πείθω

The Greek verb *peithō* carries a broad semantic range, encompassing the actions of persuading, convincing, trusting, and obeying. In its active form, it means to convince or sway someone through argument or other means, whether good or ill. This persuasion can lead to a change of mind or action in the one being persuaded. The sense of persuasion can be seen in contexts where people are influenced to believe a message or to take a particular course of action. It can describe a human effort to sway another person or the inward conviction that God works in the heart.

When used in the passive or middle voice, *peithō* often takes on the meaning of being persuaded, assenting, trusting, or having confidence. This highlights an internal state of conviction or reliance on something or someone. This trust can be placed in God, in human promises, or in earthly things like riches. The nuance of obedience also emerges, as being persuaded often leads to compliance or following the direction given. The concept of inward certainty and reliance is crucial for understanding the theological weight of this term. It moves beyond mere intellectual assent to a deep personal conviction that affects one's life and decisions.

Biblically, *peithō* is used in various significant ways. It describes the apostles persuading people about Jesus and the kingdom of God (Acts 28:23), and also the crowd being persuaded by the chief priests to ask for Barabbas instead of Jesus (Matthew 27:20). It speaks of those who were persuaded of God's promises (Hebrews 11:13) and of Paul's confidence in God's ability to keep what he had entrusted to Him (2 Timothy 1:12). The contrast between trusting in God and trusting in oneself or in worldly things is a recurring theme. The word underscores the importance of genuine faith and steadfast reliance, particularly in the face of adversity. The call to be persuaded by God's truth and to trust in His faithfulness is a central message.