Jump to: ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Concupiscence is a term used in Christian theology to describe the inclination or tendency of human beings to sin, particularly in relation to desires of the flesh. It is often associated with the concept of original sin and the fallen nature of humanity. The term itself is derived from the Latin "concupiscentia," which means strong desire or lust.Biblical References: The concept of concupiscence is rooted in several passages of Scripture, although the specific term is not always used. One of the key verses that addresses this inclination is found in the New Testament: · Romans 7:8 : "But sin, seizing its opportunity through the commandment, produced in me every kind of covetous desire. For apart from the law, sin is dead." In this passage, the Apostle Paul speaks of the law's role in revealing sin, which in turn stirs up covetous desires within the human heart. This aligns with the understanding of concupiscence as an internal struggle against sinful desires. · James 1:14-15 : "But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." James highlights the process by which evil desires, or concupiscence, lead to sin and ultimately to spiritual death. This underscores the seriousness of unchecked desires and the need for vigilance in the Christian life. Theological Context: In Christian theology, concupiscence is often discussed in the context of original sin. According to the doctrine of original sin, humanity inherited a sinful nature from Adam and Eve, which includes an inherent tendency toward sin. This inclination is not itself sin, but it predisposes individuals to sinful actions. Theologians such as Augustine of Hippo have extensively written on concupiscence, emphasizing its role in the human condition post-Fall. Augustine argued that concupiscence is a result of the disordered state of human desires due to the Fall, and it remains even after baptism, although its guilt is washed away. Moral and Spiritual Implications: Concupiscence presents a moral and spiritual challenge for believers. It requires constant vigilance and reliance on God's grace to overcome. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, urging believers to live by the Spirit to avoid fulfilling the desires of the flesh: · Galatians 5:16-17 : "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want." This passage highlights the ongoing battle between the flesh and the Spirit, a central theme in understanding concupiscence. Christians are called to live in the Spirit, which empowers them to resist sinful inclinations and grow in holiness. Practical Considerations: In practical terms, overcoming concupiscence involves spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, and the study of Scripture. Engaging in these practices helps believers align their desires with God's will and strengthens their ability to resist temptation. Furthermore, the sacrament of confession and the Eucharist are seen as means of grace that aid in the struggle against concupiscence. Through confession, believers receive forgiveness and grace to combat sinful tendencies, while the Eucharist provides spiritual nourishment and unity with Christ. In summary, concupiscence is a significant concept in Christian theology, reflecting the ongoing struggle against sinful desires inherent in human nature. It calls for a life of spiritual discipline and reliance on divine grace to achieve victory over sin. Easton's Bible Dictionary Desire, Romans 7:8 (R.V., "coveting"); Colossians 3:5 (R.V., "desire"). The "lust of concupiscence" (1 Thessalonians 4:5; R.V., "passion of lust") denotes evil desire, indwelling sin. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Sexual lust; morbid carnal passion.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CONCUPISCENCEkon-ku'-pi-sens (epithumia): Not used in the Revised Version (British and American), but in the King James Version, Romans 7:8 Colossians 3:5 1 Thessalonians 4:5. The Greek noun, like the verb from which it comes, meaning "to yearn," "to long," "to have the heart set upon a thing," is determined in its moral quality by the source whence it springs or the object toward which it is directed. Thus, our Lord uses it to express the intensest desire of His soul (Luke 22:15). As a rule, when the object is not expressed, it refers to longing for that which God has forbidden, namely, lust. It is not limited to sexual desire, but includes all going forth of heart and will toward what God would not have us to have or be, as its use in the Septuagint of the Ten Commandments clearly shows, for "Thou shalt not covet" (Exodus 20:17). Greek 1939. epithumia -- desire, passionate longing, lust ... passion, desire, lust. From epithumeo; a longing (especially for what is forbidden) -- concupiscence, desire, lust (after). see GREEK epithumeo. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1939.htm - 7k 3806. pathos -- that which befalls one, a passion, a suffering Library Whether Concupiscence is Infinite? Whether Concupiscence Causes Involuntariness? On Marriage and Concupiscence, Whether Concupiscence of the Flesh, Concupiscence of the Eyes, and ... Whether Concupiscence is a Specific Passion? Whether Original Sin is Concupiscence? Of Concupiscence (Four Articles) Whether Concupiscence is in the Sensitive Appetite Only? Of the Zeal of Concupiscence. Concupiscence, How Far in Us; the Baptized are not Injured by ... Thesaurus Concupiscence (3 Occurrences)... The "lust of concupiscence" (1 Thessalonians 4:5; RV, "passion of lust") denotes evil desire, indwelling sin. Noah Webster's Dictionary. ...CONCUPISCENCE. ... /c/concupiscence.htm - 8k Concubines (18 Occurrences) Lust (42 Occurrences) Inordinate (2 Occurrences) Mortify (2 Occurrences) Concur (1 Occurrence) Covet (14 Occurrences) Asmodaeus Fornication (52 Occurrences) Lewdness (68 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of concupiscence in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is mortification of sin / the flesh? | GotQuestions.org Sexual Sin ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Concupiscence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Concupiscence (3 Occurrences)Romans 7:8 Colossians 3:5 1 Thessalonians 4:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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