The Greek word anapeíthō, represented by G374, is defined as to incite or persuade. It is formed from ἀνά and πείθω. This term is exceptionally rare in scripture, as it appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible.
The sole use of G374 is found in the book of Acts. It appears within an accusation brought against Paul, where his opponents are "Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law" Acts 18:13. In this context, the word carries a negative connotation, suggesting an incitement to act against established legal and religious customs. The persuasion is framed as an illicit and disruptive act.
Several related words from its single biblical appearance help to clarify its meaning:
- G3004 légō (say): Defined as to "lay" forth or relate in words, this verb is used to introduce the accusation in Acts 18:13. It is a common word for speaking, as when Jesus is saying, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" John 14:6.
- G3754 hóti (that, because): This conjunction is used to introduce the substance of the accusation. It often serves to state a cause or demonstrate a point, as in the declaration that "all things work together for good to them that love God" Romans 8:28.
- G444 ánthrōpos (man): This word refers to a human being and identifies those being persuaded. It is used broadly for humanity, such as in the statement that man shall not live by bread alone Matthew 4:4 or that the Son of man came to seek and save the lost Luke 19:10.
- G4576 sébomai (to worship): Meaning to revere or adore, this word describes the action being persuaded. It is used positively of those who are devout, like Lydia who worshipped God Acts 16:14, and negatively in warnings against vain worship Matthew 15:9.
The theological weight of G374 is derived entirely from its specific context in Acts.
- Controversial Persuasion: The word's only appearance is within an accusation, highlighting the conflict between the gospel and established religious law. The act of persuasion is presented as an incitement to break from tradition.
- Worship and Law: The charge of persuading men to worship G4576 God "contrary to the law" frames the central tension. This points to a shift from worship defined by the old covenant to one defined by the grace of God, a concept seen elsewhere when Paul and Barnabas persuaded new believers to continue in grace Acts 13:43.
- Framing of the Gospel: The use of G374 shows how the message of faith was perceived by its opponents as a dangerous and illegal incitement, rather than a call to a fuller expression of worship.
In summary, G374 anapeíthō is a term whose significance is tied to its singular, contentious use. While it simply means "to persuade" or "to incite," its appearance in Acts 18:13 colors it as a term of accusation. It encapsulates the conflict inherent in introducing a new way to worship G4576 God that was seen as being "contrary to the law," demonstrating how the persuasive power of the gospel was viewed as a threat by the established order.
TRV