Primary Study
Grafted Bible Dictionary
Definition
Lawlessness translates the Greek word anomia, built from nomos ("law") with a negative prefix.
Depending upon context it may refer to:
• lawlessness
• wickedness
• disregard for God's law
• rebellion
It should not automatically be reduced to one narrow technical definition in every passage.
Depending upon context it may refer to:
• lawlessness
• wickedness
• disregard for God's law
• rebellion
It should not automatically be reduced to one narrow technical definition in every passage.
Yeshua
The term appears prominently in Yeshua's teachings.
Matthew 7:23 states:
"Depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness."
Matthew 24:12 says:
"Because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold."
These passages portray lawlessness negatively.
Matthew 7:23 states:
"Depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness."
Matthew 24:12 says:
"Because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold."
These passages portray lawlessness negatively.
Apostolic Writings
John provides an important conceptual parallel:
"Sin is lawlessness."
— 1 John 3:4
Yeshua whose mission focuses especially on proclaiming the gospel among Gentiles.">Paul also uses anomia in discussions of sin and rebellion.
See:
• Romans 6:19
• 2 Corinthians 6:14
• 2 Thessalonians 2:3–8
• Titus 2:14
"Sin is lawlessness."
— 1 John 3:4
Yeshua whose mission focuses especially on proclaiming the gospel among Gentiles.">Paul also uses anomia in discussions of sin and rebellion.
See:
• Romans 6:19
• 2 Corinthians 6:14
• 2 Thessalonians 2:3–8
• Titus 2:14
Interpretive Question
Does anomia always mean direct violation of Mosaic Torah?
Not necessarily.
Greek usage can carry the broader meaning of wickedness or disregard for divine order.
However, because New Testament authors inherit their moral framework from Israel's Scriptures, Torah remains an important background for understanding what constitutes righteous and unrighteous behavior.
Not necessarily.
Greek usage can carry the broader meaning of wickedness or disregard for divine order.
However, because New Testament authors inherit their moral framework from Israel's Scriptures, Torah remains an important background for understanding what constitutes righteous and unrighteous behavior.
Common Misconception
Claim: Grace means lawlessness is no longer a meaningful category for believers.
Assessment: New Testament authors repeatedly condemn lawlessness after the death and resurrection of Messiah. Grace is presented as liberation from sin, not authorization for rebellion.
Assessment: New Testament authors repeatedly condemn lawlessness after the death and resurrection of Messiah. Grace is presented as liberation from sin, not authorization for rebellion.