ἐκπέμπω

I send out

Definition

The verb ἐκπέμπω means 'to send out' or 'to send forth,' carrying the sense of a deliberate, purposeful dispatch from a specific point of origin. It emphasizes the action of sending someone or something out from a place or a person, often with a specific mission or task. In its two New Testament occurrences, it describes the sending of individuals by the Holy Spirit for ministry (Acts 13:4) and the sending of people away for their safety or to continue their work (Acts 17:10). The prefix ἐκ (ek, 'out of') intensifies the basic sending action of the root verb.

Biblical Usage

ἐκπέμπω is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in the book of Acts. In Acts 13:4, it describes the Holy Spirit sending out Barnabas and Saul (Paul) from Antioch on their first missionary journey. In Acts 17:10, it refers to the believers in Thessalonica sending Paul and Silas away by night to Berea for their protection from hostile agitators. The usage consistently involves a sending that initiates a significant new phase of activity, whether evangelistic or protective.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek, 'out of, from') combined with the verb πέμπω (pempō, 'to send'). The compound form ἐκπέμπω thus literally means 'to send out from.' The root πέμπω is a common verb for sending, and the prefix ἐκ adds the specific nuance of origin or point of departure, strengthening the idea of being dispatched from a specific source.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights divine initiative and commissioning in mission. In Acts 13:4, the subject is the Holy Spirit, underscoring that the missionary enterprise is directed and empowered by God, not merely a human project. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of these passages by emphasizing that the apostles were 'sent out from' the Holy Spirit and the believing community, carrying divine authority and purpose into new regions.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'sending out' an individual or delegation was a formal act, often involving the transfer of authority or a specific mandate from the sender to the sent. The term implies a recognized commissioning. The action in Acts 17:10 also reflects the practical realities of the early church operating within a sometimes hostile social environment, where discreet movement was necessary for safety and the continuation of ministry.

ἀποστέλλω (apostellō, G649) — emphasizes sending with a commission or as a representative; often used for divine sending. πέμπω (pempō, G3992) — the simpler root verb meaning 'to send,' without the strong directional emphasis of 'out from.'

Word Details

Scripture References