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G2227 · Greek · New Testament
ζωοποιέω
zōopoieō
Verb
To make alive / quicken / give life

Definition

The Greek verb zōopoieō (ζωοποιέω) means to make alive, to quicken, to give life — whether physical resurrection or spiritual regeneration. It combines zōos (alive) and poieō (to make, do). This is not merely the continuation of existing life but the impartation of life where death reigned. It is one of the great resurrection verbs of the NT.

Usage & Theological Significance

The verb carries staggering christological weight. In John 5:21, Jesus declares that just as the Father raises the dead and makes alive, so the Son makes alive whom He will — claiming equal divine authority over life and death. In Romans 4:17, God is defined as the one who gives life to the dead and calls into existence things that do not exist. In 1 Corinthians 15:22, Paul sets up the great contrast: in Adam all die, in Christ all shall be made alive. The Holy Spirit is also identified as the life-giver (John 6:63): "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all." Regeneration, resurrection, and ultimate glorification are all acts of divine zōopoiesis.

Key Bible Verses

John 5:21 For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom he will.
1 Corinthians 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.
Romans 4:17 ...the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.
John 6:63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all.

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