The Greek word apōthéomai, represented by G683, is a strong term meaning to push off or, figuratively, to reject. It is used in scripture with force, conveying actions like "cast away," "put away," or "thrust away." This word appears 10 times across 6 unique verses, highlighting pivotal moments of rejection.
In the biblical narrative, G683 is used to describe decisive acts of rejection against God's authority and message. In Stephen's address, he recounts how an Israelite thrust Moses away, questioning his authority as a ruler G758 and judge G1348 Acts 7:27. This pattern of rejection continued when their fathers refused to obey Moses and thrust him from them Acts 7:39. Similarly, Paul and Barnabas declare that because the Jews put the word of God from them, they were turning to the Gentiles Acts 13:46. The term is also used theologically when Paul asks if God has cast away His people, asserting that God has not rejected those whom He foreknew G4267 Romans 11:1-2.
Several related words help clarify the context and consequences of this rejection:
- G4762 stréphō (to turn quite around or reverse): This word often appears alongside G683 to show the alternative action taken after rejection. When the fathers thrust Moses from them, they turned back again in their hearts to Egypt Acts 7:39.
- G3489 nauagéō (to be shipwrecked): This illustrates the dire consequence of rejecting faith. In 1 Timothy, those who have put away a good conscience have made shipwreck concerning the faith 1 Timothy 1:19.
- G758 árchōn (a first (in rank or power)): This word defines what is being rejected. The Israelites thrust Moses away after he was appointed to be a ruler over them Acts 7:27.
- G5255 hypḗkoos (attentively listening, i.e. (by implication) submissive): This highlights the disobedience inherent in the act of rejection. The fathers would not obey, but instead thrust Moses from them Acts 7:39.
The theological weight of G683 is significant, centering on the human response to divine initiative.
- Rejection of God's Messengers: The word is used to describe Israel's repeated rejection of God's appointed leader, Moses, setting a precedent for spurning divine authority (Acts 7:27, Acts 7:39).
- Rejection of the Gospel: The act of putting from oneself the word of God is shown to have direct consequences, leading to the gospel being offered to the Gentiles Acts 13:46.
- Contrasting Divine Faithfulness: The term is powerfully used to contrast human faithlessness with God's fidelity. While people may cast away faith, Paul uses the same word to affirm that God has not cast away His people Romans 11:1-2.
- Personal Apostasy: To put away faith and a good conscience is portrayed as a deliberate, personal choice that results in spiritual ruin, or shipwreck 1 Timothy 1:19.
In summary, G683 is more than a simple refusal; it signifies a forceful and final act of pushing away or casting off. From the historical rejection of Moses to the personal act of forsaking faith, the word underscores the gravity of spurning God's revelation and authority. Its use also provides a stark contrast to God's own character, as He does not cast away the people He has chosen.
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