The Greek word metabállō, represented by G3328, literally means to throw over, but is used figuratively to describe turning about in opinion or to change mind. This term is highly specific, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a dramatic and sudden shift in perspective.
The sole appearance of G3328 is in the narrative of Paul's shipwreck on Malta. After Paul is bitten by a viper, the local inhabitants initially looked for him to have "swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly." However, after observing him for a long time and seeing that no harm came to him, they dramatically changed their minds and said that he was a god Acts 28:6. This usage demonstrates a complete reversal of opinion based on direct observation.
Several related words in the immediate context of Acts 28:6 help to frame the action of G3328:
- G4328 prosdokáō (to anticipate (in thought, hope or fear); by implication, to await): This word describes the islanders' initial state of mind as they looked for or awaited Paul's impending death. Their expectation sets up the subsequent change.
- G2334 theōréō (to be a spectator of, i.e. discern, (literally, figuratively (experience) or intensively (acknowledge))): After their expectation was not met, they saw or perceived that Paul was unharmed. This act of seeing is the direct catalyst for their change of mind.
- G3004 légō (to "lay" forth, i.e. (figuratively) relate (in words)): This verb is used for their final declaration. After changing their minds, they said that he was a god, vocalizing their new belief.
The theological weight of G3328 is found entirely within its context in Acts 28:6.
- Human Judgment vs. Divine Power: The event shows how human expectation, based on natural understanding, is overturned by a display of divine preservation. The "change of mind" is a direct reaction to witnessing something beyond normal experience.
- The Catalyst for Belief: The islanders' observation that Paul suffered "no harm" Acts 28:6 served as the evidence that forced their change of mind. However, their new conclusion was to deify the man, not to recognize the God who protected him.
- The Nature of Opinion: The use of metabállō underscores the sudden and complete reversal of opinion. It illustrates how perception can be instantly transformed when confronted with the unexpected, moving from one extreme conclusion to another.
In summary, G3328 metabállō is a precise term used once in scripture to convey a complete and sudden "change of mind." Its sole appearance in Acts 28:6 captures the dramatic moment when observers, after expecting Paul to die, instead proclaimed him a god. While rare, it powerfully illustrates how observable evidence can instantly overturn human judgment and expectation, leading to a radical shift in belief.
TRV