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G3118 · Greek · New Testament
μακροχρόνιος
Makrochronios
Adjective
Long-lived, of long duration

Definition

The Greek adjective makrochronios (from makros, long + chronos, time) means 'long-lived' or 'of long duration.' It appears only once in the New Testament, in Ephesians 6:3, where Paul quotes the fifth commandment promise: 'so that you may enjoy long life [makrochronios] on the earth.' The original Exodus version promises 'long days in the land'; Paul universalizes it — not just the Promised Land but 'the earth' — a sign that the Mosaic covenant's temporal promises have been extended to the whole redeemed creation.

Usage & Theological Significance

Makrochronios embodies the biblical theology of blessing through covenant obedience. The fifth commandment is 'the first commandment with a promise' (Ephesians 6:2) — honor your parents, and life will be long and well. Paul's restatement in Ephesians replaces 'the land the LORD is giving you' (Exodus 20:12) with simply 'on the earth' — a move that extends the covenant promise beyond Israel to all of humanity in Christ. This connects to the ultimate makrochronios promise: eternal life for those who are in Christ.

Key Bible Verses

Ephesians 6:3 That it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life [makrochronios] on the earth.
Exodus 20:12 Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
Deuteronomy 5:16 Honor your father and your mother... so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
Proverbs 3:2 For they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Related Words

External Resources

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