εὐπορέω

I have means, am prosperous

Definition

The verb εὐπορέω (eyporeō) means to have ample means, to be prosperous, or to possess abundant resources. In its primary sense, it describes a state of financial or material sufficiency, often implying the ability to give generously from one's surplus. In the New Testament, it is used specifically in the context of Christian giving, where prosperity is not for hoarding but for sharing with those in need. The single biblical occurrence in Acts 11:29 illustrates this meaning, where disciples in Antioch determined to send relief to fellow believers in Judea, each contributing according to their ability.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Acts 11:29. It is used in the context of early church charity, where the disciples in Antioch, 'each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea.' The usage highlights a practical response to prophecy (about a coming famine) and demonstrates how material prosperity within the Christian community was directed toward alleviating the hardship of others. The verb is in the aorist tense, indicating a definite decision and action taken by those who had the means.

Etymology

Εὐπορέω is derived from the combination of εὖ (eu), meaning 'well' or 'good,' and πορέω (poreō), a verb related to providing, procuring, or furnishing. Literally, it means 'to furnish well' or 'to provide well for oneself.' It shares a root with words like πόρος (poros, 'a way, passage, resource') and εὐπορία (euporia, 'wealth, prosperity'). The compound emphasizes a state of having good resources or being well-supplied.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, εὐπορέω carries theological weight regarding stewardship and wealth in the Christian life. It presents prosperity not as an end in itself but as a resource for fulfilling the law of Christ by bearing one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2). The action in Acts 11:29 models the principle that those blessed with material means have a responsibility to support the body of Christ, especially in times of crisis. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical 'prosperity' is inherently connected to generosity and communal care.

In the Greco-Roman world, prosperity and public benefaction (often for social prestige) were common ideals. The New Testament usage, however, redirects this concept into the private, voluntary, and communal ethic of the early church. The relief sent from Antioch to Judea crossed ethnic and regional lines (Gentile Christians aiding Jewish Christians), which was culturally significant. It reframed prosperity away from personal honor or patronage and toward selfless, kinship-based support within the family of God.

πλουτέω (plouteō, G4147) — to be rich; emphasizes wealth or abundance as a state, not necessarily the act of giving. περισσεύω (perisseuō, G4052) — to abound, exceed; a broader term for abundance that can be spiritual or material. χορηγέω (chorēgeō, G5524) — to supply, furnish; focuses on the act of providing resources, often for a specific need.

Word Details

Scripture References