### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sébomai**, represented by `{{G4576}}`, conveys the concept of reverence and adoration. It appears 10 times in 10 unique verses. The term is defined as to revere or adore, and is translated as "devout," "religious," or "worship." It typically describes an attitude of piety or the act of worship itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4576}}` is used to identify individuals who revere God, particularly those who are not of Jewish descent but are drawn to the God of Israel. For example, Lydia is described as a woman "which worshipped God" [[Acts 16:14]], and Justus is called "one that worshipped God" [[Acts 18:7]]. The term also describes groups, such as the "religious proselytes" [[Acts 13:43]] and the "devout Greeks" [[Acts 17:4]] who responded to the apostles' teaching. However, the word is also used to warn against empty religious practice, stating that it is possible to "worship" in vain by following the commandments of men instead of God ([[Matthew 15:9]], [[Mark 7:7]]). It can even be used for pagan worship, as with those who worshipped the goddess Diana [[Acts 19:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G4576}}`:
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (to teach): This word is linked to the concept of vain worship. Worship becomes futile when it is based on **teaching** the commandments of men [[Mark 7:7]].
* `{{G1778}}` **éntalma** (commandment): This term defines the basis of worship. True worship is directed toward God, while vain worship is founded on the religious precepts, or **commandments**, of men [[Matthew 15:9]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (God): This is the primary object of true worship. Individuals like Lydia and Justus are identified by their reverence for **God** ([[Acts 16:14]], [[Acts 18:7]]).
* `{{G4339}}` **prosḗlytos** (proselyte): This term describes a convert to Judaism. It is used in conjunction with `{{G4576}}` to identify "religious **proselytes**," people who had formally joined the Jewish faith and were known for their piety [[Acts 13:43]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4576}}` is significant, particularly in the book of Acts.
* **The God-Fearers:** The term frequently identifies a specific group of Gentiles who, while not necessarily full proselytes, were devout and worshipped the God of Israel. These individuals, such as Lydia, Justus, and the "devout persons" in the synagogues, often proved to be the most receptive audience for the Gospel message ([[Acts 16:14]], [[Acts 17:17]]).
* **Vain vs. True Worship:** A crucial distinction is made between reverence for God and religious traditions based on human authority. Worship is rendered void when it consists of teaching human commandments as doctrine, demonstrating that the object and basis of worship are paramount [[Matthew 15:9]].
* **A Prerequisite for Faith:** The reverence described by `{{G4576}}` often represents a heart prepared to receive truth. The Lord opened Lydia's heart as she was in a posture of worship, allowing her to attend to the things spoken by Paul [[Acts 16:14]]. Similarly, devout proselytes were persuaded to continue in the grace of God [[Acts 13:43]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4576}}` is a focused term that describes a posture of reverence and adoration. It serves to identify a key group of Gentile "God-fearers" who were instrumental in the early church's expansion. Furthermore, it provides a vital theological contrast between worship that is sincere and directed at God, and worship that is empty because its foundation is in human precepts rather than divine truth.
TRV