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G1842 · Greek · New Testament
ἐξολοθρεύω
exolothreuo
Verb
to destroy utterly; to exterminate completely

Definition

Exolothreuo combines ex (completely) and olothreuo (to destroy). It appears once in the New Testament — Acts 3:23 — quoting Deuteronomy 18:15-19: 'Every soul who does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed [exolothreuthisetai] from the people.' Peter applies this to Jesus: refusing the Prophet like Moses means utter exclusion from the covenant community.

Usage & Theological Significance

The stakes of rejecting Jesus, according to Acts 3:23, are not merely missing a blessing — they are utter destruction and exclusion from God's people. This is the severity side of the gospel: the same Christ who heals the lame man (Acts 3:8) is the Prophet whose rejection brings exolothreuo. The New Testament does not soften the consequences of unbelief; it heightens them, because the One now being rejected is not merely a prophet but the Son of God. The seriousness of exolothreuo makes the grace of repentance and restoration (Acts 3:19) all the more urgent.

Key Verses

Acts 3:23 And it shall be that every soul who does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed [exolothreuthisetai] from the people.
Deuteronomy 18:19 And whoever will not listen to my words that he shall speak in my name, I myself will require it of him.
Hebrews 2:3 How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?
John 3:36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life.
Acts 3:19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.

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