περιποιέω

I acquire, purchase

Definition

The verb περιποιέω means to acquire, obtain, or make something one's own. In its two New Testament occurrences, it carries a strong sense of gaining or securing something of great value, often with a connotation of preservation. In Acts 20:28, it describes the church as a people 'acquired' or 'purchased' by God through Christ's blood, emphasizing a costly redemption. In 1 Timothy 3:13, it refers to deacons 'gaining' or 'acquiring' a good standing and confidence for themselves through faithful service.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, but in two distinct yet related contexts. In Acts 20:28, it is used theologically and passively ('which he purchased'), referring to God's act of redeeming the church. In 1 Timothy 3:13, it is used actively and ethically ('they acquire'), describing the reward faithful deacons gain through their conduct. Both uses involve securing a highly valuable, non-material possession—either salvation or a reputable standing.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition περί (peri), meaning 'around' or 'concerning,' and the common verb ποιέω (poieō), meaning 'to do' or 'to make.' The compound thus literally means 'to make around for oneself' or 'to make one's own.' This sense of securing something for one's own possession or benefit is central to its meaning.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly describes the act of redemption. In Acts 20:28, it underscores the costly, proprietary nature of salvation—the church is God's own possession, bought at the price of Christ's blood. This enriches our understanding of redemption beyond mere forgiveness to include the concepts of ownership, preservation, and treasured acquisition by God. The usage in 1 Timothy 3:13 also connects faithful Christian service to securing a spiritual reward.

In the Greco-Roman world, the verb could be used in commercial contexts for purchasing, but also more broadly for acquiring honor, status, or a reputation. The New Testament usage spiritualizes this concept, applying it to the ultimate acquisition of a people by God and the acquisition of spiritual standing through service, which would resonate with audiences familiar with the pursuit of honor and social standing.

ἀγοράζω (agorazō, G59) — emphasizes the marketplace transaction of buying; often used for Christ's redemptive purchase. κτάομαι (ktaomai, G2932) — a more general term for acquiring or possessing, sometimes by one's own effort.

Word Details

Scripture References