### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apokatallássō**, represented by `{{G604}}`, defines the action **to reconcile fully**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from ἀπό and καταλλάσσω, the term communicates a complete and thorough restoration from a prior state of hostility or separation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G604}}` describes God's definitive act of restoring a broken relationship. This reconciliation is comprehensive, intended to **reconcile** all things in heaven and earth to himself through the peace made by the "blood of his cross" [[Colossians 1:20]]. The term is applied to those who were once "alienated and enemies" but have now been brought into a state of peace [[Colossians 1:21]]. It is also used to show how the cross unites divided parties, so that God might **reconcile** both "unto God in one body," effectively slaying the enmity that separated them [[Ephesians 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the state from which reconciliation is necessary:
* `{{G526}}` **apallotrióō** (to estrange away... alienate, be alien): This word describes the initial condition of separation. Those who are reconciled were once **alienated** and cut off from a relationship with God [[Colossians 1:21]].
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (an adversary... enemy, foe): This term defines the hostile relationship that is resolved through reconciliation. Scripture states that people were **enemies** in their minds before this divine intervention [[Colossians 1:21]].
* `{{G2189}}` **échthra** (hostility... enmity, hatred): This noun signifies the active opposition that is nullified by reconciliation. The act of reconciling slays the **enmity**, removing the reason for opposition [[Ephesians 2:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G604}}` is centered on the resolution of sin and separation.
* **Resolution of Enmity:** The word addresses a fundamental state of hostility toward God. Before reconciliation, individuals are described not just as distant but as **enemies** `{{G2190}}` who were **alienated** `{{G526}}` because of wicked works [[Colossians 1:21]].
* **The Cross as the Means:** The act of being fully reconciled is directly and exclusively attributed to the cross. It is "by the cross" that God reconciles humanity to Himself, "having slain the enmity" [[Ephesians 2:16]]. Peace is established "through the blood of his cross" [[Colossians 1:20]].
* **A Complete Restoration to God:** The reconciliation is not partial but complete. The goal is to **reconcile** all things to God `{{G2316}}`, bringing formerly hostile parties into "one body" [[Ephesians 2:16]] and presenting them as holy and blameless before Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G604}}` is more than a term for mending a disagreement; it represents a divine and total restoration from a state of alienation and enmity. This full reconciliation is accomplished through the cross, resolving deep-seated hostility and bringing former enemies into a peaceful relationship with God. Its use in Scripture underscores the power of the cross to fundamentally change a person's standing before God.
TRV