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G3358 · Greek · New Testament
μέτρον
Metron
Noun, neuter
Measure, Standard, Degree

Definition

The Greek noun metron (μέτρον) means a measure, measuring instrument, standard of measurement, or the measured portion given to someone. It appears about 14 times in the New Testament. It can refer to a physical measuring device, to the limits or bounds of something, or metaphorically to the portion or degree of grace, faith, or responsibility assigned to a person.

Usage & Theological Significance

Jesus uses metron in the famous passage: 'With the measure you use, it will be measured to you' (Matthew 7:2; Mark 4:24). This establishes a principle of divine proportionality in judgment — the standard you apply to others becomes the standard applied to you. But God's giving is described as without measure: 'For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit (ou ek metrou)' (John 3:34). The grace given to Christ was immeasurable. Paul speaks of each believer having been given a metron of faith (Romans 12:3) and a metron of grace (Ephesians 4:7) — gifts proportioned by God's wisdom, sufficient for the calling assigned to each person.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 7:2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
John 3:34 For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.
Romans 12:3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.
Ephesians 4:7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.
Revelation 21:17 The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick.

Related Words

External Resources

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