Brief Overview of πειθαρχέω (Strong’s G3980: peitharcheō)
Strong’s G3980: A compound verb from πείθω (to obey) and ἀρχή (rule/authority), meaning to obey one in authority. Used particularly for submission to legitimate authority. In NT context, emphasizes obedience to God over human authorities when they conflict, and proper response to governing authorities.
U- Unveiling the Word
Πειθαρχέω represents principled obedience to authority, particularly significant in contexts of competing loyalties. In Acts, it appears in crucial moments when the apostles must choose between divine and human authority. Early church writers used it to discuss proper Christian response to governing powers. Today, it helps believers navigate the complex relationship between spiritual and secular authority.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: πειθαρχέω, peitharcheō, [pay-thar-KEH-oh]
- Detailed pronunciation: pay-thar-KHEH-oh
- Part of Speech: Verb
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Etymology:
- πείθω (to persuade, obey)
- ἀρχή (rule, authority)
- Compound verb formation
- -έω verb ending
D – Defining Meanings
- To obey authority
- To submit to rulers
- To follow leaders
- To comply with command
For compound words:
- πειθ- conveys obedience/compliance
- -αρχ- indicates authority/rule
- Combined meaning: authority-directed obedience
Translation Options:
- To obey authority – Most precise
- To submit – General sense
- To comply with rulers – Contextual meaning
E – Exploring Similar Words
- ὑπακούω [hypakouō, hoop-a-KOO-oh] – to obey generally
- πείθομαι [peithomai, PAY-tho-my] – to be persuaded
- ὑποτάσσω [hypotassō, hoop-o-TASS-oh] – to submit
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Verb features:
- Present Active: πειθαρχέω
- Future: πειθαρχήσω
- Aorist: ἐπειθάρχησα
- Regular -έω conjugation
- Cross-references: πειθαρχία (obedience to authority)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its political/social context. Thayer’s notes its compound nature. LSJ traces civic usage. Vine’s highlights its theological implications. Moulton and Milligan show administrative usage.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
“But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: ‘We ought to obey [πειθαρχέω] God rather than men.'” (Acts 5:29)
Additional References:
Acts 27:21, Titus 3:1
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Sophocles: Antigone | “One must obey [πειθαρχέω] the city’s appointed rulers.” |
| Xenophon: Cyropaedia | “The soldiers learned to obey [πειθαρχέω] their commanders.” |
| Plato: Laws | “Citizens should obey [πειθαρχέω] the established laws.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
Πειθαρχέω teaches us about properly ordered authority and ultimate allegiance to God. While Christians are called to respect earthly authorities, our highest loyalty belongs to God. This principle guides believers in navigating complex moral and political landscapes while maintaining faithful witness.
D – Did You Know?
- Used in military contexts for chain of command
- Key term in Greek political philosophy
- Influenced early Christian views on church-state relations
Strong’s G3980: A compound verb from πείθω (to obey) and ἀρχή (rule/authority), meaning to obey one in authority. Used particularly for submission to legitimate authority. In NT context, emphasizes obedience to God over human authorities when they conflict.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: #Obedience #Authority #Submission #Government #DivineAuthority #ChristianWitness #CivilAuthority #Loyalty #Acts #ChurchAndState
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