ἀφορίζω (Aphorizō): Set Apart for the Gospel of God

Reformed Thinking · Apr 9, 2026 · 39m · transcript

Deep Dive into ἀφορίζωThe Greek verb aphorizō literally translates to marking off by boundaries, dividing, or setting apart. In biblical contexts, it frequently describes the physical or metaphorical separation of groups or individuals to eliminate contact. Most notably, it appears in eschatological passages to depict the final judgment, where Jesus will separate the wicked from the righteous in the same way a shepherd parts sheep from goats. Additionally, the term is used to describe social exclusion or excommunication from a community. Conversely, it holds a positive theological meaning…