The Greek word kólasis, represented by G2851, defines a penal infliction. Its base definition includes punishment and torment. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, highlighting its specific theological applications rather than general suffering.
In its biblical usage, G2851 is presented as a state of consequence. In Matthew, it describes the "everlasting punishment" that awaits the unrighteous, standing in direct contrast to the eternal life given to the righteous Matthew 25:46. The Apostle John uses the word to describe a spiritual state, explaining that "fear hath torment" 1 John 4:18. In this context, the torment of G2851 is what is cast out by perfect love, linking the term to an internal condition as well as a final judgment.
Several related words help clarify the context of G2851, particularly in its connection to fear:
- G5401 phóbos: from a primary (to be put in fear); alarm or fright:--be afraid, + exceedingly, fear, terror. This is the state that is said to contain torment 1 John 4:18. It is a condition from which believers are delivered Romans 8:15.
- G5399 phobéō: from φόβος; to frighten, i.e. (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. revere:--be (+ sore) afraid, fear (exceedingly), reverence. This verb describes the act of fearing. John notes that the one who "feareth" is not made perfect in love, connecting the action of fearing directly to the experience of torment 1 John 4:18.
- G906 bállō: a primary verb; to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense):--arise, cast (out), X dung, lay, lie, pour, put (up), send, strike, throw (down), thrust. Compare ῥίπτω. This verb describes the action taken against the fear that contains torment. Perfect love "casteth out" fear, thereby eliminating the associated torment 1 John 4:18.
The theological weight of G2851 is significant and focused on two areas:
- Eschatological Judgment: The word is used to define the final, "everlasting punishment" for the unrighteous, marking a definitive and eternal separation from God as a penal consequence Matthew 25:46.
- The Nature of Fear: G2851 is not merely a consequence of fear, but an intrinsic part of it. The statement "fear hath torment" suggests that fear, when separated from perfect love, is an experience of penal infliction in itself 1 John 4:18.
- The Power of Perfect Love: The concept of torment is presented as something that can be overcome. Perfect love actively "casteth out" the fear that holds this torment, indicating that for the believer, this state of penal infliction is not their present reality.
In summary, G2851 kólasis is a highly specific term for penal infliction. It is not used as a general word for suffering, but is applied in two key contexts: the eternal punishment resulting from divine judgment and the inherent torment that resides within fear. In both instances, scripture presents a contrast, positioning this punishment or torment opposite to the eternal life and perfect love that define the state of the righteous. The word's rare usage underscores its significant theological weight.
TRV