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.
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.
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.
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.
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