The Greek word antilégō, represented by G483, means to dispute or refuse. It is built from the words ἀντί ("against") and λέγω ("to speak"). Appearing 10 times in 9 unique verses, it describes various forms of verbal opposition, including to "answer again, contradict, deny, gainsay(-er)," and "speak against."
In scripture, G483 is used to describe resistance to divine figures and their message. Simeon prophesies that Jesus will be a "sign which shall be spoken against" Luke 2:34, establishing that opposition would be a key element of his ministry. This opposition continued against the early church, which was known as a sect that is "every where it is spoken against" Acts 28:22. The word also denotes specific doctrinal denial, as when the Sadducees deny the resurrection Luke 20:27. In a practical sense, it describes insubordination, such as when servants are instructed against "answering again" to their masters Titus 2:9.
Several related words help clarify the nature of this opposition and its opposite:
- G544 apeithéō (to disbelieve): This word for disobedience is explicitly linked with G483 in Romans 10:21, which describes a "disobedient and gainsaying people."
- G1651 elénchō (to confute, admonish): This is the proper response to those who speak against truth. Leaders are to use sound doctrine to convince G1651 the gainsayers G483 Titus 1:9.
- G987 blasphēméō (to vilify; specially, to speak impiously): This represents an escalation of speaking against. In Acts 13:45, those who spake against Paul's message did so by "contradicting and blaspheming."
- G5293 hypotássō (to subordinate; reflexively, to obey): This is the direct antonym to the attitude of G483. Servants are told to be obedient G5293 and not be "answering again" Titus 2:9.
- G2723 katēgoréō (to be a plaintiff, i.e. to charge with some offence): While G483 is general opposition, this term refers to a formal charge. When the Jews spake against G483 Paul's appeal to Caesar, Paul specified he did not intend to accuse G2723 his nation Acts 28:19.
The theological weight of G483 lies in its portrayal of humanity's rebellion against God's authority and truth.
- Opposition to Christ: The word defines the world's reaction to Jesus. His identity as a sign to be spoken against Luke 2:34 frames the conflict between the kingdom of God and the world.
- Rejection of the Gospel: The term is consistently used for those who oppose the apostolic message. The Jews spake against Paul's teachings Acts 13:45, and the Christian faith itself was spoken against everywhere Acts 28:22, highlighting the spiritual battle inherent in evangelism.
- The Nature of Unbelief: G483 connects verbal defiance with a hardened heart. In Romans 10:21, "gainsaying" is the outward expression of a people who are "disobedient" G544, showing that contradiction stems from an unwillingness to submit to God.
In summary, G483 is a crucial term for understanding the nature of active, verbal opposition to divine truth. It encompasses everything from insubordination within a household to the outright denial of core doctrines and the blasphemous rejection of God's messengers. It powerfully illustrates the biblical theme of conflict between faith and unbelief, showing how "speaking against" is a primary manifestation of a heart set against God.
TRV