### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parakoúō**, represented by `{{G3878}}`, means to mishear or, by implication, to disobey and **neglect to hear**. It appears **2 times** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term stems from the words παρά and ἀκούω, suggesting a hearing that goes amiss, ultimately leading to disobedience through a willful refusal to listen to counsel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical context for `{{G3878}}` is in the instructions for church discipline outlined in [[Matthew 18:17]]. The word is used twice to describe a progressive refusal to heed correction. First, if an offending brother shall **neglect to hear** the witnesses brought before him, the matter is to be told to the church. The second use describes the final step: if he **neglect to hear** the church itself, he is to be treated as an outsider to the community of faith. This demonstrates that the word signifies a deliberate and persistent act of ignoring authoritative counsel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage clarify the context of this instruction:
* `{{G1437}}` **eán** (a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.): This word establishes the conditional framework for the disciplinary action. The process moves forward only **if** the person continues to neglect counsel [[Matthew 18:17]], linking the consequence directly to a specific choice.
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (a calling out, i.e. (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation... church): This is the body that holds final earthly authority in the disciplinary process. To neglect the **church** is presented as the point of final appeal before separation [[Matthew 18:17]]. Christ identifies the **church** as the institution He will build [[Matthew 16:18]].
* `{{G1482}}` **ethnikós** (national ("ethnic"), i.e. (specially) a Gentile): This term describes the resulting status of someone who refuses to listen to the church. Being treated as a **heathen man** signifies a separation from the community of believers [[Matthew 18:17]].
* `{{G5057}}` **telṓnēs** (a tax-farmer, i.e. collector of public revenue): Paired with `ethnikós`, this designation as a **publican** was severe, as they were often viewed as sinners by the religious community [[Matthew 18:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3878}}` is concentrated in its specific application to church order and accountability.
* **Progressive Disobedience:** The use of **parakoúō** in [[Matthew 18:17]] illustrates a hardening of the heart. The act of neglecting to hear is not a single event but a repeated refusal, first against individuals and then against the collective church `{{G1577}}`.
* **Church Authority:** The term validates the spiritual authority of the local assembly (`ekklēsía`). The instruction to **tell** `{{G2036}}` the matter to the church and the serious consequence for neglecting its counsel establishes the church as a God-ordained body for accountability.
* **Restorative Separation:** The consequence for one who continues to **neglect to hear** is to be treated as a **heathen man** `{{G1482}}` and a **publican** `{{G5057}}`. This is not merely punitive but defines a broken relationship, placing the individual outside the fellowship in the hope of future repentance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3878}}` **parakoúō** is a narrowly used but potent word that means to "neglect to hear." Its exclusive appearance in [[Matthew 18:17]] is foundational to the biblical understanding of church discipline. It defines the specific sin of willfully ignoring the counsel and authority of the church (`ekklēsía`), a choice that carries the grave consequence of being separated from the community of believers. The word shows how a refusal to listen can sever fellowship.
TRV