### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **arnéomai**, represented by `{{G720}}`, means to contradict, disavow, reject, or abnegate. It is based on the idea of contradicting or refusing something. It appears **33 times** across **28 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its importance in contexts of confession, loyalty, and apostasy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G720}}` is used to describe several forms of denial. Most famously, it is used for Peter's repeated **denial** of Jesus, where he claimed "I know not the man" ([[Matthew 26:72]], [[John 18:25]]). The term also carries significant theological weight, describing those who **deny** the Lord [[2 Peter 2:1]], and defining an **antichrist** as one who **denieth** the Father and the Son [[1 John 2:22]]. It can also refer to a denial through actions, such as when individuals profess to know God but **deny** him by their works [[Titus 1:16]], or when one fails to provide for their own household, having **denied** the faith [[1 Timothy 5:8]]. Conversely, believers are called to **deny** ungodliness and worldly lusts [[Titus 2:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of denial, confession, and opposition:
* `{{G533}}` **aparnéomai** (to deny utterly, i.e. disown, abstain): This intensified form of denial is used when Jesus calls his followers to **deny** themselves and take up their cross [[Luke 9:23]].
* `{{G3670}}` **homologéō** (to assent, i.e. covenant, acknowledge): Often used as a direct contrast to denial, this word means to confess or profess. It appears in the account of John the Baptist, who **confessed**, and **denied** not, that he was not the Christ [[John 1:20]].
* `{{G569}}` **apistéō** (to be unbelieving, i.e. (transitively) disbelieve, or (by implication) disobey): This word relates to a state of unbelief. It is used in a powerful statement of God's character: "If we **believe not**, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot **deny** `{{G720}}` himself" [[2 Timothy 2:13]].
* `{{G500}}` **antíchristos** (an opponent of the Messiah): This term is explicitly linked to the act of denial, defining an **antichrist** as one who **denieth** that Jesus is the Christ [[1 John 2:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G720}}` is profound, outlining the boundaries of faith and the consequences of rejection.
* **Doctrinal Rejection:** To **deny** Jesus is to reject his identity as the Christ and Son of God. John states that whoever **denieth** the Son does not have the Father [[1 John 2:23]].
* **Reciprocal Consequences:** Jesus warns that the act of denial has an eternal echo. Whoever shall **deny** him before men, him will he also **deny** before his Father in heaven ([[Matthew 10:33]], [[2 Timothy 2:12]]).
* **Denial by Works:** A person's actions can constitute a denial of God. Those who have a form of godliness but **deny** its power are to be turned away from [[2 Timothy 3:5]], and those who are disobedient and reprobate **deny** God in their works [[Titus 1:16]].
* **Divine Faithfulness:** In a striking contrast, the term is used to affirm God's immutable character. While humans may be faithless, God cannot **deny** himself, remaining ever faithful [[2 Timothy 2:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G720}}` is a critical term that extends beyond simple refusal. It encompasses verbal disavowal, doctrinal apostasy, and practical rejection through one's lifestyle. The concept serves as a solemn warning about the consequences of turning away from Christ, while simultaneously highlighting the absolute faithfulness of God, who by His very nature cannot deny His own character or promises.
TRV