The Greek word apostréphō, represented by G654, describes the act of turning something away or back. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses. Derived from ἀπό (from) and στρέφω (to turn), its meaning can be literal, such as putting an object back in its place, or figurative, encompassing concepts like perverting the truth, bringing something back, or turning away from a person or teaching.
In the biblical narrative, G654 is used in several distinct contexts. It can describe a literal command, as when Jesus tells his disciple to "put up again" his sword into its place Matthew 26:52. Figuratively, it is used to describe God's redemptive work, such as when the Deliverer "shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob" Romans 11:26 or when Jesus is sent to bless people by "turning away every one" from their iniquities Acts 3:26. The word can also carry a negative connotation of accusation, as when Jesus was charged with being one that "perverteth the people" Luke 23:14.
Several related words expand on the concept of turning towards or away from something:
- G1624 ektrépō (to deflect, i.e. turn away): This word is used in parallel with G654 to describe those who turn from truth to fables, showing a deliberate deflection from what is right 2 Timothy 4:4.
- G3338 metaméllomai (to care afterwards, i.e. regret): This word for repentance is linked to the action of G654. After Judas "repented himself" G3338, he "brought again" G654 the thirty pieces of silver, showing an outward action following an inward regret Matthew 27:3.
- G3868 paraitéomai (to beg off, i.e. deprecate, decline, shun): This term for refusing or rejecting is used to warn believers not to "refuse" G3868 God, reinforcing the danger of choosing to "turn away from" G654 His heavenly voice Hebrews 12:25.
- G4337 proséchō (to hold the mind towards, i.e. pay attention to, be cautious about): This word stands in contrast to G654. Believers are warned against "giving heed" G4337 to commandments of men that "turn from" G654 the truth, highlighting the choice between paying attention and turning away Titus 1:14.
The theological weight of G654 is significant, often illustrating a critical turning point in one's relationship with God or truth.
- Divine Intervention: The word is used to describe a sovereign act of God, where He is the one who initiates salvation by turning people away from their iniquities G4189 and ungodliness (Acts 3:26, Romans 11:26).
- Human Rejection: Conversely, G654 signifies a deliberate human choice to reject God and His message. This is seen when people "turn away their ears from the truth" 2 Timothy 4:4 or "turn away from" the one speaking from heaven Hebrews 12:25.
- Active Perversion: The term is used to define the malicious act of leading others astray. The accusation that Jesus "perverteth the people" highlights how turning can be an act of corrupting influence Luke 23:14.
- Personal Responsibility: The command to not "turn... away" from someone in need implies a personal, ethical responsibility to act with generosity rather than rejection Matthew 5:42.
In summary, G654 is a dynamic word that captures the crucial act of turning. It is not a passive drift but a decisive movement, either away from sin and toward God, or away from truth and toward error. Whether describing God's power to restore, humanity's capacity for rejection, the act of perverting truth, or a simple command to return an object, apostréphō consistently marks a pivotal change in direction, both physically and spiritually.
TRV