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G888 · Greek · New Testament
ἀχρεῖος
achreios
Adjective
worthless; unprofitable; unworthy

Definition

Achreios (ἀχρεῖος) combines a (not) and chreios (useful). It means "worthless, unprofitable, unserviceable." It appears twice: Matthew 25:30 (the wicked servant cast out) and Luke 17:10 (faithful servants calling themselves "unworthy servants").

Usage & Theological Significance

The two NT uses create profound tension. In Matthew 25:30, the servant who buried his talent is called achreiosworthless, cast out. In Luke 17:10, faithful servants who did everything commanded call themselves achreiosunworthy. The first warns against unfaithful passivity; the second models humble service without entitlement. Even maximally faithful Christians owe God everything and can claim no merit. Salvation and reward flow entirely from God's grace — not from achieving "useful" status (Romans 3:12).

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 25:30 Throw that worthless [achreion] servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Luke 17:10 We are unworthy [achreios] servants; we have only done our duty.
Romans 3:12 All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good.
Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.
1 Corinthians 4:7 What do you have that you did not receive?

Related Words

External Resources

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