The Greek word asébeia, represented by G763, defines impiety and by implication, wickedness. It appears 6 times in 6 unique verses in the Bible. This term signifies a state of being ungodly, which stands in direct opposition to reverence for God.
In scripture, G763 describes a condition that invites divine judgment and is contrary to a life of faith. The wrath G3709 of God is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness G93 of men Romans 1:18. Believers are specifically taught to deny G720 ungodliness and worldly G2886 lusts G1939 Titus 2:12. The term is also linked to corrupting influences, as profane G952 and vain babblings G2757 are said to increase unto more ungodliness 2 Timothy 2:16. Ultimately, the promised Deliverer will "turn away ungodliness from Jacob" Romans 11:26.
Several related words clarify the concept of ungodliness:
- G765 asebḗs (irreverent, i.e. (by extension) impious or wicked): The adjective form used to describe people who live in ungodliness. It is used to describe those who will face judgment for their ungodly deeds Jude 1:15.
- G764 asebéō (to be (by implied act) impious or wicked): The verb form, describing the action of committing ungodly deeds. It is used in Jude 1:15 to detail how the ungodly have "ungodly committed" their deeds.
- G93 adikía (wrongfulness (of character, life or act)): Often paired with ungodliness, this term describes the resulting injustice and unrighteousness that stems from impiety Romans 1:18.
- G1939 epithymía (a longing (especially for what is forbidden)): This word for lust or desire is often the driving force behind ungodliness. Scripture warns of mockers G1703 who walk after their own ungodly G763 lusts Jude 1:18.
The theological weight of G763 is significant, defining the nature of sin as a direct offense against God.
- Target of Divine Wrath: Ungodliness is presented as a primary reason for God's judgment. The wrath G3709 of God is explicitly revealed from heaven against it Romans 1:18.
- Contrast to Godly Living: The Christian life is framed by the act of denying G720 ungodliness and worldly G2886 lusts G1939, and instead living soberly G4996, righteously G1346, and godly G2153 Titus 2:12.
- Fruit of False Doctrine: The term is linked to the consequence of straying from truth. Profane G952 and vain babblings G2757 are not harmless but lead to an increase in ungodliness 2 Timothy 2:16.
- An Object of Redemption: The work of the Deliverer is characterized by His power to turn away ungodliness from His people, highlighting it as a condition from which humanity needs to be saved Romans 11:26.
In summary, G763 is not merely a label for general misconduct but a precise term for impiety and a state of being that is opposed to God. It is characterized by its connection to unrighteousness and forbidden lusts, its capacity to grow from false teaching, and its status as an object of God's wrath. The rejection of ungodliness is a central element of a sanctified life, and its ultimate removal is a key aspect of God's plan of redemption.
TRV