The Way of The Word
Dec 30, 2024
as your soul prospers
In this study, we will discover the meaning of the word "prosper" and the concept of prosperity as presented in the Bible. The ancient Greek and Hebrew languages offer multiple interpretations of "prosper," reflecting the cultural values and beliefs surrounding success, well-being, and divine favor.
In ancient Greek, two words express the idea of prosperity, each with distinct nuances. The term “euporeó” refers to being prosperous, having abundance, or being well-supplied, often in a material or financial sense.
For example, in Acts 11:29, Luke writes,
“And in the proportion that any of the disciples had means (‘euporeó), each of them determined to send a contribution for the relief of the brethren living in Judea” (NASB 1995).
“Euporeó” appears another time in Acts 19:25-26 when a group of craftsmen expresses concern that Paul’s preaching will negatively impact their financial success. Demetrius, a silversmith, gathers the workers and states, “Men, you know that this business is our source of prosperity [euporia]” (NASB 1995).
Another Greek term, "euodō," is frequently used in the New Testament to discuss prosperity. It translates to "to succeed" or "to prosper" and involves achieving goals, thriving, and experiencing positive outcomes in various life areas. This understanding of prosperity extends beyond material wealth to include personal fulfillment and well-being.
For instance, in 3 John 1:2, the author prays for prosperity that includes spiritual and physical health:
“Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers” (NASB 1995).
In Hebrew, the word most associated with prosperity is "tsalach," meaning "to succeed" or "to prosper." This term is closely related to "shalom," which conveys peace, completeness, and welfare. The Hebrew perspective on prosperity emphasizes a holistic view of success that includes both individual and community well-being.
One of my favorite scriptures in the Old Testament is Jeremiah 29:11
and says,
"For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare [shalom] and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope" (NASB).
The Old Testament frequently depicts prosperity as a tangible blessing from God, often linked to obedience to His commandments. For example, Joshua 1:8 states,
“This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous [tsalach], and then you will have success” (NASB 1995).
Similarly, in Deuteronomy 28:1-2, God promises blessings to the Israelites for their obedience:
“Now it shall be, if you will diligently obey the Lord your God... all these blessings will come upon you” (NASB 1995).
Psalm 1:3 further demonstrates this idea, describing a prosperous person as “like a tree firmly planted by streams of water... and in whatever he does, he prospers [tsalach]” (NASB 1995). While Hebrew and Greek cultures have different views on prosperity, they also share similarities. Both recognize prosperity as a divine blessing.
In Hebrew culture, prosperity results from obedience to God, while in Greek culture, it often signifies God’s favor. Both traditions acknowledge that individual prosperity can enhance community well-being, although in different ways. The Hebrew perspective emphasizes communal responsibility, while the Greek view focuses on personal achievement and virtue.
In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles encourage believers to adopt a broader understanding of prosperity that includes generosity, stewardship, and community support.
For instance, in Matthew 6:19-21, believers are advised not to store up earthly treasures but to focus on spiritual wealth:
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (NASB 1995).
This reinforces the idea that true prosperity lies in serving others and contributing to the community. Moreover, the New Testament emphasizes sharing material wealth for spiritual benefit.
Paul reminds believers in Acts 20:35 (NASB 1995),
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Additionally, 2 Corinthians 9:6 (NASB 1995) highlights the principle of generosity:
“Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.”
The views of prosperity in ancient Hebrew and Greek cultures offer insights into their broader worldviews. While both cultures value prosperity, the Hebrew perspective is more community-oriented, emphasizing obedience to God and collective well-being. In contrast, the Greek perspective is more individualistic and materialistic, focusing on personal achievement and social status.
The Biblical understanding of prosperity integrates these cultural perspectives, stressing the importance of generosity, stewardship, and community connections, and suggesting that individual success among believers should serve to enhance the well-being of others.
Word Study Challenge:
Dig deeper into the concept of prosperity through scripture including both Old and New Testament scriptures. How does what you discover change your understanding of the link between prosperity, obedience to God, and generosity?
References:
Koehler, L & Baumgartner, W (1995) The Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament Retrieved from https://archive.org/details/hebrewaramaiclex0002kohl/page/n5/mode/1up
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). 2 Corinthians. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/2_corinthians/9.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). 3 John. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/bsb/3_john/1.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Acts. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/Acts/11.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Acts. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/Acts/19.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Acts. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/Acts/20.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Deuteronomy. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/Deuteronomy/28.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Joshua. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/joshua/1.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Matthew. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/Matthew/6.htm
New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Psalms. Retrieved from https://biblehub.com/nasb/psalm/1.htm
Strong, J. (1890). Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Abingdon Press. Retrieved from https://www.biblestudytools.com/concordances/strongs-exhaustive-concordance/