The term "unapproved" in a biblical context often refers to actions, behaviors, or teachings that do not align with the standards set forth by Scripture. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that help believers discern what is approved by God and what is not.

Scriptural References

1. 2 Timothy 2:15 · "Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth." This verse highlights the importance of being diligent in one's study and application of Scripture to be approved by God. The implication is that there are ways of handling the Word that are unapproved, leading to shame and error.

2. Romans 1:28 · "Furthermore, since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, He gave them up to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done." Here, the apostle Paul describes those who are unapproved in their thinking and actions because they have rejected God. Their unapproved status is a result of their refusal to acknowledge Him.

3. 1 Corinthians 11:19 · "And indeed, there must be differences among you to show which of you are approved." This passage suggests that divisions and differences can reveal those who are approved by God, implying that others are unapproved due to their actions or beliefs.

Characteristics of the Unapproved

· Deviation from Sound Doctrine: Those who teach or follow doctrines that are contrary to the core teachings of the Bible are considered unapproved. The apostle Paul warns against false teachers and doctrines in several of his epistles (e.g., Galatians 1:6-9).

· Immoral Behavior: The Bible frequently associates unapproved status with immoral behavior. In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul lists the "acts of the flesh" and warns that those who live in such a manner will not inherit the kingdom of God.

· Lack of Faith: Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God." A lack of faith is a key characteristic of those who are unapproved, as faith is essential to a relationship with God.

Consequences of Being Unapproved

· Separation from God: Isaiah 59:2 declares, "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear." Sin and unapproved actions create a barrier between individuals and God.

· Judgment: The Bible warns of judgment for those who are unapproved. In Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus speaks of those who will claim to know Him but will be turned away because their actions were not in accordance with God's will.

· Loss of Reward: In 1 Corinthians 3:13-15, Paul speaks of each person's work being tested by fire. Those whose work is unapproved will suffer loss, though they themselves may be saved.

Path to Approval

· Repentance and Faith: The path from being unapproved to approved begins with repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Acts 3:19 calls for repentance so that sins may be wiped out.

· Obedience to God's Word: James 1:22 encourages believers to be doers of the Word, not merely hearers. Obedience is a mark of those who are approved by God.

· Spiritual Growth: 2 Peter 1:5-8 outlines qualities such as goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love, which should be increasing in the life of a believer, marking them as approved.

In summary, the concept of being unapproved in the Bible is closely tied to one's relationship with God, adherence to His Word, and the moral and doctrinal choices one makes. The Scriptures provide guidance for moving from a state of being unapproved to one of approval through faith, repentance, and obedience.1. (a.) Not approved.

2. (a.) Not proved.

96. adokimos -- Admin, an Israelite
... adokimos Phonetic Spelling: (ad-ok'-ee-mos) Short Definition: failing to pass the
test Definition: failing to pass the test, unapproved, counterfeit. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/96.htm - 6k

96b. adokimos -- not standing the test, rejected
... dokimos Definition not standing the test, rejected NASB Word Usage depraved (1),
disqualified (1), fail the test (2), rejected (1), unapproved (1), worthless (2 ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/96b.htm - 5k

Acts xvi. 13, 14
... luxury. For the man untried, as the saying is, is also unapproved; unapproved
not only in the contests, but also in everything else. ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxxv acts xvi 13.htm

The Complaint: Or, Night Thoughts.
... How dreadful, then, to meet them all alone,. A stranger! unacknowledged,
unapproved! Now woo them, wed them, bind them to thy breast; ...
/.../young/youngs night thoughts/the complaint or night thoughts.htm

Unapproved (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (a.) Not approved. 2. (a.) Not proved.
Multi-Version Concordance Unapproved (1 Occurrence). 2 Corinthians ...
/u/unapproved.htm - 6k

Unarmed (1 Occurrence)

/u/unarmed.htm - 7k

Unapproachable (1 Occurrence)

/u/unapproachable.htm - 6k

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