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G181 · Greek · New Testament
ἀκαταστασία
akatastasia
Noun, feminine
disorder, confusion, instability

Definition

Akatastasia (G181) is disorder or unstable chaos — the absence of settled arrangement (katastasis). Paul contrasts it with peace: 'God is not a God of confusion [akatastasias] but of peace' (1 Corinthians 14:33). James says wherever jealousy and selfish ambition are found, there is disorder (akatastasia) and every vile practice.

Usage & Theological Significance

The NT's use of akatastasia reveals a theology of order rooted in God's character. Divine worship, church life, and human relationships are to reflect God's ordered, peaceable nature. Chaos is a sign of where the flesh or demonic is operating. The eschatological vision of the new creation is shalom — perfect ordered peace, the opposite of akatastasia.

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not a God of confusion [akatastasias] but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints...
James 3:16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder [akatastasia] and every vile practice.
Luke 21:9 And when you hear of wars and tumults [akatastasias], do not be terrified, for these things must first take place.
2 Corinthians 6:5 in beatings, imprisonments, riots [akatastasiais], labors, sleepless nights, hunger...
2 Corinthians 12:20 For I fear that perhaps when I come I may find you not as I wish... there may be quarreling, jealousy, anger, hostility, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder.

Related Words

External Resources

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