### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **atáktōs**, represented by `{{G814}}`, is an adverb derived from ἄτακτος. It is defined as **irregularly (morally):--disorderly**. This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, focusing on behavior that deviates from established order and instruction within the Christian community.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G814}}` is found exclusively in 2 Thessalonians, where it addresses a specific issue within the church. Paul commands the brethren to withdraw from any brother who "walketh **disorderly**" [[2 Thessalonians 3:6]]. This behavior is explicitly defined as not following the "tradition" the church had received from the apostles. The term is clarified further when Paul notes that some "walk among you **disorderly**, working not at all, but are busybodies" [[2 Thessalonians 3:11]]. The context firmly links disorderly conduct with idleness and meddling.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context surrounding `{{G814}}`:
* `{{G4043}}` **peripatéō** (to tread all around, i.e. walk at large... figuratively, to live, deport oneself): This word describes the lifestyle or conduct being assessed. The disorderly behavior is a manner of "walking" that is out of step with apostolic teaching [[2 Thessalonians 3:6]].
* `{{G2038}}` **ergázomai** (to toil... work): This is central to the problem. The disorderly are defined by their refusal to work, as they are "working not at all" [[2 Thessalonians 3:11]].
* `{{G4020}}` **periergázomai** (to work all around, i.e. bustle about (meddle):--be a busybody): This term describes the negative outcome of idleness. Those who walk disorderly are not merely inactive; they become "busybodies" [[2 Thessalonians 3:11]].
* `{{G4724}}` **stéllō** (to repress (reflexively, abstain from associating with):--avoid, withdraw self): This is the prescribed response to disorderly conduct. Believers are commanded to "withdraw" themselves from those who behave this way [[2 Thessalonians 3:6]].
* `{{G3853}}` **parangéllō** (to transmit a message, i.e. (by implication) to enjoin:--(give in) charge, (give) command(-ment), declare): This highlights the authority behind the instruction. The call to address disorderly members is a direct "command" [[2 Thessalonians 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G814}}` lies in its implications for church discipline and Christian ethics.
* **Community Accountability:** The command to withdraw from a brother walking disorderly establishes that personal conduct has communal consequences. It underscores the church's responsibility to maintain a standard of behavior based on apostolic "tradition" `{{G3862}}` [[2 Thessalonians 3:6]].
* **The Ethic of Work:** Disorderliness is directly equated with a refusal to work. This frames diligent labor not merely as a social expectation but as a component of an orderly Christian life, while idleness leads to disruptive behavior like being a "busybodies" `{{G4020}}` [[2 Thessalonians 3:11]].
* **Apostolic Authority:** The behavior is condemned because it deviates from the "tradition" delivered by the apostles. This reinforces the principle that Christian living is not self-determined but is to be patterned after the teachings passed down through authoritative, godly instruction.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G814}}` is a pointed term that signifies more than general unruliness. It specifically denotes a lifestyle that is morally irregular because it rejects the apostolic tradition regarding work and personal responsibility. This disorderly conduct, characterized by idleness and meddlesome behavior, was considered a serious threat to the health of the church, warranting a direct command for believers to withdraw from those who persisted in it. The word illustrates how practical matters like a person's work ethic are directly tied to their spiritual walk and their place within the community of faith.
TRV