Lexical Summary paratheóreó: To overlook, to neglect, to disregard Original Word: παραθεωρέω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance neglect. From para and theoreo; to overlook or disregard -- neglect. see GREEK para see GREEK theoreo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom para and theóreó Definition to compare, to overlook NASB Translation overlooked (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 3865: παραθεωρέωπαραθεωρέω, παραθεώρω: imperfect passive 3 person plural παρεθεωροῦντο; 1. (παρά equivalent to by the side of (see παρά, IV. 1)) to examine things placed beside each other, to compare (Xenophon, Plutarch, Lucian). 2. (παρά equivalent to over, beyond (Latinpraeter; see παρά, IV. 2)) to overlook, neglect: Acts 6:1 (Demosthenes, p. 1414, 22; Diodorus, Dionysius Halicarnassus, others). Strong’s Greek 3865 appears once in the New Testament and conveys the idea of ignoring, overlooking, or neglecting someone or something that rightfully deserves attention. The term is set within the life of the early Jerusalem church, where practical ministry needs threatened spiritual unity. Usage in the New Testament Acts 6:1 records: “In those days, as the disciples were multiplying, the Hellenistic Jews began to complain against the Hebraic Jews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution.” The participle rendered “were being overlooked” translates the verb behind Strong’s 3865. Luke’s choice of this word underscores an unintentional yet significant lapse in pastoral care that required immediate correction. Historical Background in Acts 6 1. Rapid church growth created administrative strain. Theological Themes 1. God’s concern for the vulnerable: Scripture repeatedly commands care for widows and the disadvantaged (Deuteronomy 10:18; James 1:27). Ministry Implications • Vigilance against unintentional neglect: Growing congregations must institute structures that identify and meet practical needs. Related Passages and Motifs • Isaiah 1:17 — “Defend the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” Together these texts amplify the moral gravity of failing to notice needy believers. Practical Applications 1. Conduct periodic audits of benevolence ministries to ensure equitable distribution. Summary The lone appearance of Strong’s 3865 in Acts 6:1 exposes how easily sincere communities can overlook real needs. Scripture’s remedy—Spirit-empowered servant leadership—provides a template for contemporary churches: recognize neglect promptly, act justly, and thereby manifest the gospel’s integrity and love. |