### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apéchomai**, represented by `{{G567}}`, describes the act of refraining from something. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is defined as holding oneself off from something, carrying the clear idea of a deliberate and reflexive choice to **abstain**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G567}}` is used to command believers to separate themselves from specific sins and practices. It is a key instruction for achieving sanctification, which is described as the will of God, by urging believers to **abstain** from fornication [[1 Thessalonians 4:3]]. The concept is also applied to internal struggles, as believers are beseeched to **abstain** from fleshly lusts which war against the soul [[1 Peter 2:11]]. Furthermore, it was a central directive from the Jerusalem Council to Gentile believers, commanding them to **abstain** from things like pollutions of idols, blood, and things strangled ([[Acts 15:20]], [[Acts 15:29]]). The principle is summarized in the broad command to **abstain** from every form of evil [[1 Thessalonians 5:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the specific areas from which one should abstain:
* `{{G4202}}` **porneía** (fornication): This refers to harlotry, including adultery and incest. Believers are explicitly commanded to abstain from **porneía** as part of their sanctification [[1 Thessalonians 4:3]].
* `{{G1939}}` **epithymía** (lusts): This term signifies a longing, especially for things that are forbidden. It is these **fleshly lusts**, which war against the soul, that believers must refrain from [[1 Peter 2:11]].
* `{{G1494}}` **eidōlóthyton** (meats offered to idols): This refers specifically to an image-sacrifice or a part of an idolatrous offering. Abstaining from **meats offered to idols** was a foundational instruction for early Gentile converts [[Acts 15:29]].
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (evil): A broad term for that which is hurtful, vicious, or culpable. The command to abstain extends to every appearance of **evil** [[1 Thessalonians 5:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G567}}` is rooted in the believer's call to holiness and separation.
* **Sanctification and Purity:** The act of abstaining is directly linked to God's will for a believer's **sanctification** `{{G38}}`. To abstain from **fornication** `{{G4202}}` is not merely a moral suggestion but a core component of being set apart for God [[1 Thessalonians 4:3]].
* **Internal Spiritual Warfare:** The command to abstain from **fleshly** `{{G4559}}` lusts highlights an ongoing battle within the believer. These desires **war** `{{G4754}}` against the **soul** `{{G5590}}`, making abstinence a critical discipline for spiritual survival and health [[1 Peter 2:11]].
* **Distinction from the World:** The apostolic decree for Gentile believers to abstain from idolatrous practices, such as eating **meats offered to idols** `{{G1494}}`, established a clear boundary between the church and surrounding pagan culture [[Acts 15:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G567}}` conveys much more than simple avoidance. It is an active and intentional "holding oneself off" from moral, spiritual, and ceremonial defilement. The term is foundational to the Christian life, defining a pathway of discipline that encompasses sexual purity, the mastery of internal desires, and a clear separation from all forms of evil and idolatry. This deliberate act of abstaining is presented as essential for living a life of sanctification.
TRV