What does "epektasis" mean?

I. Definition and Overview

“Epektasis” (ἔπεκτασις) refers to the concept of continual progress, stretching forward, or ongoing growth. The term is drawn from a Greek root that appears in Philippians 3:13: “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have laid hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.”

This word has been adopted by theologians to express how believers perpetually press onward in their pursuit of Christ. It emphasizes a sustained movement toward God rather than a static arrival point, highlighting the believer’s ongoing transformation and the inexhaustible depths of knowing the Divine.

II. Etymology and Scriptural Context

The Greek verb ἐπεκτείνομαι (epekteínomai) means “to extend oneself forward” or “to stretch out.” In Philippians 3:13, Paul uses a form of this verb to illustrate an athletic image—like a runner leaning forward toward the finish line. The noun form “epektasis” naturally follows, denoting the act or state of “continuous reaching out” toward a goal.

In this scriptural context, Paul addresses how he has not yet reached complete maturity but presses on toward the prize of knowing Christ fully (Philippians 3:14). The notion underlines that salvation is both a completed act in Christ and a day-by-day journey of sanctification.

III. Historical Development

Early Christian writers, notably Gregory of Nyssa (4th century), expanded on the idea of epektasis to describe the soul’s never-ending progression in fullness and knowledge of God. Gregory taught that because God is infinite, believers will eternally grow deeper in communion with Him. This perspective finds resonance in passages such as Ephesians 3:18–19, which speaks of the “width and length and height and depth” of Christ’s love—an expanse so vast that believers can continually explore it forever.

Other subsequent theologians and church fathers referenced similar language, presenting the Christian life as a pilgrimage of spiritual formation. They saw this incremental growth as not a burden but a divine invitation into ever-increasing fellowship with God.

IV. Theological Implications

1. Unending Progress: Epektasis affirms that believers will never exhaust the depth of God’s nature. Even in eternity, there remains more to discover, fueling eternal praise and worship (Revelation 4:8).

2. Ongoing Sanctification: While Scripture assures believers that redemption is accomplished by Christ’s work (Romans 5:1–2), the practical outworking of salvation involves an ongoing transformation (Romans 12:2). Epektasis underscores this day-to-day renewal.

3. God’s Infinite Nature: Because God transcends human comprehension (Job 11:7–9), the soul’s capacity to know Him is continually stretched. Epektasis highlights that the fullness of God cannot be contained within finite boundaries of time or understanding.

4. Perseverance in Faith: Philippians 3:13–14 not only supplies the linguistic foundation for epektasis but also provides a directive for daily Christian living. Disciples are encouraged to leave behind past failures and successes, pressing on with steadfast faith toward God’s ultimate calling.

V. Scriptural Foundations and Citations

• Philippians 3:13–14: “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have laid hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.”

• Ephesians 3:18–19: “…that you…may be able to comprehend with all the saints the width and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge…”

• Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”

These passages collectively emphasize the continuous, forward-looking nature of life in Christ—ever growing, maturing, and seeking greater depths of divine relationship.

VI. Practical Application

1. Devotional Life: Engaging in daily prayer, reading Scripture, and worship fosters a mindset of pressing onward. Each spiritual discipline serves as a means to progress deeper into God’s character and will.

2. Personal Reflection: Regularly reflecting on one’s spiritual journey—while not dwelling on past regrets—cultivates humility and gratitude for God’s ongoing work.

3. Church Community: Fellowship, corporate worship, and accountability provide supportive contexts for believers to encourage one another in this continual pursuit.

4. Eternal Perspective: Recognizing that growth continues beyond this life inspires believers with hope. This understanding helps maintain perseverance, especially during hardship (Romans 8:18–19).

VII. Summary

“Epektasis” encapsulates the biblical concept of continual movement toward the incomparable depth of God’s presence. Rooted in Paul’s description of “straining toward what is ahead” (Philippians 3:13), it highlights both the already-accomplished work of Christ and the ongoing personal transformation of the believer.

From its linguistic birth in New Testament Greek to its expansion by early church theologians, epektasis has signified that the Christian life is not static but eternally dynamic. It invites believers to experience sanctification as a vibrant pursuit—an ever-deepening relationship with the infinite Creator. The idea of epektasis thus fosters an assurance that there is infinitely more of God’s love and wisdom to explore, both here and in the unending future with Him.