### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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