Present Active Participle
The Present Active Participle is a verbal adjective that describes an ongoing action performed by its subject.
What is the Present Active Participle?
The Present Active Participle is a verbal adjective that describes an ongoing action performed by its subject. It functions like adding "-ing" to an English verb: "believing," "loving," "walking." In Greek, it can serve as a noun ("the one believing"), an adjective ("the believing man"), or an adverb ("while believing"). The present tense indicates the action is concurrent with the main verb, ongoing, or characteristic.
Why This Matters for Bible Study
Present participles define identity and character in the NT. "The one believing" (ho pisteuon) in John 3:16 is not just someone who believed once but someone characterized by ongoing faith. When Jesus speaks of "those who are perishing" (hoi apollumenoi) versus "those who are being saved" (hoi sozomenoi) in 1 Corinthians 1:18, the present participles define two ongoing states of existence. Recognizing participles helps readers see how the NT authors define people by their continuous actions and states.
Famous Verses Using the Present Active Participle
"He that believeth on him is not condemned."
The present participle "ho pisteuon" (the one believing) defines the believer as someone in an ongoing state of faith. It is not a past event but a present identity. Those characterized by continuous belief are not condemned.
"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
The present participle "peripatountes" (walking) describes the ongoing lifestyle of believers. Their characteristic pattern of life is directed by the Spirit, not the flesh. The present tense shows this is a continuous way of living.
"He that doeth truth cometh to the light."
The present participle "ho poion" (the one doing) describes a person whose characteristic behavior is doing truth. It defines their ongoing identity, not a single isolated act.
How It Compares to Related Forms
| Form | Aspect / Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Present Active Participlecurrent | Ongoing action as description | "the one believing" (ho pisteuon) |
| Aorist Active Participle | Completed prior action as description | "having believed" (pisteusas) |
| Perfect Active Participle | Completed action with lasting state | "the one who has believed" (ho pepisteukos) |
| Present Active Indicative | Statement of ongoing action | "he believes" (pisteuei) |
Apply What You Have Learned
Put your knowledge of the Present Active Participle into practice with these resources.