στηριγμός (stērigmos)
stērigmos
security
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun stērigmos describes a state of being firmly fixed or securely established. Derived from the verb for "to make firm," it conveys more than simple stability; it suggests an unshakeable condition, like a structure anchored deeply into the ground. In its single biblical occurrence in 2 Peter 3:17, the word characterizes the spiritual security of believers who are kept steady against false teaching.
This term emphasizes steadfastness rather than passive rest. It implies that faith is held in place by divine support, preventing it from swaying under pressure. Translators often render it as "security" or "firmness," capturing the sense of being locked into a reliable truth. The word appears only here in the New Testament, highlighting its specific role in describing the resilience required to remain faithful.
Its usage underscores that Christian perseverance is not self-generated but rooted in God’s sustaining power. By linking steadfastness to divine action, the text assures readers that their spiritual footing is secure. This single instance reinforces the broader biblical theme that true stability comes from being anchored in Christ, rather than relying on shifting human opinions.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word stērigmos paints a picture of something firmly anchored, like a building set deep into solid bedrock rather than resting on shifting sand. In 2 Peter 3:17, this term describes the spiritual security that keeps believers steady when false teachings try to pull them off course. It suggests that our faith is not left to sway with every new opinion or cultural pressure, but is held fast by divine support.
This assurance brings great comfort to your daily walk. You do not have to generate this stability through sheer willpower or constant self-monitoring. Instead, the text points to a reality where God’s sustaining power keeps your footing firm. When challenges arise or confusing doctrines appear, you can rest in the knowledge that your spiritual foundation is secure because it is anchored in Christ.
Let this truth encourage you today. Rather than worrying about maintaining your own steadfastness, focus on abiding in the truth you have been taught. The same power that secures your faith is actively at work within you, providing a steady ground for your hope and trust.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- steadfastness,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- στηριγμοῦ,1×
Key Verses
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II Peter 3:17
You therefore, beloved, knowing these things beforehand, beware, lest being carried away with the error of the wicked, you fall from your own steadfastness.
This verse uses the word to warn believers against falling from their own steadfastness, highlighting that true security involves being kept firm against external errors.