### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anthístēmi**, represented by `{{G436}}`, is derived from ἀντί and ἵστημι and means **to stand against, i.e. oppose:--resist, withstand**. It appears 16 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible, signifying a direct and active form of opposition. The word is used to describe both righteous defiance against evil and rebellious opposition against God and truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G436}}` is applied in several distinct contexts. Believers are explicitly commanded to **resist** the devil, with the promise that he will flee [[James 4:7]], and to **withstand** in the evil day by taking up the whole armor of God [[Ephesians 6:13]]. The word also describes hostile opposition to God's work, as when Jannes and Jambres **withstood** Moses [[2 Timothy 3:8]] or when Elymas the sorcerer **withstood** the apostles to turn someone from the faith [[Acts 13:8]]. In a striking contrast, Jesus instructs his followers *not* to **resist** evil in the context of personal offense [[Matthew 5:39]]. The term can also refer to interpersonal confrontation, such as when Paul **withstood** Peter to his face [[Galatians 2:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the meaning and application of **anthístēmi**:
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi**: As the root of **anthístēmi**, this word means **to stand**. The goal of withstanding in spiritual battle is ultimately "to **stand**" firm [[Ephesians 6:13]].
* `{{G498}}` **antitássomai**: This word means **to range oneself against, i.e. oppose**. It is used alongside `{{G436}}` to describe the one who **resisteth** the power and ordinance of God [[Romans 13:2]].
* `{{G5293}}` **hypotássō**: Meaning **to subordinate; reflexively, to obey**, this word presents a critical contrast. Believers are commanded to first **submit** themselves to God, which empowers them to then **resist** the devil [[James 4:7]].
* `{{G5343}}` **pheúgō**: This word means **to run away (literally or figuratively); by implication, to shun**. It is the promised result of resisting the devil, who "will **flee** from you" [[James 4:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G436}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of the Christian life.
* **Active Spiritual Warfare:** The command to **resist** is not passive. It is an active, decisive stance against the devil, enabled by faith and the armor of God ([[James 4:7]], [[1 Peter 5:9]], [[Ephesians 6:13]]).
* **Opposition to Truth:** The word is frequently used to characterize those who fight against divine revelation. This includes individuals with corrupt minds who **resist** the truth [[2 Timothy 3:8]] and adversaries who are unable to **resist** the wisdom given by God's Spirit [[Acts 6:10]].
* **Resistance to Authority:** To **resist** the governing powers is equated with resisting the ordinance of God, an act that brings judgment [[Romans 13:2]]. This frames human authority within a divine order.
* **Ethic of Non-Resistance:** In personal matters, Jesus redefines strength by commanding his followers not to **resist** an evil person who strikes them. This redirects the posture of opposition away from personal retaliation and towards a higher, counterintuitive ethic [[Matthew 5:39]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G436}}` **anthístēmi** is a powerful word that defines the nature of opposition. It calls the believer to a posture of unyielding resistance to the devil and his influence, while simultaneously forbidding resistance in the face of personal slights. Its usage reveals a clear demarcation between what must be opposed (spiritual evil, falsehood) and what must be submitted to (God, and by extension, His ordained authorities). The term forces a choice: one will either **resist** the devil or **resist** the truth.
TRV