### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apeithéō**, represented by `{{G544}}`, defines the act of disbelief, specifically in a willful and perverse manner. It is defined as "to disbelieve (wilfully and perversely):--not believe, disobedient, obey not, unbelieving." Occurring **17 times** across **16 unique verses**, its usage in Scripture highlights a deliberate and active rejection of divine truth rather than simple ignorance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G544}}` is used to describe active opposition to God and His message. In the book of Acts, it characterizes the unbelieving (`{{G544}}`) Jews who stirred up (`{{G1892}}`) the Gentiles (`{{G1484}}`) against the believers [[Acts 14:2]]. This disobedience is not passive; it can manifest in public hostility, as when those who believed not (`{{G544}}`) formed a mob and caused an uproar in the city [[Acts 17:5]]. The term is applied broadly to those who "obey not (`{{G544}}`) the gospel of God" [[1 Peter 4:17]] as well as to individuals, such as husbands who "obey not (`{{G544}}`) the word" [[1 Peter 3:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of willful disbelief:
* `{{G543}}` **apeítheia** (disbelief): This noun form describes the state of "disbelief (obstinate and rebellious)." It points to the underlying condition of those who do not believe (`{{G544}}`), a state through which God's mercy is nevertheless demonstrated [[Romans 11:30]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith): As the direct antonym, this word provides a crucial contrast. The difference between one who believes (`{{G4100}}`) and receives everlasting life, and one who believes not (`{{G544}}`) and remains under wrath, is a central theme [[John 3:36]].
* `{{G483}}` **antilégō** (to dispute, refuse): This term describes the verbal expression of disobedience. God speaks of stretching out His hands to a people who are not only disobedient (`{{G544}}`) but also gainsaying (`{{G483}}`) [[Romans 10:21]].
* `{{G4645}}` **sklērýnō** (to indurate, i.e. (figuratively) render stubborn): This word is linked to the cause of unbelief. Scripture records that when some were hardened (`{{G4645}}`) and believed not (`{{G544}}`), they spoke evil of the way [[Acts 19:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G544}}` is significant and carries severe implications.
* **Consequence of Wrath:** The most dire consequence linked to `{{G544}}` is divine judgment. Scripture states that whoever "believeth not (`{{G544}}`) the Son" shall not see life, but the "wrath (`{{G3709}}`) of God abideth (`{{G3306}}`) on him" [[John 3:36]].
* **Stumbling at the Word:** To be disobedient (`{{G544}}`) is to stumble (`{{G4350}}`) at the word (`{{G3056}}`). For those who reject Christ, the cornerstone becomes a "stone (`{{G3037}}`) of stumbling (`{{G4348}}`) and a rock (`{{G4073}}`) of offence (`{{G4625}}`)" [[1 Peter 2:8]].
* **Exclusion from Divine Rest:** Disobedience is explicitly given as the reason for being barred from God's promises. It was to "them that believed not (`{{G544}}`)" that God swore (`{{G3660}}`) they would not enter His rest (`{{G2663}}`) [[Hebrews 3:18]].
* **A Choice for Unrighteousness:** The use of `{{G544}}` denotes a deliberate choice. It describes those who "do not obey (`{{G544}}`) the truth" but instead obey (`{{G3982}}`) unrighteousness (`{{G93}}`), a path that leads to indignation (`{{G2372}}`) and wrath (`{{G3709}}`) [[Romans 2:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G544}}` **apeithéō** is far more than a simple lack of faith. It describes a conscious, stubborn refusal to believe and obey God's revelation, particularly concerning His Son and the gospel. This willful disobedience is shown to manifest in active opposition, hardening of the heart, and outward rebellion. The term's theological gravity is clear, as it is directly associated with stumbling, exclusion from God's promises, and ultimately, abiding under His wrath.
TRV