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G2088 · Greek · New Testament
ἑτέρως
heterōs
Adverb
differently; otherwise

Definition

An adverb from heteros (G2087, other, different). Heterōs means in a different manner, otherwise, differently. Rare in the NT (appearing in Philippians 3:15), but its root heteros is theologically significant in distinguishing one kind of thing from another.

Usage & Theological Significance

The word heterōs appears only once in the NT — Philippians 3:15 — where Paul writes: 'And if on some point you think differently (heterōs), that too God will make clear to you.' This is a remarkable statement of pastoral grace combined with confidence in divine instruction. Paul does not demand immediate uniformity of theological opinion; he trusts the Spirit's ongoing work to bring alignment. The root heteros runs through important Pauline distinctions: heterodidaskalein (1 Tim. 1:3 — to teach a different, false doctrine), heteros euangelion (Gal. 1:6 — a 'different gospel' which is no gospel at all). The distinction between allos (another of the same kind) and heteros (another of a different kind) matters theologically: there is no other kind of gospel, no heterodox addition to Christ.

Key Bible Verses

Philippians 3:15 All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.
Galatians 1:6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel.
1 Timothy 1:3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer.
1 Corinthians 15:40 There are also heavenly bodies and there are earthly bodies; but the splendor of the heavenly bodies is one kind, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is another kind.
Acts 2:4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

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