### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epaischýnomai**, represented by `{{G1870}}`, means **to feel shame for something**. It appears 21 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible, often highlighting a crucial choice between allegiance to God and fear of worldly opinion. The term is a compound, built from ἐπί and αἰσχύνομαι, and conveys a deep sense of being ashamed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1870}}` is used to contrast worldly shame with divine power and acceptance. Paul declares he is not **ashamed** of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation [[Romans 1:16]]. Jesus warns that he will be **ashamed** of anyone who is **ashamed** of him and his words in an "adulterous and sinful generation" ([[Mark 8:38]], [[Luke 9:26]]). Conversely, the word is used to express divine affirmation; God is not **ashamed** to be called the God of the faithful [[Hebrews 11:16]], and Jesus is not **ashamed** to call the sanctified his brethren [[Hebrews 2:11]]. This concept is also applied personally, as Paul commends Onesiphorus, who "was not **ashamed** of my chain" [[2 Timothy 1:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the concept of being unashamed:
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power): The reason not to be ashamed of the gospel is its divine **power**. Paul states it is the **power** of God for salvation [[Romans 1:16]] and encourages Timothy to partake in afflictions according to the **power** of God [[2 Timothy 1:8]].
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory): The consequence of being ashamed of Christ is being rejected when He returns in His Father's **glory** ([[Mark 8:38]], [[Luke 9:26]]). This word for **glory** highlights the ultimate, apparent honor that far outweighs any temporary shame.
* `{{G1198}}` **désmios** (prisoner): Paul directly links being unashamed with his status as a **prisoner** for Christ. He urges Timothy not to be ashamed of him, the Lord's **prisoner** [[2 Timothy 1:8]], setting a standard for loyalty that defies social disgrace.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1870}}` is significant, centering on the believer's public allegiance and God's corresponding acceptance.
* **Identification with the Gospel:** To be unashamed is to fully identify with the gospel message, recognizing it not as a source of disgrace, but as the very **power** `{{G1411}}` of God for **salvation** `{{G4991}}` [[Romans 1:16]].
* **Allegiance to Christ:** A core theme is the reciprocal nature of allegiance. Those who are **ashamed** of Christ before men will find Christ is **ashamed** of them before the Father [[Mark 8:38]]. This frames faith as a public and unwavering commitment.
* **Divine Acceptance:** The word is powerfully reversed when applied to God. God is not **ashamed** to be the God of those who desire the **heavenly** `{{G2032}}` city He has prepared [[Hebrews 11:16]]. Likewise, Jesus is not **ashamed** to call the sanctified His **brethren** `{{G80}}` [[Hebrews 2:11]], showing that faithfulness in the face of shame is met with divine honor and kinship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1870}}` defines a critical aspect of discipleship. It moves beyond a mere feeling to an act of loyalty and public identification with Christ, His message, and His people, regardless of potential disgrace or suffering. The use of this word illustrates that while the world may offer reasons to feel shame, the gospel offers the power, glory, and ultimate acceptance of God, who is never ashamed of His own.
TRV