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G1505 · Greek · New Testament
εἰλικρίνεια
Eilikrineia
Noun, feminine
Sincerity, purity, integrity

Definition

The Greek noun eilikrineia means sincerity, genuineness, and moral purity — that which is unmixed with base motive or deception. The word may derive from eilē (sunlight) and krinō (to judge) — what is tested in full sunlight and found pure. It describes integrity that has nothing to hide.

Usage & Theological Significance

Paul uses eilikrineia in 1 Corinthians 5:8 and 2 Corinthians 1:12 and 2:17 to describe the authentic, unmixed motives that should characterize gospel ministry. The 'unleavened bread of sincerity and truth' contrasts with the corruption of malice and evil. In a world where religious performance often masks impure motives, eilikrineia — the transparent, sunlight-tested purity of genuine faith — marks the true servant of Christ.

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 5:8 Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity (eilikrineia) and truth.
2 Corinthians 1:12 For our boast is this, the testimony of our conscience, that we behaved in the world with simplicity and godly sincerity (eilikrineia), not by earthly wisdom.
2 Corinthians 2:17 For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.
Philippians 1:10 So that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.
1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation.

Related Words

External Resources

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