Lexical Summary aschémón: Unseemly, indecent, improper Original Word: ἀσχήμων Strong's Exhaustive Concordance uncomely. From a (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of echo (in the sense of its congener schema); properly, shapeless, i.e. (figuratively) inelegant -- uncomely. see GREEK a see GREEK echo see GREEK schema HELPS Word-studies 809 asxḗmōn (an adverb, derived from 1 /A "without" and 4976 /sxḗma, "external shape") – properly, lacking proper appeal (form), i.e. uncomely (unattractive); lacking respect because improper (not fitting, unpresentable, L-N, 79.16). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom alpha (as a neg. prefix) and schéma Definition shapeless, i.e. fig. unseemly NASB Translation presentable (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 809: ἀσχήμωνἀσχήμων, ἀσχημονος, neuter ἄσχημον (σχῆμα); a. deformed. b. indecent, unseemly: 1 Corinthians 12:23, opposed to εὐσχήμων. ((Herodotus), Xenophon, Plato, and subsequent writings.) ἀσχήμονα (aschēmona) denotes what is “unpresentable,” “indecorous,” or “unseemly.” It describes that which, by common moral sense and divinely revealed standard, ought to be discreetly covered or handled with particular modesty. Occurrence in the New Testament The adjective appears once, in 1 Corinthians 12:23, where Paul applies the term to certain bodily members that require “special modesty”. Within the larger argument, the apostle teaches that every believer holds indispensable value in the body of Christ, yet some callings or circumstances necessitate distinctive protection, privacy, or honor. Cultural and Historical Background 1. Greco-Roman ethos recognized parts of the human body that were to be veiled in public life. These norms overlapped with Hebrew concepts of nakedness and shame (Genesis 3:7, 21; Exodus 20:26; 28:42). Theological Significance 1. Equality and Honor within the Body – “God has composed the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it” (1 Corinthians 12:24). Divine design counters human hierarchies. The seeming weakness of certain members becomes the occasion for the display of grace. – Covering nakedness after the Fall demonstrated both shame and the promise of restoration. In Christ, modesty is not mere social convention but a testimony to the sanctity of the human person (1 Timothy 2:9–10; Revelation 3:18). – The Church is obligated to shelter “unpresentable” saints from exploitation or contempt, reflecting God’s care for those who cannot easily defend themselves (Proverbs 31:8–9; James 1:27). Practical Ministry Applications • Pastoral acknowledgment of behind-the-scenes servants, ensuring they receive gratitude and tangible support. Related Biblical Themes Decency (Romans 13:13); honor to the weak (Romans 15:1–2); covering shame (Isaiah 61:10); behaving without “unseemliness” (ἀσχημονεῖ, 1 Corinthians 13:5). Ministry Case Study A fellowship discovers that an elderly member quietly finances benevolence needs. Recognizing 1 Corinthians 12:23, the elders choose not to parade his generosity but do offer personal thanks and intercessory prayer, granting “greater honor” without public display. Summary Ἀσχήμονα reminds believers that modesty, honor, and protective love are woven into the very fabric of Christian community. What the world devalues, God clothes with glory, calling the Church to reflect His character by guarding and elevating every member, especially those deemed “unpresentable.” |
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