ἐκφοβέω

I terrify exceedingly

Definition

ἐκφοβέω means to terrify someone to the point of driving them away or causing them to flee. It intensifies the basic idea of fear (phobeō) by adding the prefix ἐκ, suggesting a fear that forces someone 'out' of a place or state. In its sole New Testament occurrence, 2 Corinthians 10:9, Paul uses it to describe the intimidating effect he fears his letters might have, not wanting to seem as though he is trying to 'terrify' the Corinthians with his words. This implies a level of coercion or overwhelming intimidation beyond simple fear.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 10:9. Paul employs it in the context of defending his apostolic authority, specifically addressing concerns that his severe letters are meant to frighten the church into submission. The usage highlights a pastoral concern: Paul does not want his corrective correspondence to be perceived as bullying or terrorizing, but as loving discipline aimed at building up the community.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning 'out of' or 'from,' combined with the verb φοβέω (phobeō), meaning 'to frighten' or 'to terrify.' The compound form ἐκφοβέω thus literally means 'to frighten out,' emphasizing a fear so profound it causes expulsion or flight. It is a strengthened form of the more common verb for fear.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in understanding Paul's apostolic methodology and pastoral heart. In 2 Corinthians 10:9, it reveals his conscious avoidance of manipulative or fear-based leadership. His ministry was founded on the 'meekness and gentleness of Christ' (2 Corinthians 10:1), not on terrorizing believers into compliance. Understanding this Greek term enriches our reading by highlighting the contrast between worldly intimidation and Christ-like authority, which seeks to persuade through truth and love rather than coercion.

In the Greco-Roman world, rhetoric and letters could be powerful tools of social control and intimidation. Public figures often used severe language to assert dominance and shame opponents into submission. Paul's explicit rejection of using his letters to 'terrify exceedingly' (ἐκφοβέω) sets his Christian leadership apart from this cultural norm. He operates by a different standard—one of building up the church, not merely asserting his own authority through fear.

φοβέω (phobeō, G5399) — the root verb meaning simply 'to frighten' or 'to be afraid,' without the intensive 'driving out' force of ἐκφοβέω.

Word Details

Scripture References