The Greek word theosébeia, represented by G2317, defines devoutness or piety. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant. The term conveys the concept of godliness, a reverence for God that is demonstrated outwardly.
The sole biblical appearance of G2317 is in 1 Timothy 2:10, which states that it is fitting for women "professing godliness" to adorn themselves with "good works." This context directly links the internal quality of piety with its external, tangible expression. Godliness is not merely a claimed status but a virtue that is visibly demonstrated through one's actions and conduct.
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify the meaning of G2317:
- G1861 epangéllō (to announce upon... to assert something respecting oneself:--profess, (make) promise): This word, translated as "professing" in 1 Timothy 2:10, highlights that godliness is a commitment one asserts or claims. This same word is used for God, who "promised" eternal life before the world began Titus 1:2.
- G18 agathós (a primary word; "good"): This term describes the quality of the works that should accompany godliness. The Bible presents "good" as being aligned with God's will Romans 12:2 and originating from Him, as every "good" gift comes from the Father James 1:17.
- G2041 érgon (toil... an act:--deed, doing, labour, work): This refers to the actual deeds or actions that are the evidence of godliness. These are not random acts, but are part of a divine purpose, as believers are created in Christ Jesus for "good works, which God hath before ordained" Ephesians 2:10.
The theological weight of G2317 is established by its singular, powerful context.
- Visible Piety: The primary lesson from 1 Timothy 2:10 is that true godliness is inseparable from its practical outworking. A profession of faith is expected to be accompanied by corresponding good deeds.
- Divinely Defined Works: The "good works" that express godliness are not defined by human standards but are connected to God's nature and purpose. They are the "good" works that God has ordained for believers to walk in Ephesians 2:10 and which reflect His "good, and acceptable, and perfect, will" Romans 12:2.
- Asserted Identity: Godliness is something that is "professed" G1861, indicating a conscious alignment with God. This assertion is then validated by a life that produces good works, much like God's own faithfulness is shown in His ability to perform what He has promised Romans 4:21.
In summary, G2317 theosébeia is a concise and potent term for godliness. Though used only once, its context in 1 Timothy 2:10 establishes a vital theological principle: genuine piety is demonstrated, not just declared. It links an internal state of devoutness to the external evidence of good works, which themselves are presented as being ordained by and aligned with the will of God.
TRV