χράω
chraō
to use
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek verb χράω (chraō) meaning "to use" is a fundamental concept in understanding how early Christians lived their daily lives. With 11 occurrences in the Bible, its significance is more than just a single instance. This verb carries the idea of utilizing something, whether it's a tool, a resource, a privilege, or even one's life. Its meaning is broad, encompassing different contexts. In its range of usage, χράω often connotes an idea of utilizing or employing something to produce a certain result or to achieve a specific goal. This verb was likely used in various settings, such as in daily life, business, or even worship. Its significance lies in the idea that every aspect of life has a purpose and should be utilized according to its designed function. The verb χράω encourages a mindset of responsibility and stewardship, reminding us that everything has been given to us for a reason. Rather than neglecting or wasting our resources, we should use them wisely and efficiently.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
11 total occurrences across the text
The next day, we touched at Sidon. Julius treated Paul kindly, and gave him permission to go to his friends and refresh himself.
Acts 27:17After they had hoisted it up, they used cables to help reinforce the ship. Fearing that they would run aground on the Syrtis sand bars, they lowered the sea anchor, and so were driven along.
1 Corinthians 9:12If others partake of this right over you, don’t we yet more? Nevertheless we didn’t use this right, but we bear all things, that we may cause no hindrance to the Good News of Christ.
1 Corinthians 7:21Were you called being a bondservant? Don’t let that bother you, but if you get an opportunity to become free, use it.
1 Corinthians 7:31and those who use the world, as not using it to the fullest. For the mode of this world passes away.
1 Corinthians 9:15But I have used none of these things, and I don’t write these things that it may be done so in my case; for I would rather die, than that anyone should make my boasting void.
2 Corinthians 1:17When I therefore was thus determined, did I show fickleness? Or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be the “Yes, yes” and the “No, no?”
2 Corinthians 3:12Having therefore such a hope, we use great boldness of speech,
2 Corinthians 13:10For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not deal sharply when present, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for tearing down.
1 Timothy 1:8But we know that the law is good, if a person uses it lawfully,
1 Timothy 5:23Be no longer a drinker of water only, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.