ἐπιχορηγέω

I supply, provide

Definition

The verb ἐπιχορηγέω means to supply, provide, or furnish, often with the connotation of generous, abundant, or even lavish provision. In its New Testament usage, it can refer to God's abundant supply of material resources (2 Corinthians 9:10), spiritual power (Galatians 3:5), or growth and unity to the church (Colossians 2:19). In 2 Peter, it describes the believer's active responsibility to 'supply' or 'add' moral and spiritual qualities to their faith in a progressive manner (2 Peter 1:5, 11).

Biblical Usage

This word is used five times in the New Testament across four books, primarily in epistles. It appears in contexts of divine provision—whether material (2 Corinthians 9:10), spiritual (Galatians 3:5), or organic growth within the body of Christ (Colossians 2:19). In 2 Peter, the usage shifts slightly to emphasize the believer's active role in cultivating virtue (2 Peter 1:5, 11). The pattern shows it is used for significant, ongoing provision, not one-time gifts.

Etymology

Derived from ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'in addition') and χορηγέω (chorēgeō, meaning 'to furnish or supply,' originally from the Greek chorus leader who funded theatrical productions). The compound intensifies the root, suggesting abundant, generous, or superadded provision.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights both God's gracious, abundant provision to His people and the believer's cooperative responsibility in spiritual growth. In passages like Galatians 3:5 and 2 Corinthians 9:10, it underscores God as the source of all spiritual and material blessing. In 2 Peter 1:5-11, it frames the Christian life as a process where divine enablement meets human effort in developing godly character, enriching our understanding of grace and discipleship.

The root χορηγέω (chorēgeō) originated in the Athenian context of a wealthy citizen (the chorēgos) who financed and equipped a chorus for public dramas. This carried connotations of lavish, public-spirited generosity. The New Testament usage likely draws on this background to communicate not mere minimal supply, but generous, costly, and abundant provision for a greater purpose.

διδόμι (didōmi, G1325) — a more general word for 'to give' without the connotation of abundant supply. παρέχω (parechō, G3930) — means 'to offer' or 'furnish,' often in a more neutral or practical sense. προστίθημι (prostithēmi, G4369) — means 'to add,' used in 2 Peter 1:5 in a similar sequential sense but without the rich connotation of generous provision.

Word Details

Scripture References