στερεός (stereos)
stereos
strong
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective stereos describes something that is solid, firm, or hard to the touch. Its physical sense conveys density and stability, often used to distinguish substantial material from the soft or yielding. In a metaphorical context, it carries this weight into the realm of character and belief, indicating a quality that resists change or pressure.
Scripture uses this term with notable nuance. It can describe a stubborn hardness of heart, as seen in the warning against spiritual dullness in Hebrews 5:12-14 where readers are called to move beyond basic teachings. Conversely, it praises steadfast faithfulness, such as when Peter encourages believers to stand firm in their trust (1 Peter 5:9) or when Paul references the unshakable foundation of God’s purpose (2 Timothy 2:19). The word captures both the rigidity of resistance and the strength of resolve.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word stereos describes something solid and firm, like a sturdy foundation or mature food that nourishes rather than merely satisfies hunger. In your spiritual walk, this imagery invites you to grow into a faith that can withstand pressure. Just as physical strength comes from consistent use, spiritual resilience develops through engaging with deeper truths over time.
When challenges arise, you are encouraged to stand firm in your trust, knowing that God’s purpose remains unshakable. This stability is not about rigid stubbornness but about a grounded confidence rooted in who God is. It offers comfort when circumstances feel uncertain, reminding us that our hope rests on a foundation that cannot be moved.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the firm1×
- solid1×
- of solid1×
- firm1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- στερεᾶς1×
- στερεὸς1×
- στερεὰ1×
- στερεοὶ1×
Key Verses
-
II Timothy 2:19
However, God’s firm foundation stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let every one who names the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.”
This verse highlights the word's use to describe God's unshakable foundation, providing assurance of His sovereign knowledge and purpose.
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Hebrews 5:14
But solid food is for those who are full grown, who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil.
Here the term distinguishes mature believers who have trained their discernment through practice from those still needing basic instruction.
-
I Peter 5:9
Withstand him steadfast in your faith, knowing that your brothers who are in the world are undergoing the same sufferings.
Peter uses this concept to urge believers to remain steadfast in faith during suffering, sharing in the common experience of the global church.