Epaineo appears 6 times in the New Testament, derived from epi (upon) + aineo (to praise). It is Paul's word for genuine commendation — both of others (1 Corinthians 11:2, 17) and of God (Romans 15:11, citing Psalm 117:1). The word carries the weight of considered, merited approval — not flattery but earned recognition. Notably, Paul both praises and withholds praise (ouk epaino — 'I do not praise,' 1 Corinthians 11:17, 22) regarding the Corinthian church.
Paul's strategic use of epaineo reveals apostolic pastoral wisdom. He opens 1 Corinthians 11 with praise ('I praise you for remembering me...') before pivoting to sharp correction — a model of gracious accountability. His withholding of praise ('I do not praise you for this meeting') is equally intentional, giving weight to both commendation and rebuke. The ultimate epaineo comes from God: 'Each will receive their praise from God' (1 Corinthians 4:5). The Christian life is oriented toward that final divine commendation, not the approval of peers.