### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **politárchēs**, represented by `{{G4173}}`, designates a **town-officer** or **magistrate**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from words meaning city and to rule, specifically identifying these individuals as the **rulers of the city**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G4173}}` is confined to a single incident in the book of Acts. When a mob could not find the apostles, they forcefully **drew** Jason and other believers before the **rulers of the city** in Thessalonica [[Acts 17:6]]. The charge brought against them was that they were men who had "turned the **world** upside down" [[Acts 17:6]]. Hearing these things **troubled** both the crowd and the **rulers of the city**, who were responsible for maintaining order [[Acts 17:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of this confrontation:
* `{{G387}}` **anastatóō** (turn upside down, trouble, make an uproar): This is the verb used in the accusation, highlighting the perception that the Christian message was dangerously disruptive to the established order.
* `{{G4951}}` **sýrō** (drag, draw, hale): This term describes the hostile action of the mob, emphasizing the force used to bring Jason and the brethren before the city magistrates.
* `{{G5015}}` **tarássō** (trouble): This word captures the reaction of the **rulers of the city**, who were stirred up and agitated by the accusations and the potential for civic unrest.
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G4173}}` is found in its specific historical context.
* **Conflict with Civil Authority:** The appearance of the **rulers of the city** shows the early church's inevitable interaction with local governments. These officials are presented as having to mediate a volatile situation.
* **Disruptive Nature of the Gospel:** The charge that believers have "turned the **world** upside down" `{{G387}}` [[Acts 17:6]] is brought before these specific magistrates, framing the gospel as a direct challenge to the status quo they oversee.
* **Maintaining Public Order:** The rulers are **troubled** `{{G5015}}` not just by the theological claims, but by the civil uproar they caused, as seen when they take security from Jason before letting them go [[Acts 17:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **politárchēs** `{{G4173}}` is not a theological term but a specific civic title for a town magistrate. Its exclusive use in Acts 17 provides a snapshot of the challenges the early church faced, illustrating how the gospel's message could provoke civil unrest that required the intervention of local **rulers of the city**. The term underscores the real-world friction between a world-changing faith and the authorities tasked with preserving public peace.
TRV