### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bióō**, represented by `{{G980}}`, means to **spend existence** or to **live**. Derived from βίος, it appears 2 times across 1 unique verse in the Bible. This specific term emphasizes the manner and purpose for which one's life is conducted.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G980}}` in scripture establishes a clear and profound contrast between two opposing ways of life. It is found in the instruction that a believer should **no longer** `{{G3371}}` **live** `{{G980}}` the **rest** `{{G1954}}` of his **time** `{{G5550}}` **in** `{{G1722}}` the **flesh** `{{G4561}}` according to the **lusts** `{{G1939}}` of **men** `{{G444}}`. Instead, life is to be lived according to the **will** `{{G2307}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}`, marking a fundamental change in a person's existence [[1 Peter 4:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the distinction between the old and new ways of living:
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This refers to human nature with its frailties and passions. The call is to no longer be governed by the **flesh**, even while living in a physical body [[Galatians 5:16]].
* `{{G1939}}` **epithymía** (lusts): Defined as a longing, especially for what is forbidden. A believer's life is to be redirected away from these worldly **lusts** and desires [[1 John 2:16]].
* `{{G2307}}` **thélēma** (will): This signifies a determination, choice, or purpose. The transformed life is defined by a new purpose: actively pursuing the **will** of God [[Romans 12:2]].
* `{{G3371}}` **mēkéti** (no longer): This word signals a decisive termination. It is used to command an end to a former state, such as serving sin, emphasizing that believers should henceforth walk in a new way [[Romans 6:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G980}}` is centered on the concept of a transformed existence in Christ.
* **A New Purpose:** To **live** `{{G980}}` is to have a new guiding principle. The believer's life is no longer directed by human desires but by the divine **will** `{{G2307}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}`, which is described as good, acceptable, and perfect [[Romans 12:2]].
* **Redirection of Life:** The term is used in the context of ending a previous lifestyle. Life is no longer spent serving the **lusts** `{{G1939}}` of the **flesh** `{{G4561}}`, but is instead offered to God [[1 Peter 4:2]].
* **The Conflict of Two Wills:** The use of **bióō** highlights the contrast between the **lusts** of **men** `{{G444}}` and the **will** of **God** `{{G2316}}`. This choice defines the believer's journey of sanctification [[1 Thessalonians 4:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G980}}` **bióō** is a potent term that encapsulates the radical reorientation of a believer's life. While it simply means "to live," its biblical context reveals a deeper meaning: a decisive shift away from an existence defined by the passions of the **flesh** `{{G4561}}` and toward a life purposefully spent in accordance with the **will** `{{G2307}}` of God. It defines Christian living not as mere existence, but as existence with a divine purpose.
TRV