The Greek word apóchrēsis, represented by G671, refers to the act of using up or consumption. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application. Its meaning is tied to the concept of things that are consumed and destroyed through their use.
The single use of G671 is found in a rhetorical question in Colossians. The passage discusses things which G3739 all G3956 are G2076 to G1519 perish G5356 with the using G671. This points to physical or created things that are temporary by nature, as they are consumed or used up. The verse contrasts these fleeting items with the man-made commandments G1778 and G2532 doctrines G1319 that were being imposed on the Colossian believers Colossians 2:22.
Several related words in the immediate context clarify the meaning of G671:
- G5356 phthorá (perish): This word for decay or ruin is directly paired with apóchrēsis, showing that the result of "using" these particular things is their destruction or corruption Galatians 6:8.
- G1778 éntalma (commandment): This refers to a religious precept. The passage contrasts temporary things that perish with the using against the man-made commandments of men G444 Matthew 15:9.
- G1319 didaskalía (doctrine): This term for instruction or teaching is used alongside éntalma. The things that perish are part of a system based on the doctrines of men G444, not divine truth Colossians 2:22.
- G444 ánthrōpos (man): This identifies the source of the doctrines and commandments as human, rather than divine, highlighting their limited and temporary nature Mark 7:7.
The theological weight of G671 is found in its contrast between the temporary and the eternal.
- Transience of Physical Things: The word emphasizes that certain rules and regulations are tied to physical items that are consumed and cease to exist. They are destined to G1519 perish G5356 with the using G671 Colossians 2:22.
- Human-Centered Religion: Its use highlights a critique of religious systems built on the commandments G1778 and G2532 doctrines G1319 of men G444. These are presented as things that are ultimately consumed and lack eternal significance.
- Contrast with Incorruption: The concept of perishing through use stands in opposition to the biblical theme of incorruption. While flesh reaps corruption G5356, the Spirit reaps everlasting life Galatians 6:8.
In summary, apóchrēsis G671 provides a specific and potent concept within its single biblical appearance. It describes the "using up" of things that are temporary by nature. Its significance lies not in the act of consumption itself, but in its use as a powerful argument against focusing on man-made religious rules concerning things that ultimately perish G5356, rather than on divine and eternal truths.
TRV