Semănătorul (The Sower)
September 2023, Volume 4, Number 1
THE CONCEPT, BASIS AND CALL TO GODLINESS IN THE PASTORAL EPISTLES
HAMILTON MOORE
ABSRTACT
This article will focus upon the concept of godliness in the Pastoral Epistles. The actual term eusebeia, “godliness,” is used ten times in the Letters, (1 Timothy 2:2; 3:16; 4:7, 8; 6:3, 5, 6, 11; 2 Timothy 3:5; Titus 1:1) Beyond these Epistles the word occurs only once in Acts 3:12 and four times in 2 Peter 1:3, 6, 7; 3:11. Related words, as the adjective eusebēs “devout” or “godly,” the adverb eusebōs “godly” and the verb eusebein “to worship” or “show godliness” are also found. Wherever these words occur there appears to be no significant difference in meaning. This article will seek to explore the concept eusebeia, noting how it was used in the Greco-Roman society and the Hellenistic Jewish community. Considering the main texts where the term occurs in the Pastoral Epistles, we will examine how Paul has then adapted this concept to define for Timothy and Titus the Christian’s new existence in Christ, based on his mission, an existence reflecting devotion to God and the consequent manner of life which follows, whether one is in leadership or otherwise.
KEY WORDS: The Greco-Roman environment, the Christ-event, ungodliness, the scope of the believer’s intercession, leadership and witness in Ephesus and Crete.