2 Corinthians 13:5d except ye be reprobates?

You will need to read yesterday’s blog to understand this in context. I left off this ending to this verse in yesterday’s closing quote. I did so because it is comments such as these that fear mongers latch onto and place too much emphasis upon. Fear mongers like to make a scathing accusation that all are in danger. A study of the Greek used here reveals a whole different meaning.

The Greek used for reprobates is actually two words with distinct meanings. The first is G5100 tis, which implies a certain one, some, sometime, or a while. Its use does not include all, accuse all, or even if one, not a lasting accusation, but perhaps a limited time. This would not be considered a permanent condition.

The second word is G96 adokimos which implies a counterfeit, used of metals or coins which are not approved. This when defined alone indicates a more permanent condition, a theft of sorts. This is where my use of rebate in the title comes into play.

Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

We invest time and effort in studying the Word to buy this gold. A rebate is a return on investment made. It is meant to receive back what you put in. We read commentaries, devotionals, study bibles, we listen to preachers and teachers, live and on video. We do all this and more to come to know Christ that much better than we did yesterday.

Fear mongers can only offer you a rebate that is counterfeit.