Lexical Summary anekleiptos: Unfailing, unceasing Original Word: ἀνέκλειπτος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance unfailing.From a (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of ekleipo; not left out, i.e. (by implication) inexhaustible -- that faileth not. see GREEK a see GREEK ekleipo HELPS Word-studies 413 anékleiptos (from 1 /A "not" and 1587 /ekleípō, "to fail") – properly, not left behind, describing what will not give out, cease (fail to perform). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom alpha (as a neg. prefix) and ekleipó Definition unfailing NASB Translation unfailing (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 413: ἀνέκλειπτοςἀνέκλειπτος, ἀνέκλειπτον (alpha privative and ἐκλείπω to fail), unfailing: Luke 12:33. ((Hyperides, p. 58a, Teubner edition); Diodorus 4, 84; 1, 36, cf. 3, 16; Plutarch, de orac. defect., p. 438 d., and in ecclesiastical writings.) Topical Lexicon Entry Summary Strong’s Greek 413 highlights the Lord’s promise of an unfailing, inexhaustible treasure reserved in heaven for those who belong to Him. The term appears once in the New Testament, in Luke 12:33, where Jesus contrasts perishable, earthly wealth with eternal riches that can never diminish. Biblical Occurrence and Immediate Context Luke 12:33 records Jesus’ exhortation: “Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide yourselves purses that will not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.” (Berean Standard Bible). Positioned within a discourse on anxiety and dependence on God (Luke 12:22-34), the phrase “unfailing treasure” underscores that heavenly wealth is immune to decay, theft, and loss. Jesus ties generosity on earth to a secure, inexhaustible deposit in eternity. Theological Significance 1. Divine Reliability. By describing heavenly treasure as unfailing, Jesus affirms God’s unwavering faithfulness (Numbers 23:19; Hebrews 10:23). Old Testament Background and Parallels Although the precise Greek word is absent from the Septuagint, several Hebrew concepts anticipate it: These passages foreshadow the New Testament assurance of a never-failing treasure. Historical Usage Outside Scripture In classical and Hellenistic literature, cognates of ἐκλείπω describe lunar eclipses and dwindling supplies. By prefixing the alpha privative, the New Testament term flips the imagery: that which God grants cannot “eclipse” or fail. Relation to Jesus’ Teaching on Wealth • Matthew 6:19-21 parallels Luke 12:33, urging disciples to lay up “treasures in heaven.” Pastoral and Discipleship Applications 1. Generous Living. Believers are encouraged to leverage possessions for kingdom purposes, trusting God for eternal return. Comparative New Testament Themes • “Unfading” (amarantos) crown – 1 Peter 5:4. Together these terms present a tapestry of divine gifts that are immune to corruption, damage, and loss. Contemporary Ministry Implications Churches and ministries can confidently call believers to sacrificial generosity, knowing that every earthly relinquishment is credited to an account that cannot decline. Teaching the doctrine of unfailing treasure combats materialism, fosters contentment, and fuels global evangelism. Conclusion Strong’s Greek 413 serves as a concise theological jewel: God promises a treasure that will never fail. Rooted in the words of Christ, it reassures the church that heavenly assets are permanently secure, inspiring faith-filled stewardship and unwavering hope. Forms and Transliterations ανεκλειπτον ανέκλειπτον ἀνέκλειπτον anekleipton anékleiptonLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |