ὑπηρετέω (hupēreteō)
hupēreteō
to serve
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hupēreteō carries the concrete image of serving as a rower on a ship. Its root refers to the person who rows beneath the deck, supporting the captain’s command with physical effort. In classical usage this was a literal nautical role, but in the New Testament it shifts to a metaphor for ministering to others.
Scripture uses this word to describe practical service rendered to people. Paul speaks of his own labor as serving the congregation at Thessalonica (Acts 20:34), and notes that Felix heard about the faith while being served by a certain Jew (Acts 24:23). The term emphasizes humble, supportive action rather than authoritative leadership.
Its theological weight lies in this reversal of status. While leaders give orders, the hupēretēs works behind the scenes to enable the mission. This distinction highlights that true ministry often involves unseen, sustained effort. The word reminds readers that service is not merely about presence but about active, supportive labor for the benefit of others.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word hupēreteō paints a vivid picture of life at sea. It originally described a rower working beneath the deck, using physical strength to keep the ship moving under the captain’s direction. This image helps us understand that true service is often unseen and strenuous. It is not about standing in the spotlight but about providing the steady effort that allows the mission to succeed.
In the New Testament, this term shifts from nautical labor to spiritual ministry. Paul used it to describe how his own hands worked to support himself and others, ensuring he was not a burden to those he served. This reminds us that caring for practical needs is a holy act. When we meet the daily requirements of those around us, we participate in this humble, supportive work.
Service does not require a title or public recognition. It asks only for willingness to labor behind the scenes. Whether you are supporting a friend in need or meeting the basic necessities of another, your effort matters deeply. God sees the quiet strength used to sustain others, and He values the faithful rower who keeps the ship on course.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to minister1×
- ministered to1×
- having served1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑπηρέτησαν1×
- ὑπηρετήσας1×
- ὑπηρετεῖν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 20:34
You yourselves know that these hands served my necessities, and those who were with me.
Paul uses this word to highlight his personal, hands-on labor to support himself and his companions, showing that ministry includes practical self-sufficiency.
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Acts 13:36
For David, after he had in his own generation served the counsel of God, fell asleep, was laid with his fathers, and saw decay.
The term describes David’s faithful fulfillment of God’s specific plan during his lifetime, linking service to enduring divine purpose.
-
Acts 24:23
He ordered the centurion that Paul should be kept in custody and should have some privileges, and not to forbid any of his friends to serve him or to visit him.
This occurrence shows the word applied to allowing friends to attend to Paul’s needs while in custody, emphasizing care for a prisoner's welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does hupēreteō mean in the Bible?
How is this word different from other words for servant?
Where does this word appear in Scripture?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Acts 3 verses
For David, after he had in his own generation served the counsel of God, fell asleep, was laid with his fathers, and…
Acts 20:34You yourselves know that these hands served my necessities, and those who were with me.
Acts 24:23He ordered the centurion that Paul should be kept in custody and should have some privileges, and not to forbid any of…