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G1880 · Greek · New Testament
ἐπανέρχομαι
Epanerchomai
Verb
To return / To come back

Definition

A compound Greek verb meaning to come back, to return to a place or person. From epi (upon/back) and anerchomai (to go up/come). Used in Luke 10:35 in the parable of the Good Samaritan, where he promises to return to the inn, and Luke 19:15 for the nobleman returning from receiving his kingdom.

Usage & Theological Significance

The two Lukan uses of epanerchomai are both parables of return, and both carry Christological resonance. The Good Samaritan's promise — "When I return, I will reimburse you" — mirrors Christ's ongoing care for His people after the ascension: He has paid our debt, entrusted us to the church (the inn), and will return to settle all accounts with generosity. The nobleman who departs to receive his kingdom and returns to evaluate his servants' stewardship is even more explicitly about the Parousia. The certainty of Christ's return is the engine of Christian faithfulness in the present age.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 10:35 "When I return (epanerchomai)," he told him, "I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have."
Luke 19:15 "He was made king, however, and returned (epanerchomai). Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it."
Luke 15:20 So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him.
John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
Acts 1:11 "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."

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