The Greek word poleméō, represented by G4170, means to be engaged in warfare or to battle. Derived from the word πόλεμος (pólemos), it describes the act of fighting or making war, both literally and figuratively. It appears 7 times across 6 unique verses, primarily in the book of Revelation, where it depicts conflicts of cosmic and eschatological significance.
In its scriptural usage, G4170 is central to describing spiritual conflict. In Revelation, it portrays the great battle in heaven where Michael G3413 and his angels fought against the dragon G1404 Revelation 12:7. The term is also used to describe the final opposition to God's authority, as earthly powers "shall make war with the Lamb G721" Revelation 17:14. Conversely, it depicts divine judgment, as Christ, the Faithful and True rider, "doth judge and make war" in righteousness Revelation 19:11. In a figurative sense, James uses the term to describe the source of human conflict, stating that people war because of their internal lusts James 4:2.
Several related words help clarify the concept of warfare and conflict:
- G4171 pólemos: This is the noun form from which G4170 is derived, meaning warfare or battle. It often sets the stage for the action of fighting, as seen when "there was war in heaven" Revelation 12:7.
- G3164 máchomai: This verb means to war, quarrel, or dispute. It is used alongside G4170 in James to emphasize the contentious nature of human strife driven by sinful desires James 4:2.
- G3528 nikáō: Meaning to conquer or overcome, this word frequently appears as the outcome of the conflicts where G4170 is used. For example, after the kings make war with the Lamb, the Lamb will overcome them Revelation 17:14.
The theological weight of G4170 is significant, highlighting the reality of spiritual and moral battle.
- Cosmic and Spiritual Warfare: The word establishes a clear delineation between opposing spiritual forces. The conflict between Michael and the dragon is a pivotal event where both sides fought Revelation 12:7. This theme continues when the followers of the beast are asked, "who is able to make war with him?" Revelation 13:4.
- Eschatological Battle: G4170 is used to describe the final, decisive confrontation between good and evil. Christ returns to make war in righteousness Revelation 19:11, and the kings of the earth make war against the Lamb in a final act of rebellion Revelation 17:14.
- Divine Judgment: The act of warring is not limited to evil forces. Christ warns the church in Pergamos that he will fight against them with the sword G4501 of his mouth, signifying judgment against unrepentance Revelation 2:16.
- The Origin of Conflict: The use of G4170 in James connects external warfare to the internal state of the human heart. Lusts (epithyméō, G1937) and desires (zēlóō, G2206) are identified as the source of the fighting and warring among people James 4:2.
In summary, G4170 provides the language for understanding conflict in the Bible on multiple levels. While its most prominent use in Revelation points to a literal, spiritual, and eschatological battle, its appearance in James grounds the concept in the moral struggles that originate within the human heart. The word powerfully illustrates the ongoing warfare between divine righteousness and rebellious forces, both in the heavenly realm and in human experience.
TRV