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G390 · Greek · New Testament
ἀναστρέφω
anastrephō
Verb
anastrephō; to turn up/over; to live; to conduct oneself; to return

Definition

The Greek verb anastrephō (G390) has a range of meanings centered on turning and movement: to turn upside down, to overturn, to return, or (in the middle voice) to live, conduct oneself, or behave. In Matthew 17:22, it describes Jesus and His disciples gathering in Galilee. In 2 Corinthians 1:12, Paul uses it for his manner of life/conduct.

The related noun anastrophē (G391) is the standard New Testament word for "manner of life" or "conduct" (1 Peter 1:15; 1 Peter 2:12; James 3:13).

Usage & Theological Significance

The spectrum of anastrephō's meanings is theologically instructive. In Jesus' hands — overturning the money changers' tables (John 2:15, related word) — it means righteous disruption. In Paul's usage, it means the pattern of one's entire life. In Hebrews 13:18, it means "living honorably in all things."

The Christian life is a complete anastrephō — a turning around at conversion that shapes every subsequent turn of daily conduct. Peter calls believers to "be holy in all your conduct [anastrophē]" (1 Peter 1:15), echoing Leviticus 11:44. The new birth is not merely a spiritual transaction but a complete reorientation of life's direction and manner.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 17:22 When they came together in Galilee, Jesus said to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men."
2 Corinthians 1:12 Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves [anestraphēmen] in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity.
Hebrews 13:18 Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably [kalōs anastrephesthai] in every way.
1 Peter 1:15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.
Ephesians 2:3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts.

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