φιλοτιμέομαι

I desire very strongly

Definition

The verb φιλοτιμέομαι means to be zealous, to strive eagerly, or to set one's ambition on something. It conveys a strong, honorable desire or aspiration, often with a sense of competitive zeal or earnest effort. In Romans 15:20, Paul uses it to describe his ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, emphasizing a focused, pioneering drive. In 2 Corinthians 5:9, it expresses the believer's ambition to be pleasing to God, whether at home in the body or away with the Lord, highlighting a spiritual priority. In 1 Thessalonians 4:11, it encourages believers to aspire to live quietly, mind their own affairs, and work with their hands, showing the word can apply to practical, peaceful ambitions in daily life.

Biblical Usage

This word is used three times in the New Testament, all by the Apostle Paul, and it consistently describes a positive, earnest ambition or striving. In Romans 15:20, it is used in the context of missionary ambition. In 2 Corinthians 5:9, it relates to the ultimate ambition of pleasing God. In 1 Thessalonians 4:11, it applies to personal, social ambition for a quiet and industrious life. The pattern shows it can describe both grand, gospel-centered goals and humble, personal conduct.

Etymology

Derived from the compound Greek words φίλος (philos, meaning 'loving' or 'dear') and τιμή (timē, meaning 'honor' or 'value'). Literally, it means 'to love honor' or 'to be fond of honor.' In classical Greek, it often had a competitive connotation of seeking honor or distinction. In the New Testament, this sense is transformed to focus on honorable spiritual and ethical ambitions rather than personal glory.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it sanctifies the concept of ambition for the Christian life. It shows that ambition, when rightly directed—toward gospel proclamation (Romans 15:20), pleasing God (2 Corinthians 5:9), and living a peaceful, productive life (1 Thessalonians 4:11)—is a virtue. It contrasts worldly ambition for self-glory with a godly ambition that seeks honor from God and the good of others, enriching our understanding of Christian motivation and discipleship.

In the Greco-Roman world, the related concept of φιλοτιμία (philotimia) was central to public life, denoting the pursuit of honor, recognition, and political office. It was a driving force in a competitive, status-conscious society. Paul's use of the verb redefines this cultural ideal, directing the 'love of honor' away from public acclaim and toward service to God and community, which would have been a counter-cultural and transformative concept for his readers.

ζηλόω (zēloō, G2206) — emphasizes fervent zeal or jealousy, sometimes with a negative connotation; σπουδάζω (spoudazō, G4704) — emphasizes diligence, earnestness, or making an effort; ἐφίημι (ephiēmi, G2014) — means to desire, strive after, or seek, but is less specific about the honorable or ambitious nature.

Word Details

Scripture References