GospelMount
Search Topics Scripture Prayer Resources Ebooks About Support the mission Saved articles

νομίμως (nomimōs)

nomimōs

lawfully

G3545 · Greek · New Testament · 2 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
2 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The adverb nomimōs means to act in a way that is lawful, right, or proper according to established rules. It appears only twice in the New Testament, both within the Pastoral Epistles, where it modifies how believers should engage with spiritual disciplines and duties.

In 1 Timothy 1:8, Paul uses the word to affirm that the law itself is good when used correctly, implying a proper alignment with its intent rather than a misuse of legalism. Similarly, in 2 Timothy 2:5, it describes an athlete who competes according to the official rules, suggesting that spiritual effort must follow the prescribed path to be valid.

The term derives from a root related to law and custom, emphasizing conduct that is not just permitted but done in the right manner. It highlights that validity in Christian practice depends on adherence to divine standards, ensuring that actions are both legitimate and faithful to their intended purpose.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word nomimōs reminds us that faithfulness is not about improvising our own standards but aligning with God’s design. In 1 Timothy 1:8, Paul notes that the law is good when used lawfully. This means we do not discard moral guidance but engage it with wisdom and respect for its original purpose.

Similarly, 2 Timothy 2:5 compares spiritual life to an athletic contest where victory requires following the rules. God’s commands are not burdensome restrictions but the very framework that allows us to run well. When we seek to live lawfully, we honor the Creator who set these boundaries for our good and flourishing.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • lawfully2×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • νομίμως2×

Key Verses

  • I Timothy 1:8
    But we know that the law is good if a person uses it lawfully,

    Paul uses this term to clarify that the law remains beneficial when applied with proper understanding rather than distortion.

  • II Timothy 2:5
    Also, if anyone competes in athletics, he isn’t crowned unless he has competed by the rules.

    The adverb qualifies the athlete's conduct, showing that spiritual effort must adhere to divine standards to be valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Greek word nomimōs mean?

It is an adverb meaning 'lawfully' or 'in a lawful manner.' It describes actions that are conducted in accordance with established rules or divine standards, ensuring they are proper and legitimate.

Why does Paul use this word only twice?

The term appears exclusively in the Pastoral Epistles (1 Timothy 1:8 and 2 Timothy 2:5). Paul uses it to address specific concerns about how believers should relate to moral law and spiritual discipline, emphasizing order and correctness over chaos or misuse.

How does living nomimōs affect my daily faith?

It encourages a life of integrity where our actions align with God’s will. Like an athlete following competition rules, we find that adhering to spiritual boundaries helps us run the race well and receive the crown of righteousness.

Every Occurrence (2 verses across 2 books)

I Timothy 1 verse
I Timothy 1:8

But we know that the law is good if a person uses it lawfully,

II Timothy 1 verse