ἀντικαθίστημι (antikathistēmi)
antikathistēmi
to resist
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb antikathistēmi carries the force of standing against something or setting it in opposition. Its structure combines a prefix meaning "against" with a root meaning "to place" or "to set," creating an image of positioning one thing directly opposite another. In its active sense, it can mean to replace or supersede, but in the New Testament, it is used specifically to describe resistance.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 12:4. The author uses it to urge believers to endure hardship without yielding to sin, describing a struggle that requires active resistance against evil. The context suggests a firm, steadfast opposition rather than a passive avoidance, emphasizing the moral effort required to remain faithful under pressure.
Translators typically render this term as "resist" or "stand against," capturing its combative yet defensive tone. Unlike words that imply merely opposing an idea, antikathistēmi implies a physical or structural opposition, as if setting up a barrier. This usage highlights the intensity of the spiritual conflict described in Hebrews, where believers are called to actively oppose sin rather than simply ignore it.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word antikathistēmi paints a picture of standing firm in opposition. It is not about passive avoidance but active resistance. In Hebrews 12:4, we are reminded that this struggle can be intense, even to the point of bloodshed. This reality validates the weight of your daily spiritual battles.
When you face temptation or pressure, you are not alone in feeling the strain. The text encourages us to recognize that resisting sin is a serious endeavor. It requires effort and steadfastness. You do not need to fight this battle with your own strength alone.
Instead, look to the example of Christ who endured such hostility. His victory gives you hope. As you stand against what opposes God’s will, remember that your labor in the Lord is never in vain. This resilience is a gift of grace, sustaining you through every trial.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- have you resisted1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀντικατέστητε1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 12:4
You have not yet resisted to blood, striving against sin.
This verse uses the term to describe the intensity of spiritual warfare, noting that believers have not yet resisted to blood.