Lexical Summary ekphobeó: To terrify, to frighten greatly Original Word: ἐκφοβέω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance terrify. From ek and phobeo; to frighten utterly -- terrify. see GREEK ek see GREEK phobeo HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 1629 ekphobéō – properly, frighten out of (one's wits), used only in 2 Cor 10:9. See 1630 (ekphobos). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom ek and phobeó Definition to frighten away NASB Translation terrify (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1629: ἐκφοβέωἐκφοβέω, ἐκφοβω; to frighten away, to terri; to throw into violent fright: τινα, 2 Corinthians 10:9. (Deuteronomy 28:26; Zephaniah 3:13, etc.; Thucydides, Plato, others.) Topical Lexicon Overview of the ConceptGreek 1629 appears once in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 10:9, where Paul states, “I do not want to seem to be trying to frighten you with my letters”. The verb conveys an intensive idea of causing alarm or intimidation. Because it is a hapax legomenon, the single occurrence shines a concentrated light on Paul’s pastoral style and his theology of authority and correction. Scriptural Context in 2 Corinthians 10 2 Corinthians 10–13 contains Paul’s firmest self-defense of his apostolic ministry. Some in Corinth had accused him of being bold and severe in writing yet weak in person (2 Corinthians 10:10). Paul answers by stressing that any strength he shows—whether by letter or in person—is aimed at building up, not tearing down (2 Corinthians 13:10). His statement in verse 9 clarifies his motive: the goal is not to terrify but to edify. Thus, the single use of the verb serves as a rhetorical boundary marker, distinguishing godly admonition from manipulative intimidation. Relation to the Biblical Theology of Fear 1. Holy reverence versus sinful dread 2. Apostolic authority tempered by gentleness Pastoral and Ministerial Implications • Motivation in preaching and discipline Elders and teachers must guard against exploiting emotional pressure. Admonition is legitimate (2 Timothy 4:2), but it must point hearers to Christ, not to human controllers. Modern ministry often relies on letters, e-mails, and social media. Paul’s concern warns against hiding behind written boldness that one would never embody face to face. Integrity demands consistency. The entire Corinthian correspondence shows discipline aiming at restoration (2 Corinthians 2:6–8). Any fear stirred should lead to repentance, reconciliation, and renewed obedience. Historical Reception Early church commentators such as John Chrysostom emphasized Paul’s humility: though he possessed authority to judge, he preferred persuasion. Medieval and Reformation writers echoed that theme, urging pastors to let Scripture, not personality, carry convicting weight. In modern missions, this verse often surfaces in discussions about contextualization—adapting one’s tone and method so that hearers grasp truth without undue cultural offense. Practical Application for Today • Examine motives when issuing correction: is the intent to protect and purify (Ephesians 5:27) or to dominate? Summary The solitary use of Greek 1629 in 2 Corinthians 10:9 anchors a critical pastoral principle: godly leaders must never weaponize fear. Apostolic firmness, exercised within the bounds of love, seeks transformation rather than terror. When the church embraces that balance, it reflects the character of the Good Shepherd, whose voice may rebuke but always guides His flock toward life. Forms and Transliterations εκφοβειν εκφοβείν ἐκφοβεῖν εκφοβείς εκφοβών εξεφοβήθησαν ekphobein ekphobeînLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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