WHAT DOES "WALK" ENTAIL?

     One word translated "walk" in the New Testament is "peripateo."
In the total 96 occurrences of "walk" it is used both physically and
figuratively (Matthew 4:18; 1 John 1:6-8). "Walk" means "the whole
round of activities of the individual life, whether of the
unregenerated, or of the believer" (W. E. Vine, Expository Dictionary
of New Testament Words). A further usage of "walk" would be to
suggest "walk" both positively and negatively.
     When one obeys the gospel, that one is said to "walk in newness
of life" (Romans 6:4). The old man is put off and the new man is put
on (Romans 6:6). God's children are commanded to "walk by faith" (2
Corinthians 5:7). Yet, faith cometh from "hearing the word of God"
(Romans 10:17). God's people are to "walk after the Spirit" (Romans
8:4). This means they are to submit to the Spirit's teaching (the
word). It is essential that the saved "walk in truth" (2 John 4) and
"in wisdom" (Colossians 4:5). The Godly "walk as He (Christ) walked"
(2 John 2:6).
     There are ways in which one is not to "walk." Man is not to
"walk by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). To "walk" by sight is to walk by
human wisdom, rather than by God's Word. Many "walk" in their own
ways" (Acts 14:16) and "in darkness" (1 John 1:6). Some "walk
disorderly" (2 Thessalonians 3:6). The deceitful "walk in craftiness"
(2 Corinthians 4:2). The worldly minded "walk after the flesh" (2
Peter 2:10).
     The major point involved in "walk" is that God is concerned with
how we live. He teaches us through His word how we are to live and
how we are not to live. The gospel is more than just "glad or good
tidings," it tells us how we are to "walk," how we are to live.
      (--Jack Thompson, preacher for White Park church of Christ)

Return to Index
Home