Lexical Summary apousia: Absence Original Word: ἀπουσία Strong's Exhaustive Concordance absence. From the participle of apeimi; a being away -- absence. see GREEK apeimi NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom fem. part. of apeimi Definition a being away, i.e. absence NASB Translation absence (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 666: ἀπουσίᾳἀπουσίᾳ, ἀπουσιας, ἡ (ἀπειναι), absence: Philippians 2:12. (From Aeschylus down.) Topical Lexicon Definition within the Canonἀπουσία (apousia) denotes physical non-presence. In Scripture it occurs once, Philippians 2:12, where Paul contrasts his bodily absence with the continuing obedience of the Philippian believers. Biblical Usage Philippians 2:12: “So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” Paul’s single use of ἀπουσία functions rhetorically, underscoring that genuine faithfulness is measured when apostolic oversight is removed. Presence and Absence in Pauline Ministry Paul routinely balanced the realities of presence (παρουσία) and absence (ἀπουσία, ἀπών, κ.τ.λ.): • Presence allowed direct teaching and modeling (Acts 20:18–35; 1 Thessalonians 2:7–12). Philippians 2:12 epitomizes this rhythm, showing Paul’s confidence that Spirit-empowered maturity does not depend on perpetual external supervision. Implications for Christian Obedience 1. God-centered Motivation – True obedience arises from reverence for God, not merely human accountability (Ephesians 6:6). Historical Background Philippi, a Roman colony loyal to Paul, had earlier sent aid through Epaphroditus (Philippians 4:14–18). Paul, imprisoned and unsure of the outcome (1:20–26), prepared them to thrive without him, anticipating possible martyrdom (2:17). The term ἀπουσία therefore carries pastoral urgency, preparing the church for a future devoid of Paul’s physical counsel. Theological Significance • Sanctification – The verb “work out” (κατεργάζεσθε) paired with ἀπουσία highlights the believer’s active role under God’s sovereign enabling (2:13). Applications for Church Life • Discipleship structures should aim for maturity that withstands leadership transitions. Related Themes and Cross-References Authentic conduct apart from supervision: Genesis 39:7-12; Proverbs 6:6-11; Luke 16:10. Leader absence as a proving ground: Exodus 32:1; 2 Kings 2:15; 3 John 4. Divine presence as ultimate security: Psalm 139:7-12; John 14:18; Revelation 21:3. Summary ἀπουσία in Philippians 2:12 crystallizes a crucial New Testament principle: believers are to exhibit ever-growing, God-fearing obedience that does not falter when apostolic eyes are absent, because the indwelling presence of God Himself remains. Forms and Transliterations απέφηνεν απουσια απουσία ἀπουσίᾳ αποφήναι apousia apousíāiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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