The Greek verb luō means to loose, to unbind, to release, to dissolve, or to destroy. It occurs about 42 times in the New Testament, spanning the range from literally untying an animal or sandal strap to metaphorically abolishing the law, releasing from bondage, and dissolving the present created order.
Luō is embedded in some of the most important theological moments of the New Testament. John the Baptist uses it in self-humiliation: 'I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the straps of his sandals' (Mark 1:7). Jesus uses the binding/loosing contrast (deō/luō) in Matthew 16:19 and 18:18 to describe the authority of the church in covenant discipline and the keys of the kingdom. The dramatic end of Lazarus' narrative — 'Take off the grave clothes and let him go' (John 11:44) — uses luō as the final act of resurrection restoration. 2 Peter 3:10–12 uses it eschatologically: the present heavens and earth will be 'dissolved' (luō), giving way to the new creation.