Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • Strong's Hebrew 6430: פְּלִשְׁתִּי (P'lishtiy) • Philistine, used to describe the inhabitants of Philistia, often seen as adversaries of Israel.
• Strong's Hebrew 5236: נָכְרִי (nokriy) • foreign, alien, used to describe someone who is not an Israelite or who belongs to another nation.

This lexical entry provides a comprehensive understanding of the term ἀλλόφυλος, its origins, and its significance within the biblical narrative, highlighting the broader theological implications of the term in the context of the New Testament.

Usage: The word ἀλλόφυλος is used in the New Testament to describe individuals or groups who are not part of the Israelite community. It emphasizes the distinction between the Israelites and other nations or peoples.

Context: The term ἀλλόφυλος appears in the New Testament, specifically in the context of describing those who are not part of the Israelite nation. It is used to highlight the cultural and religious differences between the Israelites and other groups. In the Old Testament, the corresponding Hebrew concept often refers to the Philistines, who were one of the primary adversaries of Israel. The Philistines were a significant presence in the land of Canaan and frequently clashed with the Israelites, as seen in the narratives of Samson, Saul, and David.

In the New Testament, the term is used in Acts 10:28, where Peter speaks about the Jewish custom of not associating with foreigners: "He said to them, 'You know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with a foreigner or visit him. But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean.'" (BSB). This usage underscores the early Christian movement's breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers, as the gospel was extended to all nations.

The concept of ἀλλόφυλος is significant in understanding the early church's mission to transcend ethnic divisions and embrace a universal message of salvation. It reflects the transformative nature of the gospel, which calls for unity among diverse peoples under the lordship of Christ.