The Greek word apekdýomai, represented by G554, means to "divest wholly oneself, or (for oneself) despoil." It is commonly translated as put off or spoil. This specific term appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, yet it carries significant weight in its contexts.
The two uses of G554 in scripture highlight a dual application of its meaning. First, it is used to describe Christ's victory over spiritual forces, where he is depicted as having spoiled principalities and powers Colossians 2:15. In its second use, it shifts to the believer's personal responsibility, instructing them that they have put off the old man with his deeds, a prerequisite to no longer lying to one another Colossians 3:9.
Several related words clarify the contexts in which G554 is used:
- G746 archḗ: This word means "a commencement, or (concretely) chief... principality, rule." It is used to describe the spiritual principalities that were spoiled by Christ Colossians 2:15 and against which believers wrestle Ephesians 6:12.
- G3820 palaiós: Meaning "antique, i.e. not recent, worn out:--old," this term defines the old man, the former self that believers are to have put off Colossians 3:9. This concept is also referenced in Romans 6:6 where the "old man is crucified with him."
- G4234 prâxis: This term is defined as "practice, i.e. (concretely) an act; by extension, a function:--deed, office, work." It refers to the deeds of the old man that are to be shed along with the old nature itself Colossians 3:9.
The theological weight of G554 is seen in its application to both Christ's work and the Christian life.
- Christ's Victorious Disarmament: The word is used to express the totality of Christ's victory. By "spoiling" principalities G746 and powers G1849, he has disarmed and divested them of their authority Colossians 2:15.
- Decisive Sanctification: For the believer, "putting off" the old G3820 man is not a gradual process but a decisive action. This act is linked to a change in behavior, such as ceasing to lie G5574 Colossians 3:9.
- Shedding the Old Nature: The concept of putting off the "old man with his deeds G4234" signifies a complete break from a former way of life, much like taking off a set of worn-out clothes. This act is a fundamental aspect of the believer's new identity.
In summary, G554 is a powerful verb that conveys a sense of complete and decisive removal. It uniquely captures both the cosmic victory of Christ over spiritual powers and the personal, transformative act required of believers. It demonstrates that the same power that spoiled hostile principalities is at work in the believer who has put off the old man and his deeds.
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