The Greek word antimisthía, represented by G489, is defined as a requital or correspondence. It is derived from a compound of ἀντί and μισθός. This term appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, making each occurrence significant. Its core meaning centers on a fitting recompense or a corresponding return for a given action.
The two uses of G489 in Scripture illustrate its dual application to both negative and positive consequences. In Romans 1:27, it describes the inherent consequence for sin, with those who engage in unseemly acts "receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet." In contrast, 2 Corinthians 6:13 uses the word in a relational appeal, where Paul asks the Corinthian church for a "recompence in the same," urging them to be enlarged in their hearts toward him as he is toward them.
Several related words provide deeper context for the concept of recompense:
- G618 apolambánō (to receive, take): This verb is used directly with G489 in Romans 1:27 to show that the recompense is something actively received. This act of receiving what is due, whether a reward or a consequence, is also seen when believers are told they will receive the reward of the inheritance Colossians 3:24.
- G3715 órexis (excitement of the mind, i.e. longing after:--lust): In Romans 1:27, this term for lust is presented as the internal driver that results in receiving the G489 recompense, linking the consequence directly to the desire.
- G4106 plánē (a straying from orthodoxy or piety:--deceit, to deceive, delusion, error): This word identifies the root cause for the recompense in Romans 1:27, which is a payment for "error." This concept of straying is also found in contexts like 2 Peter 3:17, which warns against being led away with the error of the wicked.
The theological weight of G489 is centered on the principle of direct and fitting correspondence.
- Principle of Due Consequence: The use in Romans 1:27 establishes that certain actions and errors carry their own inherent requital. The recompence is not an arbitrary penalty but a "meet" or fitting result that is received "in themselves."
- A Call for Mutual Correspondence: The term is also used to frame relational and spiritual dynamics. In 2 Corinthians 6:13, Paul's call for a recompence is an appeal for a reciprocal, corresponding love and openness from the believers he ministers to, framing spiritual relationships on a principle of mutuality.
In summary, G489 is a precise term that signifies more than just a simple reward or punishment. It defines a requital that directly corresponds to an initial action or state. Though rare, its usage powerfully illustrates a fundamental scriptural principle: that there is a fitting and inherent consequence for straying into error, and there is a call for a fitting and mutual response within the body of Christ.
TRV