### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun προσωπολήπτης (prosōpolḗptēs, `{{G4381}}`) is a compound word derived from πρόσωπον (prosōpon, "face, countenance, presence") and λαμβάνω (lambanō, "to take, receive, accept"). Literally, it signifies "one who takes or accepts a face." This literal meaning transitions into a figurative sense, denoting a person who shows partiality or favoritism based on outward appearance, status, wealth, or any superficial characteristic of an individual, rather than on their intrinsic worth, character, or the merits of a situation. It captures the essence of judging or treating someone based on who they are externally, rather than what they have done or what is just. The term implies a biased assessment, where external factors sway judgment or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term προσωπολήπτης (prosōpolḗptēs, `{{G4381}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the pivotal declaration by Peter in [[Acts 10:34]]: "Then Peter opened his mouth and said: 'Truly I understand that God shows no partiality [οὐκ ἔστιν προσωπολήπτης ὁ Θεός].'" This statement marks a profound theological breakthrough for Peter, as he recognizes God's universal grace extending beyond the boundaries of the Jewish people to the Gentiles, exemplified by Cornelius and his household. Peter's realization is a direct result of his vision and the subsequent divine leading to Cornelius's house. The assertion that God is "not a respecter of persons" underscores His absolute impartiality in dealing with humanity. God's favor and judgment are not influenced by ethnicity, social standing, wealth, or any other human distinction, but are based purely on faith and obedience. This single occurrence is strategically placed to highlight a foundational truth about God's character and the inclusiveness of the Gospel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "showing partiality" is more broadly addressed in the New Testament through related terms from the same word family. The noun προσωποληψία (prosōpolēmpsia, `{{G4382}}`) refers to the *act* or *practice* of showing partiality. This term appears in key passages such as [[Romans 2:11]] ("For there is no partiality with God"), [[Ephesians 6:9]] ("knowing that He who is both your Master and theirs is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him"), [[Colossians 3:25]] ("But he who does wrong will receive back what he has done, and there is no partiality"), and [[James 2:1]] ("My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory"). The verb προσωποληπτέω (prosōpolēpteō, `{{G4380}}`), meaning "to show partiality," is found in [[James 2:9]] ("But if you show partiality, you commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors").
This Greek word family reflects a concept deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where the idea of God not "lifting up the face" (a Hebrew idiom involving `{{H6440}}` and `{{H5375}}`) or showing favoritism was a recurring theme, particularly in legal and judicial contexts (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 10:17]], [[2 Chronicles 19:7]], [[Job 34:19]]). The consistent message across both testaments is that God's justice and grace are administered without prejudice or bias.
### Theological Significance
The declaration that God is not a προσωπολήπτης (prosōpolḗptēs, `{{G4381}}`) is of immense theological significance. It affirms God's absolute righteousness, justice, and faithfulness. His character is untainted by the human failings of favoritism, prejudice, or discrimination.
1. **Universality of Salvation:** This truth undergirds the universal offer of salvation. God's plan of redemption is not exclusive to any race, nation, or social class, but is available to all who believe, as evidenced by Peter's encounter with Cornelius.
2. **Basis of Judgment:** It establishes that God's judgment is based on truth and righteousness, not on external status or human distinctions. All individuals will be judged according to their deeds and their response to God's revelation, regardless of their background.
3. **Ethical Mandate for Believers:** The fact that God shows no partiality serves as a profound ethical imperative for believers. Christians are called to emulate God's character by actively demonstrating impartiality in their relationships, in the church, in their workplaces, and in society at large. The New Testament strongly condemns favoritism among believers, particularly towards the rich over the poor, as seen in James's epistle. To show partiality is to act contrary to the very nature of God and the spirit of the Gospel.
### Summary
The Greek term προσωπολήπτης (prosōpolḗptēs, `{{G4381}}`) accurately translates to "respecter of persons," designating one who exhibits partiality or favoritism based on superficial characteristics. Its singular, yet highly significant, appearance in [[Acts 10:34]] encapsulates Peter's profound realization that God is utterly impartial, extending His grace and salvation to all humanity without prejudice. This truth about God's character — His unwavering justice and love for all people irrespective of their background — stands as a cornerstone of Christian theology. It also serves as a strong ethical mandate for believers to mirror God's impartiality in their own lives, rejecting all forms of discrimination and favoritism within the community of faith and in the world.
TRV