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G468 · Greek · New Testament
ἀνταπόδομα
Antapodoma
Noun, neuter
Recompense / Repayment

Definition

The Greek noun antapodoma (ἀνταπόδομα) means recompense, repayment, or what is paid back in return — a requital for either good or evil. It appears twice in the New Testament (Luke 14:12; Romans 11:9), and the verb antapodidomi appears more widely.

Usage & Theological Significance

The two New Testament uses of antapodoma illuminate the paradox of kingdom generosity. In Luke 14:12–14, Jesus instructs: invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind to your banquet — those who cannot repay you (antapodounai). Why? Because God will repay (antapodothesetai) at the resurrection. The principle subverts all social reciprocity: the kingdom reward comes not from human networks but from divine antapodoma. In Romans 11:9, Paul quotes Psalm 69:22 about God's judgment — their table becoming a trap. Both uses show that divine recompense operates on a timeline and scale beyond human calculation. Give where no human return is possible; trust God's perfect accounting.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 14:12 When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid.
Luke 14:14 Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
Romans 11:9 And David says: 'May their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them.'
Romans 12:17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.
Hebrews 10:30 For we know him who said, 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' and again, 'The Lord will judge his people.'

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External Resources

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