### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **akōlýtōs**, represented by `{{G209}}`, is an adverb meaning **in an unhindered manner** or **freely**. Derived from a compound of the negative particle "Α" and a word related to hindrance, its definition is literally "no man forbidding him." It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G209}}` is in the final verse of the book of Acts. It describes the state of the Apostle Paul, who, though under house arrest in Rome, was "Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, **no man forbidding him**" [[Acts 28:31]]. This context highlights that despite Paul's physical confinement, his ministry of **preaching** `{{G2784}}` and **teaching** `{{G1321}}` the gospel continued without external obstruction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Acts 28:31]] help clarify the meaning of `{{G209}}`:
* `{{G2784}}` **kērýssō** (to herald... proclaim): This defines the primary action that was being performed unhindered. The gospel was being publicly proclaimed.
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (to teach): Paired with preaching, this describes the instruction concerning **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}` that was freely given.
* `{{G3954}}` **parrhēsía** (confidence): This word describes the manner of the proclamation. Not only was it unhindered by others, but it was also delivered with outspokenness and assurance.
* `{{G932}}` **basileía** (kingdom): This identifies the core subject of the unhindered preaching—the **kingdom** of **God** `{{G2316}}` and His rule.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G209}}` is derived entirely from its climactic placement at the end of Acts.
* **Unhindered Gospel:** The word serves as a powerful concluding statement for the book of Acts, emphasizing that the advance of the gospel cannot ultimately be stopped by human forces or circumstances.
* **Sovereign Empowerment:** Its use suggests that the freedom to **preach** `{{G2784}}` and **teach** `{{G1321}}` was not merely a lack of human interference but a divinely orchestrated reality. The message of the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` was supernaturally free.
* **Ministry in Bonds:** The term powerfully contrasts Paul's physical imprisonment with the spiritual liberty of his ministry. While the messenger was chained, the message itself was **unhindered** [[Acts 28:31]].
### Summary
In summary, **akōlýtōs** `{{G209}}` is a concise and impactful word whose significance is amplified by its rarity. Its singular use provides the final word in the narrative of the early church's expansion in Acts, affirming that the message concerning the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}` and the **Lord Jesus Christ** `{{G2962}}` moves forward freely and **in an unhindered manner**, a theme central to the Christian mission.
TRV