### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word metakinéō (`{{G3334}}`) is a compound verb formed from metá (`{{G3326}}`), signifying change or transference, and kinéō (`{{G2795}}`), meaning "to move" or "to stir." The base definition provided, "to stir to a place elsewhere, i.e. remove (figuratively)," accurately captures its essence. While kinéō can denote literal physical movement, the prefix metá here, combined with the "figuratively" qualifier in the definition, strongly suggests a metaphorical application. Thus, metakinéō refers not to a physical relocation, but to a spiritual or intellectual displacement, a departure from a previously held position, or a removal from a state of stability. It implies a shift or an abandonment of a foundation, whether of belief, hope, or commitment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term metakinéō (`{{G3334}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Paul's letter to the Colossians:
* **[[Colossians 1:23]]**: "if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, and not metakinéō from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister."
In this singular occurrence, the context is profoundly theological and ethical. Paul is exhorting the believers in Colossae to persevere in their faith. The phrase "not metakinéō from the hope of the gospel" serves as a crucial warning against spiritual instability or apostasy. It stands in stark contrast to the preceding descriptors: "stable" (hedraios `{{G1476}}`) and "steadfast" (bebaios `{{G949}}`). To "move away" from the hope of the gospel signifies a departure from the foundational truths and promises of Christ, a drifting from the secure anchor of their salvation. This movement is not physical but a shift in spiritual allegiance, conviction, or commitment. The warning underscores the vital importance of constancy and endurance in the Christian walk, especially in the face of pressures or false teachings that might seek to dislodge believers from their firm standing in the gospel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words and concepts are closely related to metakinéō (`{{G3334}}`) in semantic range, particularly concerning stability, movement, and change:
* **kinéō (`{{G2795}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to move" or "to stir." While metakinéō adds the nuance of change or removal, kinéō provides the basic action of motion.
* **metá (`{{G3326}}`)**: The prefix indicating change, transformation, or transposition. Its presence in metakinéō highlights the qualitative shift implied by the word, as seen in other compounds like metanoia (`{{G3341}}`, "repentance," a change of mind).
* **hedraios (`{{G1476}}`)**: Meaning "stable," "steadfast," or "firmly seated." This word is used in the same verse ([[Colossians 1:23]]) and represents the opposite quality of metakinéō, emphasizing the desired state of the believer.
* **bebaios (`{{G949}}`)**: Meaning "firm," "steadfast," "sure," or "certain." Also used in [[Colossians 1:23]], it reinforces the concept of stability and reliability, contrasting with the instability implied by metakinéō.
* **ametakinētos (`{{G277}}`)**: Meaning "immovable" or "unmovable." This is the antonym of metakinéō, directly expressing the desired perseverance that is not subject to being "moved away." It is used in [[1 Corinthians 15:58]] to describe the steadfastness believers should exhibit in their work for the Lord.
* **asaleutos (`{{G767}}`)**: Meaning "unshaken" or "immovable." Used, for example, in [[Hebrews 12:28]] regarding receiving an "unshakeable kingdom," it speaks to an enduring, stable reality.
These related terms collectively paint a picture of the New Testament's emphasis on spiritual stability, perseverance, and the dangers of drifting from foundational truth.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of metakinéō (`{{G3334}}`) in [[Colossians 1:23]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a potent warning against apostasy and spiritual backsliding. The "hope of the gospel" is presented as a firm, immovable foundation upon which believers are to stand. To "move away" from this hope implies:
1. **The Danger of Spiritual Instability:** It highlights the ever-present temptation for believers to be swayed from their convictions, whether by false teaching, worldly pressures, or personal trials. The Christian life is not static but requires active perseverance.
2. **The Importance of Perseverance:** The exhortation to "continue in the faith, stable and steadfast" directly opposes the action of metakinéō. It underscores the biblical emphasis on endurance (e.g., hypomonē `{{G5281}}`) as a hallmark of genuine faith. True faith is not merely an initial assent but an ongoing commitment.
3. **The Firmness of the Gospel:** Implicit in the warning is the understanding that the gospel itself is inherently stable and unmoving. It is not a shifting sand but a solid rock. The problem lies not with the gospel, but with the potential for the believer to depart from it.
4. **The Call to Fidelity:** The admonition to "not move away" is a call to unwavering loyalty and faithfulness to Christ and His revealed truth. It speaks to the integrity of one's spiritual journey and the necessity of guarding one's heart and mind against doctrines or desires that would lead one astray.
Thus, metakinéō encapsulates the critical theological concept of maintaining one's spiritual footing in the face of anything that might seek to dislodge it.
### Summary
Metakinéō (`{{G3334}}`), a compound verb meaning "to move away" or "to remove (figuratively)," appears uniquely in the New Testament in [[Colossians 1:23]]. Here, it functions as a strong warning against spiritual instability, urging believers to remain "stable and steadfast" in their faith and "not move away from the hope of the gospel." The word underscores the critical importance of perseverance and fidelity in the Christian life, highlighting the danger of abandoning the foundational truths of the gospel. Its use contrasts sharply with concepts of steadfastness and immovability, emphasizing that while the gospel itself is a firm anchor, believers must actively guard against any spiritual drift or departure from this secure foundation.
TRV