### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhētōs**, represented by `{{G4490}}`, means to state something **out-spokenly** or **distinctly**. It appears only **1 time** in 1 verse in the Bible, where it is translated as **expressly**. The word's core meaning emphasizes a communication that is direct, clear, and without ambiguity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G4490}}` is in [[1 Timothy 4:1]], where it gives immense weight to a divine warning. The text states that "the **Spirit** speaketh **expressly**, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith." This use of **rhētōs** signifies that the prophecy about future apostasy is not a matter of interpretation but a clear and explicit declaration from the Spirit. The warning specifically identifies the cause of this departure: giving heed to **seducing** spirits and the **doctrines** of devils [[1 Timothy 4:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of this explicit warning:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): Defined as a current of air or, figuratively, a spirit, including the Holy **Spirit**. It is the **Spirit** who speaks expressly, and it is also "seducing **spirits**" that people will heed [[1 Timothy 4:1]].
* `{{G868}}` **aphístēmi** (depart from): This word means to desist or desert. It describes the prophesied action of those who will **depart** from the faith [[1 Timothy 4:1]]. The term is also used as a warning to believers not to possess a heart of unbelief in **departing** from the living God [[Hebrews 3:12]].
* `{{G1319}}` **didaskalía** (doctrine): Meaning instruction or teaching. The prophecy warns against heeding the **doctrines** of devils [[1 Timothy 4:1]]. Believers are elsewhere cautioned not to be carried about with every wind of **doctrine** [[Ephesians 4:14]].
* `{{G4108}}` **plános** (seducing): This term describes an impostor or misleader. It refers to "seducing spirits" that actively mislead people [[1 Timothy 4:1]]. The word is also used to describe human **deceivers** who have entered the world [[2 John 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4490}}` is tied directly to its singular, impactful use:
* **Clarity of Prophetic Warning:** The word **expressly** establishes that God's warnings about apostasy are not vague. The Spirit speaks **out-spokenly** and **distinctly**, leaving no room for doubt about the coming danger [[1 Timothy 4:1]].
* **The Source of False Teaching:** The passage explicitly links false teaching not just to human error but to supernatural sources. To **depart from** the faith `{{G868}}` is to give heed to "seducing **spirits**" `{{G4108}}` and "doctrines of **devils**" `{{G1140}}`.
* **The Act of Apostasy:** Apostasy is defined as an intentional turning away. The prophecy states that some shall **depart from** the faith `{{G868}}` by actively "giving heed" `{{G4337}}` to deceptive teachings, rather than simply drifting away unknowingly.
### Summary
In summary, **rhētōs** `{{G4490}}` is a rare but highly significant adverb. Its single appearance in Scripture serves to authenticate a crucial prophecy, emphasizing its divine origin and clarity. It underscores that the warning against turning from the faith to follow deceptive teachings is not a subtle inference but an explicit, or **expressly** stated, truth from the Spirit.
TRV