μετρίως

moderately, greatly

Definition

The adverb μετρίως (metriōs) means 'moderately' or 'to a moderate degree,' but in its single New Testament occurrence, it is used in an intensified sense to mean 'greatly' or 'exceedingly.' This reflects a Hellenistic Greek usage where the word could express a significant measure, not just a restrained one. In Acts 20:12, it describes the profound comfort the believers in Troas received after witnessing Eutychus being restored to life. There are no other biblical passages where its meaning differs, as it appears only here.

Biblical Usage

Μετρίως is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 20:12. It describes the emotional state of the believers after the miraculous revival of Eutychus by Paul. The context is a narrative of a lengthy church gathering that included teaching, fellowship, and a dramatic miracle. The word emphasizes the intensity of their relief and joy, moving beyond mere moderate comfort to a great and overwhelming consolation.

Etymology

Μετρίως is derived from the adjective μέτριος (metrios), which means 'moderate,' 'within measure,' or 'fitting.' This adjective itself comes from the noun μέτρον (metron, G3358), meaning 'measure.' Thus, the core idea is of something measured or proportionate. Its development from 'moderately' to an emphatic 'greatly' in Koine Greek shows a linguistic intensification, where the concept of a 'full measure' came to imply a considerable degree.

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, its use in Acts 20:12 highlights a key theme in Luke's writings: the encouragement and strengthening of the early church through the apostles' miraculous signs. The 'great comfort' experienced by the believers underscores how God's powerful acts through His servants directly fostered community faith, resilience, and joy. Understanding this Greek nuance enriches the reading by showing that the miracle's impact was not mild but profoundly transformative for the gathered church.

In ancient Greek thought, ideals of moderation and measured response (like the 'golden mean') were highly valued. The root concept of μέτρον was central to philosophy, arts, and ethics. The intensified usage in the New Testament reflects the Koine Greek of the era, where language could be more emphatic. The cultural expectation of measured emotion makes the word's use for 'great' comfort in Acts 20:12 more striking, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the apostolic miracle.

σφόδρα (sphodra, G4970) — denotes 'very much,' 'exceedingly,' often with more intensity and frequency in the NT. λίαν (lian, G3029) — means 'very,' 'exceedingly,' another common adverb for high degree. ἱκανῶς (hikanōs, G2425) — means 'sufficiently,' 'considerably,' focusing on adequacy or ample measure.

Word Details

Scripture References