χράω (chraō)
chraō
to use
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb chraomai means to use or make use of something, often with a sense of exercising a right or employing a resource for a specific purpose. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts where individuals are deciding whether to utilize their freedom or privileges. For instance, Paul discusses how believers might "use" their liberty in 1 Corinthians 7:21 and 7:31, weighing practical benefits against spiritual considerations.
A key nuance is its application to interpersonal treatment. In Acts 27:3, the centurion is described as "using" or treating Paul with kindness during his journey to Rome. Similarly, in 2 Corinthians, Paul speaks of "exercising" or showing certain attitudes toward the Corinthian church (2 Corinthians 1:17; 3:12). This usage highlights a personal, active engagement with people or situations rather than passive observation.
The word often carries a pragmatic tone, focusing on the effective application of what is available. In 1 Timothy 5:23, Paul advises Timothy to "use" a little wine for his stomach's sake, illustrating a practical, health-oriented application. The term underscores intentionality: it is not merely having something, but actively employing it for a defined end, whether that be physical well-being, relational care, or the exercise of apostolic rights.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word chraomai reminds us that our lives are not meant to be static. It describes the active use of what we have—whether it is freedom, resources, or even physical health—for a specific and good purpose. In 1 Corinthians 7:31, Paul encourages believers to engage with the world without being consumed by it, using its gifts while keeping our hearts fixed on eternity. This balance allows us to participate fully in life without letting temporary things define us.
We also see this word applied to how we treat others and ourselves. In Acts 27:3, a centurion uses his authority to show kindness to Paul, demonstrating that power is best exercised with care. Similarly, in 1 Timothy 5:23, Paul advises Timothy to use wine for his health, showing that God cares about our physical well-being. This word invites us to be intentional stewards of every aspect of our lives, using what we have to build up ourselves and those around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- we use,1×
- we did use1×
- was treating1×
- using1×
- they were using1×
- shall use,1×
- have used1×
- do use1×
- do take advantage.1×
- did I use?1×
- I may treat [you]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐχρῶντο1×
- ἐχρησάμην,1×
- ἐχρησάμεθα1×
- χρῶ1×
- χρῆται,1×
- χρῆσαι.1×
- χρώμενοι1×
- χρώμεθα,1×
- χρήσωμαι1×
- χρησάμενος1×
- κέχρημαι1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 7:31
and those who use the world, as not using it to the fullest. For the mode of this world passes away.
Paul uses this word to describe engaging with the world's resources without letting them become our ultimate focus.
-
Acts 27:3
The next day, we touched at Sidon. Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him permission to go to his friends and refresh himself.
The centurion exercises his authority to treat Paul with kindness, showing how power should be used for care.
-
I Timothy 5:23
Be no longer a drinker of water only, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.
Paul advises practical self-care, illustrating that using available remedies is a wise part of Christian living.
-
I Corinthians 9:12
If others partake of this right over you, don’t we yet more? Nevertheless we didn’t use this right, but we bear all things, that we may cause no hindrance to the Good News of Christ.
Paul contrasts the right to receive support with his choice not to use that right to avoid hindering the Gospel.