The Greek word áthesmos, represented by G113, denotes what is lawless or, by implication, criminal and wicked. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term is derived from a negative particle and a word related to enacting law, signifying a state of being against established order.
In its biblical usage, G113 characterizes those who pose a direct threat to the righteous. It is used to describe the individuals from whom God delivered G4506 "just Lot" G3091, who was vexed by their "filthy conversation" 2 Peter 2:7. The term also appears in a warning for believers to beware G5442 of being "led away with the error of the wicked," which could cause them to "fall from" G1601 their own "stedfastness" 2 Peter 3:17.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of áthesmos:
- G1342 díkaios (just, righteous): As the description of Lot, this word provides a direct contrast to the wicked G113, establishing a clear distinction between the lawless and the righteous 2 Peter 2:7.
- G766 asélgeia (filthy, lasciviousness): This term specifies the nature of the behavior of the wicked that vexed Lot, directly connecting the concept of being lawless with wantonness 2 Peter 2:7.
- G4106 plánē (error, delusion): This word identifies the tool used by the wicked. Their lawlessness is not only behavioral but intellectual, creating a "delusion" that can lead others astray 2 Peter 3:17.
- G1601 ekpíptō (fall away, drop away): This word highlights the severe danger posed by the wicked, as their error can cause believers to lose their spiritual footing and "fall away" 2 Peter 3:17.
The theological significance of G113 revolves around the concepts of spiritual corruption and divine preservation.
- Active Corruption: The wicked are not neutral but actively "vex" G2669 the righteous through their immoral lifestyle, demonstrating that lawlessness has a tangible, oppressive impact on the godly 2 Peter 2:7.
- Spiritual Instability: The "error of the wicked" is a direct threat to a believer's spiritual stability. It is a force that can lead one away from their "stedfastness" G4740, emphasizing the need for vigilance 2 Peter 3:17.
- God's Deliverance: The context of Lot's story shows that God acts to rescue G4506 the just from the influence and presence of the lawless, highlighting a theme of divine protection for the faithful.
In summary, G113 áthesmos is more than a general term for evil; it specifically identifies those who are lawless. This lawlessness is expressed through both morally corrupt behavior that torments the righteous and deceptive error that threatens the stability of believers. The word serves as a crucial warning, contrasting the destructive path of the wicked with the secure "stedfastness" God grants to those He has foreknown.
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