### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lýkos**, represented by `{{G3074}}`, is the term for a **wolf**. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, it consistently represents a predatory and dangerous element, specifically those who threaten the people of God from within or without.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3074}}` is used metaphorically to describe dangerous individuals who prey on the faithful. Jesus warns his followers to "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening **wolves**" [[Matthew 7:15]]. This imagery of vulnerability is further used when Christ sends out his disciples "as sheep in the midst of **wolves**" [[Matthew 10:16]] and as "lambs among **wolves**" [[Luke 10:3]]. The destructive nature of the **wolf** is detailed in John, where it "catcheth" and "scattereth the sheep" [[John 10:12]]. Paul also uses this term to warn the Ephesian elders that after his departure, "grievous **wolves**" would enter and not spare the flock [[Acts 20:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which the **wolf** appears:
* `{{G5578}}` **pseudoprophḗtēs** (a spurious prophet, i.e. pretended foreteller or religious impostor): These are directly identified as the **wolves** who disguise themselves in sheep's clothing to deceive the flock [[Matthew 7:15]].
* `{{G4263}}` **próbaton** (something that walks forward (a quadruped), i.e. (specially), a sheep): This word represents the vulnerable believers who are the primary target of the **wolf** ([[Matthew 10:16]], [[John 10:12]]).
* `{{G3411}}` **misthōtós** (a wage-worker (good or bad):--hired servant, hireling): This describes a leader who, unlike a true shepherd, is not invested in the flock and **fleeth** when he sees the **wolf** coming [[John 10:12]].
* `{{G4168}}` **poímnion** (a flock, i.e. (figuratively) group (of believers):--flock): This represents the community of believers that "grievous **wolves**" seek to infiltrate and harm [[Acts 20:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3074}}` is significant, symbolizing the active threats to the church.
* **Internal Deception:** The **wolf** primarily illustrates the danger of false teachers arising from within the community. These are described as "ravening" `{{G727}}` and "grievous" `{{G926}}`, emphasizing their destructive intent hidden by a harmless exterior ([[Matthew 7:15]], [[Acts 20:29]]).
* **Test of Faithfulness:** The presence of a **wolf** serves as a test for both leaders and the flock. It distinguishes the true **shepherd** `{{G4166}}` from the **hireling** `{{G3411}}` who abandons the sheep at the first sign of danger [[John 10:12]].
* **Hostile Environment:** Sending disciples as **sheep** `{{G4263}}` or **lambs** `{{G704}}` among **wolves** highlights the hostile, predatory nature of the world and the spiritual peril that believers must navigate ([[Matthew 10:16]], [[Luke 10:3]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3074}}` is a powerful biblical symbol for a predator who seeks to harm and scatter God's people. It serves as a stark warning against deceptive teachers and unfaithful leaders, while also underscoring the vulnerability of the flock and their need for a true shepherd's protection. The term moves beyond a simple animal to represent a key spiritual adversary to the church.
TRV