[Greek] σκοπέω (skopeō), [Latin] videre, [Latin] observare, [Latin] contemplare, [Latin] considerare, [French] voir: to view closely, to examine, to fix one’s eyes upon, to observe, to behold, to contemplate, to consider, to mark, to pay attention; Rom.16:17, Phil.3:17, Gal.6:1, Phil.2:4, Lk.11:35, 2Cor.4:18
God appointed Ezekiel to be a watchman for the house of Israel. Ezekiel shall warn them for God.
Background information:
Secular use: This term skopeo is used mainly in the sense of “to look at” and “to look at critically.” This can be seen when a philosopher or historian critically examines a certain subject. This term is also used when an actor or performer inspects the faces in the audience. In addition, this term can be used when a philosopher holds something as a model before one’s eyes.
Old Testament: The Old Testament utilizes this word in a much more narrow sense than in the New Testament. The Greek skopeo is primarily used in the sense of “to have a watchful eye on.” Ex. 33:8 provides a sense of watchfulness. Whenever Moses went out to the tent of meeting, the people would rise and stand at the entrance of their own tents. Ezek.3:17 provides the ultimate existential purpose for the Old Testament prophet. The Lord has appointed Ezekiel as a watchman for the house of Israel. When Ezekiel hears a word from the Lord, Ezekiel shall warn them.
New Testament: The New Testament uses the Greek skopeo in much more varied and nuanced ways rather than in the Old Testament. Seemingly a secular word, the Greek skopeo helps to clearly describe and define some of the issues/problems the New Testament Christians faced as a new group. These Christians needed to be on watch against dissension and false teaching. They needed to be watchful in concern for others. The Christians needed to keep thinking about seeing things clearly.
Scripture:
“Take care, then, that the light in you not become darkness.” Lk.11:35
The lamp of the body is your eye. When your eye is sound, your body is full of light. It is important to be free from the darkness which may cloud our judgment and behavior.
“I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create dissensions and obstacles, in opposition to the teaching that you have learned, avoid them.” Rom.16:17
Paul urges the Christians to watch for and avoid enemies, obstacles, and false teaching which obstruct their faith.
“Join with others in being imitators of me, brothers and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us.” Phil.3:17
Paul urges the Phillippians to follow his example in conducting themselves. Paul also tells them to be aware of those who are enemies of the cross and only concerned with earthly things.
“Brothers, even if a person is caught in some transgression, you who are spiritual should correct that one in a gentle spirit, looking to yourself, so that you also may not be tempted.” Gal.6:1
Paul instructs his brothers to be not only observant of those who are caught in transgressions, but also have gentle compassionate compassion for these people.
Foreground: Hebrew University located on Mount Scopus
Mount Scopus: Mount Scopus, nearly 2800 feet in elevation, is considered a geographical extension of the Mount of Olives. Over history Mount Scopus became a strategic key to controlling and defending Jerusalem. In 70 A.D. Roman legions camped at this location. In 1099, the Crusades took place at this mountain. Currently, Mount Scopus is the home of Hebrew University.
Conclusion:
Scope, telescope, microscope, video, observation, observe, contemplate, contemplation, consider, consideratio, voyer
It is interesting to learn that the Old Testament prophets served as observers at God’s request. The New Testament examples of this Greek word skope helps us to understand the issues the Christians faced. There was a continual need for an organizational structure to meet the needs of the growing Church. In addition, a leadership structure was needed to respond to issues (heresies) facing the Church. Interestingly, the Greek word for bishop is episkopos. This is one who oversees church affairs and administration. Bishops instructed Christians to strive for clear minded judgment, sound teachings, and compassion for others.