Tutor
Culture & Societyâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
In classical antiquity, a tutor functioned as both a legal guardian and a disciplinary overseer. This dual role is reflected in the New Testament, where the Greek terms epitropos and paidagogos are translated as 'tutor' in passages such as Galatians 4:2 and 1 Corinthians 4:15.
What is the meaning of Tutor in the Bible?
In classical antiquity, a tutor functioned as both a legal guardian and a disciplinary overseer. This dual role is reflected in the New Testament, where the Greek terms epitropos and paidagogos are translated as 'tutor' in passages such as Galatians 4:2 and 1 Corinthians 4:15.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the historical context of the tutor as a strict authority figure responsible for a minor's moral and legal development illuminates the biblical metaphors for spiritual growth. It clarifies how Pauline authors used the concept of a tutor to describe the temporary, restrictive nature of the Law before the arrival of faith and maturity.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Tutor in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Tutor clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.