Definition and Meaning:
Ungodliness refers to a state of living or acting in a manner that is contrary to the nature, will, and commands of God. It encompasses behaviors, attitudes, and thoughts that are irreverent, sinful, and opposed to divine holiness and righteousness. The term is often used in the Bible to describe actions and lifestyles that reject God's authority and moral order.

Biblical References:
The concept of ungodliness is addressed throughout Scripture, highlighting the contrast between godly and ungodly living. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently warns against ungodliness, urging believers to live in a way that honors God.

· Romans 1:18 : "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the ungodliness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness." This verse underscores the seriousness with which God views ungodliness, associating it with His divine wrath and judgment.

· Titus 2:11-12 : "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age." Here, Paul emphasizes the transformative power of God's grace, which teaches believers to reject ungodliness and pursue a life that reflects God's character.

· 2 Timothy 3:1-5 : In this passage, Paul describes the perilous times of the last days, marked by widespread ungodliness: "But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. Turn away from such as these!"

Characteristics of Ungodliness:
Ungodliness is characterized by a rejection of God's sovereignty and a preference for self-centered living. It manifests in various forms, including:

· Moral Corruption: Engaging in behaviors that violate God's commandments, such as lying, stealing, and sexual immorality.
· Idolatry: Placing anything or anyone above God in one's life, whether it be material possessions, relationships, or personal ambitions.
· Pride and Arrogance: Elevating oneself above others and disregarding God's authority and wisdom.
· Disobedience: Willfully ignoring or defying God's instructions and guidance.

Consequences of Ungodliness:
The Bible warns of the dire consequences of living an ungodly life. Ungodliness leads to spiritual death, separation from God, and ultimately, divine judgment. Romans 6:23 states, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." This highlights the eternal ramifications of ungodliness, contrasting it with the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Call to Godliness:
Believers are called to reject ungodliness and pursue a life that reflects God's holiness. This involves a conscious effort to align one's thoughts, actions, and desires with God's will. The pursuit of godliness is empowered by the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to live in a manner that pleases God and bears witness to His transformative power.

· 1 Timothy 4:7-8 : "But reject irreverent, silly myths. Instead, train yourself for godliness. For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come."

Conclusion:
While ungodliness is a pervasive issue in the fallen world, the Bible offers hope and redemption through Jesus Christ. Believers are encouraged to turn away from ungodliness and embrace a life of godliness, empowered by God's grace and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

And Thou Knowest How Far Thou Hast Already Changed Me...
... But when"not the sinner is praised in the desires of his soul, nor he blessed who
doth ungodlily, but"a man is praised for some gift which Thou hast given ...
/.../augustine/the confessions of saint augustine/chapter xxxvi and thou knowest.htm

The Great Preparatives for the Saints' Rest.
... his saints, to execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among
them, of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodlily committed, and ...
/.../baxter/the saints everlasting rest/chapter ii the great preparatives.htm

A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus ...
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a defence of the doctrine.htm

Ungodlily (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ungodlily (1 Occurrence). Jude 1:15 to execute
judgment against all; and to convict all the ungodly of ...
/u/ungodlily.htm - 6k

Ungodliness (9 Occurrences)

/u/ungodliness.htm - 9k

Ungirded (1 Occurrence)

/u/ungirded.htm - 6k

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