The Greek word aischrokerdōs, represented by G147, is an adverb that means sordidly. It is used in scripture to describe a motivation for action driven by shameful or greedy gain, translated as for filthy lucre's sake. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application.
The sole appearance of G147 is in 1 Peter 5:2, where it is used to define an improper motivation for spiritual leadership. The verse instructs leaders to "Feed G4165 the flock G4168 of God G2316," but provides crucial qualifications for how this duty should be performed. The instruction specifies "not G3366 for filthy lucre G147, but G235 of a ready mind G4290" 1 Peter 5:2. In this context, G147 is placed in direct opposition to serving eagerly and with a proper spirit, marking the pursuit of sordid gain as a disqualifying motive for overseeing God's people.
Several words used alongside G147 in its only context help clarify its meaning by contrast:
- G4165 poimaínō (to tend as a shepherd): This is the primary verb of the command, establishing the role of a leader as one who must feed and care for the flock 1 Peter 5:2.
- G317 anankastōs (compulsorily): This adverb describes the first negative motivation that leaders must avoid, serving by constraint rather than freely 1 Peter 5:2.
- G1596 hekousíōs (willingly): This is the positive counterpart to serving by constraint, indicating that leadership should be undertaken willingly and voluntarily 1 Peter 5:2.
- G4290 prothýmōs (with alacrity): This adverb is the direct positive contrast to G147, showing that the proper motivation is eagerness and readiness, not sordid gain 1 Peter 5:2.
The theological weight of G147 is focused entirely on the heart and motivation behind Christian service.
- Purity of Motive: Its use establishes a critical distinction between serving God and pursuing personal enrichment. The command in 1 Peter 5:2 makes it clear that leadership in the church must not be corrupted by a desire for filthy lucre.
- Heart Attitude in Service: The word is part of a series of contrasts (constraint vs. willingness; sordid gain vs. readiness) that collectively underscore the importance of a leader's inner disposition. God is concerned not just with the act of service but with the spirit in which it is done.
- Stewardship over God's Flock: The warning against serving for G147 reinforces that leaders are stewards, not owners, of the flock of God (G4168, G2316). The flock exists for God's purposes, not for the leader's financial benefit.
In summary, while G147 is a rare word, its single use in scripture is powerful. It functions as a sharp warning against corrupt motivations in spiritual leadership. By being contrasted with serving willingly G1596 and with a ready mind G4290, aischrokerdōs helps to define the pure-hearted stewardship required of those who would feed G4165 the people of God.
TRV