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.
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.
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.
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.
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