### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb ἀκωλύτως (akōlýtōs, `{{G209}}`) is a compound word derived from the alpha privative (α-, a negative particle) and the root verb κωλύω (kōlyō, `{{G2967}}`), meaning "to hinder," "to prevent," "to forbid," or "to restrain." Therefore, ἀκωλύτως literally means "unhindered-ly" or "without hindrance." Its semantic range encompasses notions of freedom from impediment, absence of external opposition, and unrestricted action. It conveys the idea of something proceeding smoothly, without any force or authority preventing its course.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ἀκωλύτως (akōlýtōs, `{{G209}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, at the very conclusion of the book of Acts: [[Acts 28:31]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant. The verse states that Paul, while under house arrest in Rome, was "preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance." The phrase "without hindrance" (ἀκωλύτως) serves as a climactic summary of the entire narrative of Acts. Despite numerous attempts to suppress the Gospel message—persecution, imprisonment, plots, and trials—Luke concludes by emphasizing that the proclamation of Christ ultimately proceeded unimpeded. This highlights the divine power and sovereignty at work, ensuring that no human authority or opposition could ultimately stop the spread of the Good News, even in the heart of the Roman Empire.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verb from which ἀκωλύτως (akōlýtōs, `{{G209}}`) is formed: κωλύω (kōlyō, `{{G2967}}`). Understanding κωλύω, which signifies active prevention or prohibition (e.g., [[Matthew 19:14]], [[Acts 11:17]]), illuminates the powerful negation conveyed by ἀκωλύτως. Another closely associated concept in [[Acts 28:31]] is παρρησία (parrēsia, `{{G3954}}`), meaning "boldness" or "freedom of speech." The unhindered nature of Paul's preaching directly facilitated his boldness. The word also conceptually relates to the broader theme of the unstoppable advance of God's kingdom, often depicted as a seed growing ([[Mark 4:26-29]]) or a leaven spreading ([[Matthew 13:33]]), signifying an inherent, divinely guaranteed progression.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀκωλύτως (akōlýtōs, `{{G209}}`) at the end of Acts cannot be overstated. It functions as a powerful declaration of God's sovereign control over the spread of His Gospel. Despite all human efforts to thwart it, the message of the Kingdom of God and the Lord Jesus Christ is ultimately unstoppable. Paul's imprisonment, which might appear to be a setback, is reframed as a context for *unhindered* proclamation. This demonstrates that God's purposes are not limited by human circumstances or opposition. The word offers profound encouragement to believers throughout history, affirming that no persecution, no political power, and no societal barrier can ultimately prevent the divine will concerning the expansion of His truth. It underscores the triumph of the Gospel and the unfailing faithfulness of God to accomplish His redemptive plan.
### Summary
ἀκωλύτως (akōlýtōs, `{{G209}}`) is a Greek adverb meaning "without hindrance," "unhindered," or "freely." It is formed from the negative particle α- and the verb κωλύω (`{{G2967}}`), "to hinder." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Acts 28:31]] is highly significant, concluding the book of Acts with the declaration that Paul preached the Gospel in Rome "without hindrance." This single word serves as a powerful theological statement, affirming the unstoppable and divinely guaranteed progress of the Kingdom of God despite human opposition. It highlights God's sovereign control over the spread of His Word, assuring believers that no earthly power can ultimately thwart His redemptive purposes.
TRV