from a compound of πείθω and ἄρχω; to be persuaded by a ruler, i.e. (genitive case) to submit to authority; by analogy, to conform to advice:--hearken, obey (magistrates).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **peitharchéō**, represented by `{{G3980}}`, means **to be persuaded by a ruler** or **to submit to authority**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a compound of words meaning "to be persuaded" and "ruler," its core concept is to conform to authority or advice, often translated as **obey** or **hearken**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3980}}` illustrates a clear hierarchy of authority. In Acts, Peter declares a foundational principle: believers ought to **obey** God rather than men, establishing divine authority as ultimate [[Acts 5:29]]. This obedience to God is directly linked with receiving the Holy Ghost [[Acts 5:32]]. The term is also applied to civil and practical matters. Paul instructs Titus to remind believers "to **obey magistrates**" [[Titus 3:1]], and he uses the word to mean **hearkened** when scolding sailors for not following his advice, which led to harm and loss [[Acts 27:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of obedience and authority:
* `{{G5293}}` **hypotássō** (to subordinate; reflexively, to obey): This term is often used alongside `{{G3980}}` to mean "to be subject." It calls for submission to God [[James 4:7]], to governing powers [[Romans 13:1]], and within the church [[1 Peter 5:5]].
* `{{G1163}}` **deî** (it is necessary; ought): This word adds a sense of moral obligation or necessity. It is used to frame the command in [[Acts 5:29]], "We **ought** (`{{G1163}}`) to obey God," and Paul’s counsel in [[Acts 27:21]], "ye **should** (`{{G1163}}`) have hearkened unto me."
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (authority, power): This is the delegated influence or power to which one obeys. It appears with `{{G3980}}` in [[Titus 3:1]], where believers are reminded to be subject to "principalities and **powers**," and is the same word Jesus claims after His resurrection: "All **power** (`{{G1849}}`) is given unto me" [[Matthew 28:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3980}}` is centered on the believer's relationship to divine versus human authority.
* **The Ultimate Authority:** The most critical principle is established in the apostles' declaration, "We ought to obey God rather than men" [[Acts 5:29]]. This defines a clear hierarchy where submission to God's commands is absolute and takes precedence over any conflicting human authority.
* **Obedience and Spiritual Blessing:** The act of obeying God is directly linked to receiving the Holy Spirit. God gives the Spirit "to them that obey him" [[Acts 5:32]], framing obedience not just as a duty but as a pathway to experiencing God's divine presence and gifts.
* **Civic and Practical Submission:** While God's authority is supreme, believers are also instructed "to obey magistrates" [[Titus 3:1]] and to **hearken** to wise counsel to avoid harm [[Acts 27:21]]. This demonstrates a principle of ordered submission in both civil life and practical matters, under the umbrella of ultimate obedience to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3980}}` **peitharchéō** is a precise term for submitting to authority. Though appearing only four times, its usage is significant, establishing the foundational Christian ethic of obeying God above all human institutions [[Acts 5:29]]. It simultaneously affirms a believer's responsibility to respect earthly rulers [[Titus 3:1]] and heed sound advice [[Acts 27:21]]. The word encapsulates the critical discernment required of a believer, navigating duties to both God and man, while always holding divine commands as supreme.
TRV