ἐγκρίνω

I count among

Definition

The verb ἐγκρίνω means to count someone among a group, to classify, or to include in a list. In its only New Testament occurrence (2 Corinthians 10:12), it carries the sense of comparing oneself favorably to others by placing oneself within a certain class or category. The word implies a judgment or evaluation leading to inclusion. While not used elsewhere in the New Testament, its core meaning of 'reckoning among' or 'enrolling' is consistent with its broader Greek usage.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 10:12. Here, Paul criticizes those who 'classify' or 'compare themselves' with one another, specifically those who measure their spiritual authority by self-commendation and by setting their own standards. The context is Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry against false apostles who were making unwarranted comparisons.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐν (en, 'in') and the verb κρίνω (krinō, 'to judge, decide, separate'). It literally means 'to judge in' or 'to decide into,' hence to include as a result of a judgment. It is related to words like κρίσις (krisis, 'judgment') and διάκρισις (diakrisis, 'discernment').

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in its single use because it highlights the danger of self-assessment in spiritual matters. Paul contrasts the folly of those who 'classify' or 'compare themselves' by their own standards (2 Corinthians 10:12) with the proper standard of measurement, which is the Lord's approval and the sphere of ministry God has assigned. It underscores the principle that spiritual authority and evaluation come from God, not from self-promotion or comparison with others.

In the Greco-Roman world, rhetoric and public reputation were highly valued. Teachers and philosophers often gained followers through self-promotion and public comparison with rivals. Paul's use of this term directly confronts this cultural practice, rejecting the worldly method of establishing credibility through boastful comparison and instead pointing to divine appointment and commendation.

συγκρίνω (synkrinō, G4793) — to compare or combine, often with the nuance of interpreting one thing in light of another. παραβάλλω (paraballō, G3846) — to place beside, for the purpose of comparison. κρίνω (krinō, G2919) — the root verb meaning to judge, decide, or separate, which is broader in scope.

Word Details

Scripture References