The Greek word syschēmatízō, represented by G4964, means to fashion alike or conform to the same pattern. Drawn from roots meaning "to fashion with," it appears 3 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. It carries the figurative meaning of conforming oneself to an external mold or pattern, particularly in behavior and mindset.
In its biblical occurrences, G4964 is used as a direct negative command to believers. In Romans 12:2, believers are instructed to "be not conformed to this world" G165. This is immediately contrasted with the call to be "transformed" G3339 by the renewing of the mind. Similarly, 1 Peter 1:14 commands believers, as "obedient children" G5218 G5043, to be found "not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts" G1939 that belonged to their time of "ignorance" G52.
Several related words help clarify the patterns believers are called to avoid and the new life they are to embrace:
- G3339 metamorphóō (to transform (literally or figuratively, "metamorphose")): This is presented as the divine alternative to being conformed. In Romans 12:2, instead of being shaped by the world, a believer is to be internally transformed.
- G165 aiṓn (properly, an age; by extension, the world): This term defines the external system that believers are commanded not to be conformed to. It represents the present age with its priorities and way of thinking Romans 12:2.
- G1939 epithymía (a longing (especially for what is forbidden)): These "former lusts" are the old patterns that believers must no longer fashion their lives after. In 1 Peter 1:14, they are linked to a past life of spiritual ignorance.
- G52 ágnoia (ignorance (properly, the quality)): This describes the state in which the "former lusts" G1939 operated. The command in 1 Peter 1:14 suggests that new life in Christ removes the basis for being fashioned by these old desires.
The theological weight of G4964 is significant, establishing a core principle of the Christian life.
- A Call to Distinction: The command is an explicit call to live a life distinct from the prevailing patterns of the "world" G165 and the old self. It forbids passively adopting the ethics and desires of a system opposed to God.
- The Path to Discerning God's Will: According to Romans 12:2, non-conformity is a prerequisite for spiritual transformation. Only by resisting the world's mold and being transformed by a renewed mind G3563 can a believer "prove what is that good G18, and acceptable G2101, and perfect G5046, will G2307 of God G2316."
- Identity Dictates Behavior: 1 Peter 1:14 connects the command directly to a believer's new identity. As "obedient children" G5218 G5043, their behavior should no longer be shaped by past lusts but by their new relationship with God.
In summary, G4964 is more than a simple command against imitation. It defines a crucial aspect of sanctification, demanding a decisive break from the external patterns of the world and the internal patterns of the "former lusts." By not being conformed, the believer is positioned to undergo a genuine inner transformation, enabling them to understand and live out the will of God.
TRV