Haireó (138 in Strong's Concordance) is a verb in Ancient Greek that means to make a choice for oneself. It is related to the noun hairesis, which means to choose for oneself an opinion, sect, or cult.
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes that he cannot choose for himself which is better; live and he can be useful to God for the purpose of building the church, or die and be with Christ. His choices are illuminating, but Paul knew that the choice was not his to make.
The second example is in the letter of 2 Thessalonians, this time Paul is praising God for revealing Himself to the Thessalonians. Their faith and love for one another had become an encouragement to Paul, and so he thanks God for his sovereign choice that they should hear and receive the Gospel.
The final example is a reflection on Moses' choice to live among the Jews, whom were harshly persecuted, rather than be Pharoah's son. In this regard, Moses is a shadow of Christ, who made the choice to dwell among us and be crucified for our sins.
Overall this verb is translated well into the English language. In each context we are shown the importance of choosing Christ, which is made possible by God choosing us.
Related Terms
The following terms are often used in connection with haireó:
hairesis - a self-imposed choice
hairetizó - to choose
hairetikos - to be factitious
Saddoukaios - a sect of Judaism
Pharisaios - a sect of Judaism
Nazóraios - a native from Nazarene
Usage
Haireó is used 3 times across 3 verses. Below is a list of all references to haireó in the New Testament:
If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell.
Philippians 1:22 ESV
But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.
2 Thessalonians 2:13 ESV
...choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.
Hebrews 11:25 ESV
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