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G2889 · Greek · New Testament
κόσμος
kosmos
Noun, masculine
world, universe, order

Definition

The world as an ordered system — the universe, the earth, humanity collectively, or the present world-system opposed to God. Kosmos originally meant 'order' or 'adornment' (hence 'cosmetic'). In the NT it carries a complex range: God loved the kosmos (John 3:16) yet believers are warned not to love it (1 John 2:15).

Usage & Theological Significance

The tension around kosmos is intentional. God created the world and loves it, yet 'the whole world lies in the power of the evil one' (1 John 5:19). Christ came not to condemn the world but to save it (John 3:17), yet He says 'My kingdom is not of this world' (John 18:36). Believers live in the world but are not of it (John 17:14-16). The kosmos is simultaneously God's beloved creation and a system in rebellion.

Key Bible Verses

John 3:16 God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.
1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or anything in the world.
John 17:16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.
John 1:10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.
Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world.

Related Words

External Resources

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