In the Bible, “pais” is a Greek word that translates to “child” or “servant,” often used to refer to a young person or an attendant. It conveys notions of humility, submission, and loyalty in the context of relationships between individuals, especially in teachings and parables of Jesus.
Scripture
5 When he had entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, appealing to him,
6 “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, suffering terribly.”
7 And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.”
8 The centurion answered, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed.
9 For I too am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
10 When Jesus heard this, he marveled and said to those who followed him, “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith.
11 I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven,
12 while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
13 And to the centurion Jesus said, “Go; let it be done for you as you have believed.” And the servant was healed at that very moment.
Definition of “Pais” in the Bible
The Greek term “pais” appears prominently in the New Testament, underscoring themes of humility, servitude, and the relational dynamics between individuals, especially in the context of one’s relationship with God and others. For instance, when Jesus referred to Himself as a servant in Matthew 20:26-28, He used the broader idea of servanthood to highlight the essence of leadership in the Kingdom of God. This idea is further reflected in the concept of “child” in Jesus’ teachings. In Matthew 18:2-4, Jesus calls a child to Him to illustrate that true greatness in the Kingdom comes from humility and the willingness to submit to God’s authority, stating, “whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Moreover, “pais” also encompasses the idea of loyalty and dedication, as seen in the numerous instances where the term is used to denote faithful servants or disciples. In John 15:15, Jesus refers to his followers as friends rather than servants (doulos), implying a deeper relationship based on love and mutual respect. The use of “pais” conveys not just a designation of age or position but a profound relational identity that underscores the belief in a covenantal relationship with God, rooted in love, service, and obedience. This multifaceted meaning strengthens the understanding of how God’s people—regardless of age, status, or background—are called to embody the traits of humility and loyalty, shaping their lives within the framework of God’s grace and truth.
In addition to its usage in the contexts of servitude and relationship, the term “pais” often carries connotations of trust and dependence. For example, in the parables of Jesus, the imagery of a servant (pais) reflects the understanding of one’s role under a master—not merely as an subordinate, but as a trusted steward of the master’s household. This reflects a broader biblical narrative where individuals are called to be faithful stewards of the gifts they have been given, implying a deep level of responsibility and trustworthiness, akin to the commendable qualities expected in the “pais.”
Furthermore, the connection between “pais” and divine purpose is significant. The prophetic tradition often employs bodily and experiential references to “servants” in the context of Israel’s mission to the world. The Servant Songs in Isaiah delineate a picture of “pais” as one chosen and loved by God, tasked with tasks that advance God’s redemptive plan for humanity. This brings forth a theological layer where the understanding of “pais” transcends the mere duties of servanthood and enters the realm of divine purpose and vocation, calling the believer to embrace their identity as part of God’s greater narrative. In sum, the concept of “pais” encapsulates a holistic approach to life in faith, where humility, trust, and a sense of divinely ordained mission guide one’s actions and relationships.
The Concept of Servanthood
In biblical contexts, the term “pais” often conveys the idea of servanthood or being a servant. This reflects a broader theological theme where individuals are called to serve others selflessly, embodying humility and dedication. The use of “pais” emphasizes the importance of serving not just in a physical sense but also in a spiritual and communal context, highlighting the value of putting others’ needs before one’s own.
The Role of Discipleship
“Pais” can also be understood in the context of discipleship. It signifies a relationship between a teacher and a student, where the “pais” is often seen as a follower or learner. This relationship underscores the importance of guidance, mentorship, and the transmission of wisdom, illustrating how disciples are called to learn from their leaders and embody their teachings in their lives.
The Significance of Belonging
Additionally, “pais” carries connotations of belonging and identity within a community. It reflects the idea of being part of a larger family or group, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individuals within the body of believers. This sense of belonging fosters unity and support among members, reinforcing the notion that each person has a role to play in the collective mission of the community.
How to Embrace Humility for Spiritual Growth
Embracing humility is a transformative journey that can significantly enhance your spiritual growth as a Christian. It begins with recognizing that we are all imperfect beings in need of grace, just as Paul reminds us in Romans 3:23. To cultivate humility, start by practicing gratitude—acknowledge the blessings in your life and the ways God has guided you, which can shift your focus from self to the divine. Engage in self-reflection and prayer, asking God to reveal areas where pride may be creeping in, and be open to constructive feedback from others. Remember, humility is not about thinking less of yourself, but rather thinking of yourself less; it’s about serving others and putting their needs before your own, as Jesus exemplified in John 13 when He washed His disciples’ feet. By embracing this mindset, you’ll not only deepen your relationship with God but also foster a spirit of love and compassion towards those around you, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and Christ-centered life.
Bible References to “Pais” Definition:
Luke 7:1-10: 10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well.
2 A centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him.
3 When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his servant.
4 And when they came to Jesus, they pleaded with him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him,
5 for he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our synagogue.
6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof.
7 Therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed.
8 For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
9 When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”
10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well.
John 4:46-54: 46 So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And at Capernaum there was an official whose son was ill.
47 When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death.
48 So Jesus said to him, “Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.”
49 The official said to him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.”
50 Jesus said to him, “Go; your son will live.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way.
51 As he was going down, his servants met him and told him that his son was recovering.
52 So he asked them the hour when he began to get better, and they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.”
53 The father knew that was the hour when Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live.” And he himself believed, and all his household.
54 This was now the second sign that Jesus did when he had come from Judea to Galilee.
Acts 3:13-26: 13 The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him.
14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you,
15 and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses.
16 And his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.
17 “And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers.”
18 But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled.
19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,
20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus,
21 whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago.
22 Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers. You shall listen to him in whatever he tells you.
23 And it shall be that every soul who does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed from the people.’
24 And all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and those who came after him, also proclaimed these days.
25 You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.’
26 God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness.”
Acts 4:23-31: 23 When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them.
24 And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them,
25 who through the mouth of our father David, your servant, said by the Holy Spirit, “‘Why did the Gentiles rage, and the peoples plot in vain?
26 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers were gathered together, against the Lord and against his Anointed.’
27 for truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel,
28 to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place.
29 And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness,
30 while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”
31 And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.
Acts 4:32-37: 32 Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common.
33 And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.
34 There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold.
35 and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.
36 Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus,
37 sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
Acts 8:26-40: 26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is a desert place.
27 And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship
28 And he was returning, seated in his chariot, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah.
And the Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and join this chariot.”
30 So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?”
31 And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.
32 Now the passage of the Scripture that he was reading was this: “Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter and like a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he opens not his mouth.
33 In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who can describe his generation? For his life is taken away from the earth.
34 And the eunuch said to Philip, “About whom, I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?”
35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.
36 And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?”
37 And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he replied, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”
38 And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him.
39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing.
40 Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he preached the gospel to all the towns until he came to Caesarea.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.