from ἐν and the base of τροπή; to invert, i.e. (figuratively and reflexively) in a good sense, to respect; or in a bad one, to confound:--regard, (give) reference, shame.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1788 (ἐντρέπω), transliterated as *entrépō*, is a compound word derived from the preposition ἐν (meaning "in" or "into") and the base of τροπή (meaning "a turning"). This etymology suggests a fundamental sense of "turning in" or "turning upon oneself." This core concept yields a fascinating and distinct dual semantic range within the New Testament, often determined by context and the grammatical voice.
In its positive application, ἐντρέπω signifies to "respect," "reverence," or "regard." Here, the "turning in" implies an inward turning of the mind or heart towards someone or something out of deference, honor, or awe. It denotes a recognition of another's authority, dignity, or worth, leading to a deferential attitude.
Conversely, in its negative application, ἐντρέπω means to "put to shame," "confound," or "make ashamed." In this sense, the "turning in" refers to an inward turning of the self due to humiliation, disgrace, or exposure of wrongdoing. It can describe the act of causing someone to experience this internal discomfort, often with the intent of correction or conviction. The reflexive use of the verb (passive voice often implying reflexive meaning) can denote "to be ashamed."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of G1788 in the New Testament beautifully illustrate its bifurcated meaning:
**1. To Respect/Reverence:**
This sense is prominently featured in the Synoptic Gospels within the Parable of the Wicked Tenants. In [[Matthew 21:37]], [[Mark 12:6]], and [[Luke 20:13]], the owner of the vineyard, having sent various servants, finally sends his beloved son, reasoning, "They will respect my son." The expectation is that the tenants, despite their previous rebellion, would finally acknowledge the ultimate authority and heir, turning in deference towards him. The tragic irony is that they do not, leading to the son's murder. This highlights a fundamental human failure to show due regard for divine authority.
Similarly, in [[Hebrews 12:9]], the author uses ἐντρέπω to describe the respect children give to their earthly fathers: "Furthermore, we had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them." This respect for human authority, even in the context of discipline, serves as an *a fortiori* argument for submitting to God, the Father of spirits. The verb here underscores the appropriate and expected posture of honor towards a disciplining parent.
**2. To Shame/Confound:**
This application often carries a corrective or demonstrative purpose. In [[1 Corinthians 4:14]], Paul writes to the Corinthian believers, "I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children." Here, Paul clarifies his intent: while his words might expose their failings and *could* lead to shame, his ultimate goal is paternal instruction and guidance, not mere humiliation. The potential for shame serves as a catalyst for self-reflection and change, but it is not the primary aim.
In [[2 Thessalonians 3:14]], Paul instructs the community concerning those who are idle and disorderly: "If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he may be ashamed." The purpose of social exclusion is not punitive isolation but redemptive shame. The intent is that the individual, experiencing the discomfort of being set apart, would turn inward, recognize their error, and be motivated to change their behavior and conform to the community's standards.
Finally, in [[Titus 2:8]], Paul exhorts Titus to "sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that anyone who opposes you may be ashamed, having nothing bad to say about us." Here, ἐντρέπω describes the effect of blameless living and sound doctrine on opponents. The consistent, righteous conduct of believers, coupled with truthful teaching, leaves detractors without valid grounds for accusation, thereby causing them to be confounded and put to shame by the undeniable integrity of the Christian witness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic range of G1788 intersects with several other significant Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **For Respect/Honor:**
* τιμάω (`{{G5091}}`): "to honor, value." While τιμάω denotes the act of bestowing honor, ἐντρέπω emphasizes the internal posture of reverence or deference, the "turning inward" of one's attitude.
* φοβέω (`{{G5399}}`): "to fear, be afraid," but also "to revere, stand in awe." This term often describes a reverential fear of God. While φοβέω can imply a healthy awe that leads to obedience, ἐντρέπω focuses more on the recognition of worth and the resulting respectful disposition.
* **For Shame/Disgrace:**
* αἰσχύνω (`{{G153}}`): "to shame, disgrace." This is a broader term for causing shame or being ashamed.
* καταισχύνω (`{{G2617}}`): "to put to shame, disgrace utterly." This often carries a stronger sense of public humiliation or utter defeat.
ἐντρέπω, when used in the sense of "shame," often implies a corrective or pedagogical intent, or the shame that arises from being exposed as wrong or without valid argument. It's not merely disgrace, but a turning inward due to one's own failings being brought to light.
* **Related Concepts:**
* **Humility:** The act of showing respect often flows from a humble recognition of another's superior position or worth.
* **Discipline:** In both senses, ἐντρέπω relates to discipline. Respect for authority facilitates submission to discipline, while the experience of shame can be a disciplinary tool leading to repentance.
* **Repentance (μετάνοια - `{{G3341}}`):** The shame caused by ἐντρέπω is often intended to lead to a change of mind and heart.
### Theological Significance
The dual nature of ἐντρέπω offers profound theological insights into God's relationship with humanity and human relationships within the community of faith.
Firstly, the expectation of ἐντρέπω (respect) from God's perspective, as seen in the Parable of the Tenants, underscores the inherent dignity and authority of divine revelation and, supremely, of God's Son. The failure to show this respect is not merely a social faux pas but a profound spiritual rebellion with eternal consequences. It highlights humanity's propensity to disregard divine claims, even when presented with ultimate authority and love.
Secondly, the use of ἐντρέπω to "shame" within the Christian community reveals a nuanced understanding of discipline. Unlike worldly shaming that aims to ostracize or condemn, biblical shaming (e.g., [[2 Thessalonians 3:14]]) is a redemptive tool. It is a form of tough love, designed to create an internal crisis that prompts self-reflection, repentance, and ultimately, restoration to right conduct and fellowship. It is a testament to God's desire for His children to walk in integrity, even if it requires uncomfortable introspection.
Thirdly, the power of a blameless life to ἐντρέπω (shame) opponents, as seen in [[Titus 2:8]], speaks to the apologetic and evangelistic power of Christian conduct. When believers live consistently with the truth they proclaim, their lives become an irrefutable testimony that silences critics and exposes the emptiness of their accusations. This demonstrates that theological truth is not merely abstract but is embodied in transformed lives, which themselves bear witness to the power of the Gospel.
### Summary
The Greek word G1788 (ἐντρέπω) carries a rich and dual semantic range, signifying both "to respect" or "reverence" and "to shame" or "confound." Rooted in the concept of "turning inward," its meaning is determined by context. In its positive sense, it describes the fitting deference and honor owed to divine and parental authority, the absence of which is a serious spiritual failing. In its negative sense, it refers to the act of causing someone to experience internal discomfort or humiliation, often for the redemptive purpose of correction, repentance, and restoration within the community of faith. Furthermore, the blameless conduct of believers can serve to shame opponents, affirming the truth and power of the Gospel. Thus, ἐντρέπω illuminates critical aspects of human response to God's authority, the nature of spiritual discipline, and the compelling witness of a life lived in accordance with divine truth.
TRV