The Greek word allóphylos, represented by G246, is derived from terms meaning "foreign" and "tribe," and is used to mean foreign or one of another nation. It appears only 1 time in the entire Bible, in a single verse, yet this singular use marks a pivotal moment in scripture. The term specifically identifies someone who is a Gentile, setting a contrast with a person of Jewish descent.
The sole appearance of G246 is in the account of the Apostle Peter's visit to the Gentile centurion Cornelius. Peter begins his address by stating that it is considered "an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation" Acts 10:28. This statement establishes the cultural and religious barrier that existed at the time. However, Peter immediately follows this by explaining that God has shown him a new truth: that he should not call any person common or unclean, thus dismantling the very division that the word allóphylos represents.
The context of G246 is clarified by several related words used in the same passage:
- G2453 Ioudaîos: This word for Jew stands in direct contrast to "one of another nation," defining the two groups that God was bringing together Acts 10:28.
- G2853 kolláō: Meaning to keep company or join self, this word describes the very act of association between a Jew and a Gentile that was considered unlawful Acts 10:28.
- G4334 prosérchomai: Meaning to approach or come near, it is used alongside "keep company" to describe the forbidden interaction with a foreigner Acts 10:28.
- G2839 koinós: This word for common or profane is what God specifically showed Peter not to call any person, breaking down the ceremonial barrier previously associated with Gentiles Acts 10:28.
- G169 akáthartos: Meaning unclean, this term is used with "common" to describe the status that was wrongly applied to those outside the Jewish faith Acts 10:28.
The theological significance of G246 is tied entirely to its unique context in Acts 10.
- Defining the Old Barrier: The word gives a name to the separation between Jew and Gentile that characterized the Old Covenant era. Peter's use of it establishes the rule that is about to be divinely overturned.
- Inaugurating a New Unity: The appearance of allóphylos serves as a backdrop for God's revelation that the gospel is for all people. The barrier it signifies is abolished, as Peter is commanded not to call any man common or unclean.
- The Gospel for All Nations: This event is a cornerstone for the mission to the Gentiles. By addressing the status of "one of another nation," the narrative affirms that salvation is not restricted by ethnicity or national identity.
In summary, while G246 is one of the rarest words in the Bible, its single use is profoundly important. It encapsulates the deep-seated division between Jew and Gentile. Its appearance in Acts 10 is not to reinforce this separation, but to define the very barrier that God dramatically tears down, paving the way for a unified body of believers from every nation. The word marks a crucial turning point in the expansion of the early church.
TRV