πλῆθος

The Greek word *plēthos* generally denotes a multitude, a large number, or a throng. It can refer to a large group of people, often an undifferentiated crowd, or it can describe a large quantity of something non-human. In the New Testament, *plēthos* is frequently used to describe large gatherings of people, whether followers of Jesus, those who came to hear him, or a general populace. Its semantic range emphasizes the numerical quantity rather than the quality or composition of the group.

The term carries significant weight in its use to describe the early Christian community, particularly in the book of Acts. Here, *plēthos* can refer to the "multitude" of believers, highlighting their numerousness and sometimes their collective action or agreement. This usage underscores the rapid growth of the church and the communal aspect of early Christian life. It also appears in contexts where Jesus encountered large crowds eager to hear his teaching or witness his miracles.

While *plēthos* primarily conveys a numerical sense, its theological implication often lies in demonstrating the broad appeal of the gospel and the widespread impact of divine activity. The large groups mentioned signify a significant movement or event. In some instances, the "multitude" is responsive to God's word; in others, it opposes it, showing the diverse reactions to the message of Christ. The term points to the scale of God's work and the human response to it, both positive and negative.