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G3880 · Greek · New Testament
παραλαμβάνω
Paralambanō
Verb
To receive, take along, accept tradition

Definition

Paralambanō (G3880) means to receive alongside, to take along, or to accept what has been passed on. It is the technical term in Paul for receiving apostolic tradition (paradosis) — 1 Corinthians 15:3 uses it for the kerygmatic tradition Paul himself received and passed on.

Usage & Theological Significance

The phrase 'I received (parelabon) and passed on what I also received' (1 Corinthians 15:3; 11:23) marks the chain of apostolic tradition — the gospel itself is not invented but received and transmitted. This word safeguards the historical, handed-down character of the faith. Colossians 2:6 applies the same concept to the reception of Christ: 'As you received (parelabete) Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him.'

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 15:3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins.
Colossians 2:6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him.
1 Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God.
Matthew 1:20 Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife.
John 14:3 I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

Related Words

External Resources

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