### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἀπαρτισμός (apartismós, `{{G535}}`) is a hapax legomenon in the New Testament, appearing only once. Its base definition points to "completion" or "finishing." The word is derived from a compound of ἀπό (apo, `{{G575}}`), meaning "from," and ἄρτι (arti, `{{G737}}`), meaning "now" or "just now," forming ἀπάρτι (aparti), which signifies "from now on" or "henceforth." The suffix -ismos typically indicates an action, a state, or the result of an action. Therefore, ἀπαρτισμός conveys the idea of bringing something to its full and final conclusion, not merely a cessation, but a successful and intended culmination of a process. It implies the state of being fully equipped or ready for the successful end of a task.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As noted, ἀπαρτισμός (apartismós, `{{G535}}`) occurs only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke.
* [[Luke 14:28]]: "For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost, whether he has enough to complete it [εἰ ἔχει τὰ πρὸς ἀπαρτισμόν]?"
The context is Jesus' teaching on the demands of discipleship, immediately preceding the parables of the tower builder and the king going to war. Jesus uses these analogies to illustrate the necessity of counting the cost before embarking on a significant undertaking. The builder must assess his resources to ensure he has "enough for the completion" (τὰ πρὸς ἀπαρτισμόν). The word emphasizes the successful conclusion of the building project, ensuring it is not left unfinished and thus subject to ridicule (cf. [[Luke 14:29-30]]). This single occurrence is crucial, highlighting the practical wisdom required for any major endeavor, especially one with profound spiritual implications. It underscores the need for foresight, planning, and adequate provision to bring a commenced work to its intended, successful end.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "completion" or "finishing" is central to biblical thought and is expressed through several related Greek terms:
* τελέω (teleō, `{{G5055}}`): "to complete," "to finish," "to accomplish." This verb is frequently used in the New Testament to denote the bringing of something to an end, the fulfillment of prophecy, or the accomplishment of a task.
* τελειόω (teleioō, `{{G5048}}`): "to make perfect," "to bring to an end," "to complete." This term often implies reaching a goal, achieving maturity, or being brought to a state of perfection.
* πληρόω (plēroō, `{{G4137}}`): "to fill," "to complete," "to fulfill." While broader in meaning, it can refer to bringing something to its full measure or extent, thereby completing it.
* συντελέω (synteleō, `{{G4931}}`): "to complete," "to finish together," often with a sense of consummation or bringing something to an ultimate end.
While ἀπαρτισμός specifically denotes the act or state of completing a project, these related terms collectively paint a picture of God's work of bringing all things to their intended conclusion and the human responsibility in persevering in the tasks set before them.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular appearance, ἀπαρτισμός (apartismós, `{{G535}}`) carries significant theological weight within its Lukan context. It serves as a stark warning and a foundational principle for Christian discipleship. The analogy of the tower builder highlights:
1. **The Necessity of Deliberate Commitment:** Following Christ is not a casual decision but a profound commitment that requires careful consideration of its demands. It calls for a realistic assessment of the "cost" involved, encompassing potential sacrifices, challenges, and the dedication required.
2. **Perseverance and Endurance:** The concept of "finishing" implies that the journey of faith is not merely about starting but about enduring to the end. Just as a half-built tower is a monument to folly, an abandoned spiritual journey speaks of a lack of true resolve. This resonates with other New Testament calls to perseverance (e.g., [[Hebrews 12:1-3]], [[Philippians 1:6]]).
3. **The Folly of Unpreparedness:** Jesus' parable warns against superficial or impulsive commitments that lack the necessary foresight and determination, leading to eventual failure and ridicule. True discipleship requires a deep understanding of what it means to follow Christ fully.
While God is faithful to bring to completion the good work He begins in believers (cf. [[Philippians 1:6]]), the human response involves a conscious decision to "count the cost" and commit to the journey with the intention of ἀπαρτισμός – seeing it through to its glorious end.
### Summary
ἀπαρτισμός (apartismós, `{{G535}}`) is a unique and potent Greek term, translated as "completion" or "finishing," found exclusively in [[Luke 14:28]]. It signifies the successful culmination of an undertaking, derived from a root meaning "from now on." In its sole biblical context, it serves as a critical element in Jesus' teaching on the cost of discipleship, emphasizing the imperative for foresight, deliberate commitment, and sufficient resources to bring one's spiritual journey to a successful conclusion. The term underscores the importance of perseverance and warns against commencing the path of faith without a full understanding and resolve, aligning with broader biblical themes of divine faithfulness and human responsibility in fulfilling one's calling.
TRV