The Greek word anápsyxis, represented by G403, translates to revival. It appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. The word properly means a recovery of breath, which is used figuratively to describe a spiritual revival or refreshing.
The single use of G403 is found in a pivotal sermon by Peter. He calls for the people to repent and be converted so that their sins may be blotted out. This act of repentance directly leads to the promise that "the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord" Acts 3:19. The context establishes this revival not as a human effort, but as a divine gift that follows true conversion.
Several related words in its sole context clarify the conditions for and nature of this revival:
- G3340 metanoéō (to think differently or afterwards, i.e. reconsider (morally, feel compunction):--repent): This is the primary command given. True refreshing begins with a change of mind and heart toward God Acts 3:19.
- G1994 epistréphō (to revert (literally, figuratively or morally):--come (go) again, convert, (re-)turn (about, again)): Paired with repentance, this word signifies a complete turning away from a previous life of sin and turning back to God Acts 3:19.
- G1813 exaleíphō (to smear out, i.e. obliterate (erase tears, figuratively, pardon sin):--blot out, wipe away): This is the result of repentance and conversion. The "blotting out" of sins is the act of forgiveness that makes spiritual refreshing possible Acts 3:19.
- G2540 kairós (an occasion, i.e. set or proper time): This word specifies that the "times" of refreshing are a designated season or opportunity that comes directly from the Lord Acts 3:19.
The theological significance of G403 is tied directly to the process of salvation and restoration.
- A Consequence of Conversion: The promise of refreshing is conditional. It follows the commands to repent G3340 and be converted G1994, positioning revival as a result of turning to God.
- The Fruit of Forgiveness: This spiritual revival is inextricably linked to the pardoning of sin G266. The blotting out of transgressions is what clears the way for the "recovery of breath" for the soul Acts 3:19.
- Sourced from God's Presence: The refreshing is not a general feeling of peace but a specific blessing that comes "from the presence G4383 of the Lord G2962." It emphasizes that true revival and restoration originate solely from God Himself.
In summary, G403 encapsulates a profound theological promise. Though used only once, anápsyxis defines a key element of the Christian experience: a spiritual revival that serves as a recovery of life and breath. It is not an abstract concept but a distinct blessing from the Lord, granted to those who respond to the call for repentance and conversion, resulting in the complete forgiveness of their sins.
TRV