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).
Transliteration:peitharchéō
Pronunciation:pi-tharkh-eh'-o
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb πειθαρχέω (peitharchéō, `{{G3980}}`) is a compound word formed from πείθω (peithō, `{{G3982}}`), meaning "to persuade" or "to obey," and ἄρχω (archō, `{{G757}}`), meaning "to rule" or "to command." Thus, its core meaning is "to be persuaded by a ruler" or "to obey a ruler." This etymology highlights a crucial nuance: it is not merely passive compliance, but a submission that arises from being "persuaded" by the authority, implying a willing and conscious act of obedience. The word denotes a submission to legitimate authority, whether divine or human. By extension, it can also refer to conforming to advice, especially from one in a position of guidance or leadership. The term inherently carries the weight of acknowledging and yielding to a superior will or command.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
πειθαρχέω appears three times in the New Testament, each instance offering profound insight into the nature of obedience.
1. **[[Acts 5:29]]**: This is arguably the most pivotal occurrence. When commanded by the Sanhedrin to stop teaching in the name of Jesus, Peter and the apostles famously declare, "We must obey God rather than men." Here, πειθαρχέω is used to articulate the absolute primacy of God's authority. It presents a stark contrast between human and divine commands, asserting that when these conflict, the believer's ultimate allegiance must be to God. This is not an act of rebellion for rebellion's sake, but a principled stand rooted in a higher, divine calling.
2. **[[Acts 5:32]]**: Following their declaration in [[Acts 5:29]], Peter continues, "And we are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him." In this verse, πειθαρχέω describes the recipients of the Holy Spirit. It links the reception and indwelling of the Spirit directly to active obedience to God. This suggests that obedience is not merely an external act but an internal disposition that aligns one with God's will, making one receptive to divine empowerment and witness.
3. **[[Titus 3:1]]**: Paul instructs Titus to "Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work." Here, πειθαρχέω is applied to civil authorities. This command underscores the general Christian duty to live as responsible citizens, respecting and obeying the governing powers. This instruction, however, must be read in light of [[Acts 5:29]]. While Christians are to obey human authorities, this obedience is conditional upon it not contradicting the higher command of God. When there is no conflict, Christians are called to be exemplary in their submission to established order.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of πειθαρχέω intersects with several other important Greek terms related to obedience and submission:
* **πείθω (peithō, `{{G3982}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to persuade" or "to obey." πειθαρχέω builds upon this by specifying obedience *to an archon* (ruler/authority).
* **ὑπακούω (hypakouō, `{{G5219}}`)**: "To listen under," hence "to obey" or "to hearken." This often emphasizes hearing and responding to a command. While similar, πειθαρχέω specifically highlights the authority figure.
* **ὑποτάσσω (hypotassō, `{{G5293}}`)**: "To subject oneself," "to be in subjection to." This is a broader term for submission, often used in contexts of social order (e.g., wives to husbands, church members to leaders). While πειθαρχέω implies ὑποτάσσω, the former specifically denotes the act of obeying a command from an authority.
* **πείθω (peithō, `{{G3982}}`) vs. πειθαρχέω (peitharchéō, `{{G3980}}`)**: The simple verb peithō can mean "to be persuaded" or "to obey." peitharchéō adds the dimension of *archē* (authority/rule), making it specifically "to obey a ruler." This distinction is crucial for understanding the specific context of obedience to those in power.
Concepts related to πειθαρχέω include divine authority, human governance, conscience, principled disobedience (when God's command is paramount), and the nature of Christian discipleship.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πειθαρχέω is profound, particularly as articulated in [[Acts 5:29]]. This verse establishes a foundational principle for Christian ethics: God's authority is supreme and absolute. When human laws or commands directly contradict divine commands, the believer's primary allegiance is to God. This does not advocate for anarchy but for a discerning and God-centered obedience. It highlights that Christian obedience is not blind but is informed by a higher moral and spiritual imperative.
Furthermore, [[Acts 5:32]] links obedience to God with the reception and witness of the Holy Spirit, suggesting that genuine submission to God's will is a prerequisite for experiencing the fullness of His presence and power. This underscores that obedience is not merely a legalistic adherence to rules but a dynamic relationship with the living God.
Finally, [[Titus 3:1]] reminds believers of their civic duty to obey human authorities. This demonstrates the balanced approach of New Testament theology: Christians are to be law-abiding citizens, contributing positively to society, unless such obedience would necessitate disobedience to God. The tension between these two forms of obedience is resolved by prioritizing the divine command, yet maintaining respect and submission to human authority where possible. πειθαρχέω thus encapsulates the complex and often challenging call to live faithfully in a world governed by both human and divine laws.
### Summary
πειθαρχέω (peitharchéō, `{{G3980}}`) is a potent Greek verb signifying a willing and conscious obedience to authority, particularly a ruler or governing power. Its etymology from "persuade" and "rule" highlights that this is not forced compliance but a submission that acknowledges and yields to legitimate authority. The New Testament uses of πειθαρχέω are few but highly significant. Most notably, in [[Acts 5:29]], it articulates the foundational Christian principle that "We must obey God rather than men," establishing the supremacy of divine authority over all human commands. This principle guides believers when faced with conflicting loyalties. The word also appears in [[Acts 5:32]], linking obedience to God with the reception of the Holy Spirit, and in [[Titus 3:1]], where it enjoins Christians to obey civil authorities as a general rule. Thus, πειθαρχέω encapsulates the nuanced and discerning nature of Christian obedience, demanding ultimate allegiance to God while also promoting responsible citizenship.
TRV