Lexical Summary probibazó: To lead forward, to bring forth, to instruct Original Word: προβιβάζω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance prompt, drawFrom pro and a reduplicated form of biazo; to force forward, i.e. Bring to the front, instigate -- draw, before instruct. see GREEK pro see GREEK biazo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origincaus. form of probainó Definition to lead forward, lead on NASB Translation prompted (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4264: προβιβάζωπροβιβάζω 1 aorist 3 person plural προεβίβασαν; 1 aorist passive participle feminine προβιβασθεῖσα; 1. properly, to cause to go forward, to lead forward, to bring forward, drag forward: Acts 19:33 R G ((from Sophocles down)). 2. metaphorically, equivalent to προτρέπω, to incite, instigate, urge forward, set on; to induce by persuasion: Matthew 14:8 (εἰς τί, Xenophon, mem. 1, 5, 1; Plato, Prot., p. 328 b.; (in Deuteronomy 6:7 the Sept. with an accusative of the thing (and of the person) equivalent to to teach)). Strong’s Greek 4264 captures the act of urging someone forward—whether by instruction, persuasion, or manipulation. Although the term appears only once in the New Testament, its single occurrence in Matthew 14:8 illuminates a recurring biblical theme: the power of influence in shaping decisions for good or ill. Context in Matthew 14:8 “Prompted by her mother, she said, ‘Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.’” (Matthew 14:8) Herodias’s daughter did not originate the murderous request; she was “prompted” by her mother. The verb underscores a calculated inducement, veiled beneath the festive setting of Herod’s birthday banquet. What outwardly appeared as a celebratory occasion became the backdrop for an act of premeditated wickedness, orchestrated through subtle yet decisive influence. The Dynamics of Influence 1. Hidden Motive: The word highlights how counsel can carry motives unknown to the one being counseled. Herodias used her daughter as a proxy, shielding herself from direct culpability. Historical and Cultural Background Public banquets in the Herodian court featured extravagant displays, including dance performances. Daughters of royalty rarely danced before banqueting men; this breach of decorum points to calculated strategy. Herodias exploited cultural expectations of hospitality and oath-keeping, taking advantage of Herod’s rash promise in Matthew 14:7. Theological Significance 1. Opposition to Prophetic Voice: The scene climaxes a prolonged conflict between John the Baptist and Herod’s household (Matthew 14:3–4). God’s prophetic messenger is silenced through human scheming, yet his testimony continues through Jesus Christ (Matthew 17:12–13). Practical Ministry Applications • Guard Against Manipulation: Leaders must test counsel against Scripture and not be swayed by emotional or relational leverage. Related Biblical Parallels • Eve listens to the serpent (Genesis 3:1–6). Each instance illustrates influence wielded toward disobedience, contrasting with positive examples such as Barnabas encouraging the Antioch believers (Acts 11:22–24). Concluding Reflections Though Strong’s 4264 appears only once, it accents a timeless biblical lesson: voices that prompt decisions shape destinies. Scripture calls believers to exercise discernment, ensuring that every influence is weighed against the unchanging counsel of the Lord. |
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