### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **theomachéō**, represented by `{{G2313}}`, is defined as the act **to resist deity** or to **fight against God**. This specific and potent term appears **2 times** within a single unique verse in the Bible, highlighting the gravity of the concept it describes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole context for `{{G2313}}` is found in [[Acts 23:9]], during a fierce dispute concerning the apostle Paul. Amid a great cry `{{G2906}}` and striving `{{G1264}}`, the scribes `{{G1122}}` from the Pharisees' party defended Paul. They declared they could find `{{G2147}}` no evil `{{G2556}}` in him and cautioned their opponents, saying that if a spirit `{{G4151}}` or an angel `{{G32}}` had spoken to Paul, they should not **fight against God** [[Acts 23:9]]. The term is used here as a solemn warning against opposing a person who may be acting as a divine messenger.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of this warning:
* `{{G1264}}` **diamáchomai** (strive): This word means to fight fiercely in an altercation. It describes the intense human conflict that prompted the scribes to warn against escalating the fight to a divine level [[Acts 23:9]].
* `{{G1122}}` **grammateús** (scribe): Meaning a writer or secretary, this term identifies the group who spoke the warning. Though often portrayed as antagonists, here the scribes of the Pharisees caution against opposing God's potential work [[Acts 23:9]].
* `{{G32}}` **ángelos** (angel): As a messenger of God, an angel represents a direct channel of divine communication. The scribes' statement acknowledges that opposing a person spoken to by an angel is equivalent to fighting God [[Acts 23:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2313}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, delivering a powerful message.
* **Warning Against Hasty Judgment:** The phrase is a caution against condemning a person or message without first discerning its origin. The scribes argue that if Paul's message is from a spirit `{{G4151}}` or angel `{{G32}}`, to oppose him would be to oppose God [[Acts 23:9]].
* **The Folly of Opposing God:** The very concept of fighting God implies a futile and dangerous act. The use of this term by the Pharisees' scribes shows a fundamental understanding that placing oneself in opposition to divine will is the ultimate error [[Acts 23:9]].
* **Acknowledging Divine Agency:** The statement recognizes that God can work through various means, including human beings. This underscores the need for spiritual sensitivity to avoid inadvertently resisting God's work in the world [[Acts 23:9]].
### Summary
In summary, while extremely rare, **theomachéō** `{{G2313}}` carries immense theological significance. It serves as a stark and memorable warning against the pride and foolishness of resisting God's work, whether it comes through a prophet, a spirit, or an angel. The term encapsulates the critical importance of discernment and the grave error of positioning oneself against the purposes of the Almighty.
TRV