### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mēkéti**, represented by `{{G3371}}`, is a term of cessation, meaning **no further**, **no longer**, or **not any more**. It appears 23 times across 21 unique verses in the Bible, serving as a decisive marker indicating the end of a particular action, state, or period of time. It functions as a command to stop or as a declaration that a former condition has ceased.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G3371}}` is used to command a break from past behavior and to describe the new reality for a believer. Jesus uses it to give a direct command, telling a woman, "go, and **sin** `{{G264}}` **no more**" [[John 8:11]]. Paul uses it to define the believer's changed relationship with sin, stating that since the old man was crucified with Christ, "henceforth we should **not serve** `{{G1398}}` sin" [[Romans 6:6]]. It is also used to call believers to maturity, urging them to be "**no more** children, tossed to and fro" by false doctrine [[Ephesians 4:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G3371}}` appears:
* `{{G264}}` **hamartánō** (to err, especially (morally) to sin): This word defines the action that is to cease, as seen in Jesus' command to "**sin** no more" [[John 8:11]].
* `{{G1398}}` **douleúō** (to be a slave to): This term describes the state of bondage from which a believer is freed, as in the instruction to "**serve** sin" no longer [[Romans 6:6]].
* `{{G4043}}` **peripatéō** (to live, deport oneself, follow): This word for one's way of life is contrasted with a new path, as believers are told to "**walk** not" as other Gentiles do [[Ephesians 4:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3371}}` is profound, as it marks a point of spiritual transition and transformation.
* **Cessation of Sinful Practice:** The term is a key component of commands for repentance and sanctification. It marks a definitive end to old habits, such as the command to "**steal** `{{G2813}}` **no more**" [[Ephesians 4:28]] and to "**sin** `{{G264}}` **no more**" [[John 5:14]].
* **New Life and Identity:** Its use signifies a fundamental shift in a believer's existence. Christians are to live **no longer** for themselves, but for Christ who died for them [[2 Corinthians 5:15]]. This establishes a clear boundary between the old life and the new.
* **A Call to Spiritual Maturity:** The word is used to exhort believers to move past spiritual infancy. The command to be "**no more** children" highlights the expectation of growth and stability in doctrine and faith [[Ephesians 4:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3371}}` is more than a simple negation; it is a declaration of finality and a call to change. It functions as a powerful marker in Scripture, signaling the end of a former way of life and the beginning of a new one. Whether used in a command to abandon sin, a description of freedom from bondage, or a call to mature in faith, **mēkéti** emphasizes that for the believer, the past is truly past and should remain so.
TRV