☀️
← Back to Lexicon
G672 · Greek · New Testament
ἀποχωρέω
Apochoreo
Verb
To Depart / To Withdraw / To Go Away

Definition

The Greek verb apochoreo means to depart, to withdraw, to go away from. It combines apo- (away) and choreo (to go/make room). The word is used for physical withdrawal and appears in the chilling context of Jesus' warning about those who will be told to depart at the final judgment.

Usage & Theological Significance

Apochoreo appears in Matthew 7:23 in one of Jesus' most sobering warnings: I will tell them plainly, I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers. This word of final separation — spoken to those who called Jesus Lord and even performed miracles in His name — underscores that genuine relationship with Christ is the only criterion of ultimate acceptance. The word of departing can also be used for physical withdrawals (Luke 9:39, Acts 13:13), but its use in Matthew 7 gives it permanent theological weight as the final word of exclusion from God's presence.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 7:23 Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me [apochorete], you evildoers!'
Luke 9:39 A spirit seizes him and he suddenly screams; it throws him into convulsions so that he foams at the mouth. It scarcely ever leaves [apochorei] him.
Acts 13:13 From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem.
Matthew 25:41 Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire.'
Revelation 20:15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.

Related Words

External Resources