### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **apotómōs**, represented by `{{G664}}`, describes an action done abruptly or peremptorily. Its root meaning involves the idea "to cut," conveying a sense of severity and sharpness. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its specific and potent application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{G664}}` is used to describe a necessary severity in leadership and correction. In Titus, Paul instructs that certain individuals must be rebuked **sharply** with the goal that they "may be sound in the faith" [[Titus 1:13]]. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul expresses his hope to not **use sharpness** when he is present, reminding them that his God-given authority is for "edification, and not to destruction" [[2 Corinthians 13:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and purpose of using `{{G664}}` sharpness:
* `{{G1651}}` **elénchō** (to confute, admonish): This is the action that is to be performed sharply. It is used when leaders must "convince the gainsayers" with sound doctrine [[Titus 1:9]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (delegated influence): This is the authority or **power** that enables a leader to act with sharpness. Paul states this power was given to him by the Lord [[2 Corinthians 13:10]], and Jesus himself declared that "All **power** is given unto me in heaven and in earth" [[Matthew 28:18]].
* `{{G3619}}` **oikodomḗ** (building, edification): This is the ultimate goal of exercising authority. Paul's power is given "to **edification**," a principle of building up that is echoed in the instruction for believers to pursue "things wherewith one may **edify** another" [[Romans 14:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G664}}` centers on the nature and purpose of spiritual authority and discipline.
* **Restorative Correction:** Sharpness is not for punishment but for restoration. The explicit goal of the sharp rebuke in Titus is to make believers **sound** (`hygiaínō`) in the **faith** (`pístis`) [[Titus 1:13]].
* **Purpose of Authority:** The use of sharpness is tied directly to the divine purpose of the authority granted. It is to be used for **edification** (`oikodomḗ`) and explicitly "not to **destruction**" (`kathaíresis`) [[2 Corinthians 13:10]].
* **Guarding Doctrine:** The context of a sharp rebuke is often the presence of teaching that is contrary to "sound doctrine." The use of `{{G664}}` therefore serves as a protective measure for the health of the church.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G664}}` is a potent adverb signifying a sharp and abrupt manner. Though used only twice, it defines a critical aspect of church leadership: the need for severe correction when necessary. Its use is always governed by the holder's divine **power** (`exousía`) and is strictly intended for the constructive purpose of **edification** and restoring believers to a **sound** faith, never for their destruction.
TRV