From theoros ('spectator'). Theoreo means to look at carefully, to observe with sustained attention β more than a glance, a fixed, contemplative gaze. From this word comes the English 'theory' and 'theater.'
Theoreo is the word used in John 20:12 (Mary 'sees' the angels), in John 6:40 ('everyone who looks to the Son'), and critically in John 17:24 where Jesus prays that believers 'behold my glory.' This final use is eschatological: the ultimate destiny of the redeemed is to theoreo the glory of Christ β sustained, worshipful, transforming contemplation of the Beloved. This is the beatific vision. 1 John 3:2 promises that 'we shall see him as he is' and this sight will complete our transformation. The Christian life is an apprenticeship in theoreo β learning to behold the Lord in prayer, Scripture, sacrament, and one another.