### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀποκλείω (transliterated as apokleíō, Strong's `{{G608}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἀπό (`{{G575}}`), meaning "from" or "away from," and the verb κλείω (`{{G2808}}`), meaning "to shut" or "to close." The prefix ἀπό intensifies the action of the base verb, conveying a sense of completeness, separation, or finality. Thus, ἀποκλείω means "to close fully," "to shut up completely," or "to shut off." The core meaning implies a definitive and often irreversible act of closing, thereby preventing access or entry. It is not merely a partial or temporary closure, but a thorough and conclusive sealing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἀποκλείω (`{{G608}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, making its singular occurrence particularly impactful.
* **[[Luke 13:25]]**: "When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, open to us,' then he will answer you, 'I do not know where you come from.'"
* In this parable, part of Jesus' teaching on the narrow door and the urgency of seeking the Kingdom of God, the act of the master of the house "shutting the door" (ἀποκλείσῃ τὴν θύραν) is pivotal. The use of ἀποκλείω emphasizes the finality and decisiveness of this action. It signifies the end of a period of opportunity for entry.
* The context is eschatological, pointing to a future moment of divine judgment. Those who previously had the opportunity to enter, but delayed or were not truly committed, find themselves permanently excluded once the door is shut. Their subsequent pleas are met with a definitive rejection, highlighting the irreversible nature of the master's action. The word underscores that there is a set time for entry, and once that time has passed, access is irrevocably denied.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **κλείω (`{{G2808}}`):** The root verb, meaning "to shut" or "to close." ἀποκλείω is a stronger, more absolute form, emphasizing the complete and final nature of the closure.
* **ἀνοίγω (`{{G455}}`):** The direct antonym, meaning "to open." The stark contrast between ἀποκλείω and ἀνοίγω highlights the absolute nature of the closure described by ἀποκλείω.
* **θύρα (`{{G2374}}`):** "Door." This is the object of the action in its sole New Testament occurrence, representing the access point to the Kingdom of God.
* **Concepts:**
* **Exclusion and Inclusion:** The act of ἀποκλείω creates a definitive boundary, separating those who are inside from those who are outside.
* **Finality and Judgment:** In its biblical context, the word points to a decisive, irreversible moment of judgment where opportunities cease.
* **Urgency and Opportunity:** The implication is that there is a limited window of time during which entry is possible before the door is shut.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἀποκλείω in [[Luke 13:25]] carries profound theological implications, particularly concerning salvation, judgment, and the nature of God's invitation.
* **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment:** The "master of the house" represents God or Christ, who holds ultimate authority over entry into the Kingdom. The act of ἀποκλείω underscores divine sovereignty in determining who enters and who is excluded, signifying a final, unalterable decision.
* **The Narrow Door and Urgency of Response:** This word reinforces Jesus' teaching about the "narrow door" (cf. [[Luke 13:24]]). It serves as a solemn warning that the opportunity for salvation is not indefinite. There is a period of grace and invitation, but it is finite. The "shutting up" of the door signifies the end of this period, emphasizing the urgency of a timely and genuine response to the Gospel.
* **Consequences of Procrastination and Superficial Faith:** The imagery powerfully conveys the irreversible consequences for those who delay their commitment, fail to truly repent, or possess a superficial faith. Once the door is ἀποκλείω-ed, pleas for entry are met with a definitive "I do not know where you come from," indicating a lack of true relationship or genuine discipleship during the time of opportunity.
* **Exclusivity of the Kingdom:** While God's invitation is broad, the ultimate entry into the Kingdom is exclusive, determined by a relationship with the Master. The act of ἀποκλείω highlights that there will be a clear distinction between those who are truly known by the Master and those who are not, at the appointed time of reckoning.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀποκλείω (`{{G608}}`) means "to close fully" or "to shut up," emphasizing a complete and final closure. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Luke 13:25]] is highly significant, portraying the master of the house definitively "shutting the door." This act serves as a powerful eschatological metaphor, illustrating the irreversible moment when the opportunity for entry into God's Kingdom ceases. The word underscores the divine sovereignty in judgment, the critical importance of responding to Christ's invitation with urgency and sincerity in the present, and the dire consequences of spiritual procrastination or a superficial faith. It highlights the finality of exclusion for those who fail to enter through the narrow door before it is irrevocably ἀποκλείω-ed, serving as a solemn warning and a call to immediate, earnest discipleship.
TRV