Topical Encyclopedia The term "lawless" in the Bible refers to individuals or actions that are in defiance of God's laws and commandments. It is often associated with sin, rebellion, and a rejection of divine authority. The concept of lawlessness is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the moral and spiritual decay that results from turning away from God's established order.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, lawlessness is frequently linked to the failure to adhere to the Mosaic Law, which was given to the Israelites as a covenantal guide for righteous living. The Hebrew word often translated as "lawless" is "pasha," which conveys the idea of transgression or rebellion. For example, in Isaiah 1:4, the prophet laments, "Woe to a sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a brood of evildoers, children who deal corruptly! They have forsaken the LORD; they have despised the Holy One of Israel; they are utterly estranged." The lawlessness of Israel often led to divine judgment, as seen in the Babylonian exile, which was a direct consequence of the nation's persistent disobedience and idolatry. The prophets repeatedly called the people to repentance, urging them to return to the covenant and live according to God's statutes. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "anomia" is commonly used to describe lawlessness. It signifies a state of being without law or in violation of the law. Jesus Himself warned against lawlessness in His teachings. In Matthew 7:23, He declares, "Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’" This passage underscores the seriousness of lawlessness as a barrier to entering the kingdom of heaven. The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of lawlessness, particularly in relation to the end times. In 2 Thessalonians 2:7, he writes, "For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work, but the one who now restrains it will continue until he is taken out of the way." Here, Paul speaks of a future period characterized by increased rebellion against God, culminating in the rise of the "man of lawlessness," often interpreted as the Antichrist. Moral and Spiritual Implications Lawlessness is not merely a legal or societal issue but a profound spiritual problem. It reflects a heart that is hardened against God and His righteous standards. In 1 John 3:4, the apostle states, "Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness as well. Indeed, sin is lawlessness." This verse equates sin with lawlessness, emphasizing that any deviation from God's will is an act of rebellion. The Bible calls believers to live in contrast to lawlessness by adhering to God's commandments and walking in the Spirit. Romans 6:19 encourages Christians to present themselves as "slaves to righteousness leading to holiness," highlighting the transformative power of grace that enables believers to overcome lawlessness. Eschatological Significance The theme of lawlessness is also significant in eschatological discussions. Jesus, in His Olivet Discourse, warns that "because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold" (Matthew 24:12). This prediction points to a future time when lawlessness will increase, testing the faith and endurance of believers. Ultimately, the Bible assures that lawlessness will be judged and eradicated. In Matthew 13:41, Jesus promises that "The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will weed out of His kingdom every cause of sin and all who practice lawlessness." This final judgment will restore divine order and righteousness, fulfilling God's redemptive plan for creation. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Contrary to, or unauthorized by, law; illegal; as, a lawless claim.2. (a.) Not subject to, or restrained by, the law of morality or of society; as, lawless men or behavior. 3. (a.) Not subject to the laws of nature; uncontrolled. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia LAWLESSlo'-les (anomos): While occurring but once in the King James Version (1 Timothy 1:9), is translated in various ways, e.g. "without law" (1 Corinthians 9:21); "unlawful" (2 Peter 2:8 the King James Version); "lawless" (1 Timothy 1:9); "transgressor" (Mark 15:28 Luke 22:37); "wicked" (Acts 2:23 the King James Version; 2 Thessalonians 2:8 the King James Version). When Paul claims to be "without law," he has reference to those things in the ceremonial law which might well be passed over, and not to the moral law. Paul was by no means an antinomian. Those are "lawless" who break the law of the Decalogue; hence, those who disobey the commandment, "Honor thy father and thy mother," are lawless (1 Timothy 1:9). The civil law is also the law of God. Those breaking it are lawless, hence, called "transgressors." Those who are unjust in their dealings are also "lawless"; for this reason the hands of Pilate and those who with him unjustly condemned Jesus are called "wicked (unlawful) hands" (Acts 2:23 the King James Version). The most notable example of lawlessness is the Antichrist, that "wicked (lawless) one" (2 Thessalonians 2:8). Greek 459. anomos -- lawless, without law ... lawless, without law. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: anomos Phonetic Spelling: (an'-om-os) Short Definition: lawless, sinful, illegal Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/459.htm - 7k 113. athesmos -- lawless 111. athemitos -- lawless 458. anomia -- lawlessness 766. aselgeia -- licentiousness, wantonness Library The Lawless One The Lawless Conduct and Covetousness of Licinius. And at First, Indeed, that Deceitful and Lawless One... But what Life Wouldst Thou Lead? and by what Laws Wouldst Thou ... If the Members Rise, must they Discharge the Same Functions as Now ... 2 Thessalonians ii. 9-Jun Rom. I. 26, 27 Home-Government. The Historical and Spiritual Causes of the Death of Christ 1 Timothy i. 7-May Thesaurus Lawless (16 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (a.) Contrary to, or unauthorized by, law; illegal; as, a lawless claim. ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. LAWLESS. ... /l/lawless.htm - 12k Godless (31 Occurrences) Appearing (20 Occurrences) Slay (189 Occurrences) Antichrist (4 Occurrences) Man (26072 Occurrences) Lawlessness (13 Occurrences) Sin (782 Occurrences) Ones (687 Occurrences) Deeds (309 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about lawlessness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that sin is lawlessness? | GotQuestions.org What is the mystery of iniquity? | GotQuestions.org Lawless: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lawless (16 Occurrences)Mark 15:28 Luke 22:37 Acts 2:23 Romans 4:7 2 Thessalonians 2:8 2 Thessalonians 2:9 1 Timothy 1:9 Titus 2:14 Hebrews 8:12 Hebrews 10:17 1 Peter 4:3 2 Peter 2:7 2 Peter 2:8 2 Peter 3:17 2 Samuel 3:33 2 Chronicles 28:19 Subtopics Related Terms |