.
Paul clarifies that each person receives a specific measure of faith from God, grounding humility in divine allocation rather than self-assessment.
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Ephesians 4:7
But to each one of us, the grace was given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
This verse establishes that grace is distributed to every believer according to the precise measure of Christ's gift, ensuring no one is left out.
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Revelation of John 21:15
He who spoke with me had for a measure a golden reed to measure the city, its gates, and its walls.
The angel uses a golden reed to measure the New Jerusalem, symbolizing that God’s holy presence has defined and secure boundaries.