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G4131 · Greek · New Testament
πλήκτης
plḗktēs
Noun, masculine
Striker, Bully

Definition

Plḗktēs (πλήκτης) means a striker, bully, pugnacious person. From plēssō (to strike). Appears in church leadership qualifications.

Usage & Theological Significance

First Timothy 3:3 and Titus 1:7: overseers must be 'not violent, but gentle.' The contrast is epieikēs (gracious, considerate). Christian leadership is incompatible with domination and violence. This was radical in a Greco-Roman world where authority was exercised by force. Jesus modeled the alternative: 'I am gentle and humble in heart' (Matthew 11:29). A leader who bullies or intimidates is disqualified because Christ-shaped leadership looks like a servant, not a tyrant.

Key Bible Verses

1 Timothy 3:3 Not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.
Titus 1:7 An overseer must be blameless... not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain.
Matthew 11:29 I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

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External Resources

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