ACCURSED
What Does It Mean to Be Accursed in the Bible?
The word "accursed" (KJV) translates the Greek anathema four times in the New Testament. It carries the weighty idea of being "devoted to destruction," a term that should be approached with caution and understanding.
- In Romans 9:3, Paul's profound love for his people is evident as he expresses his willingness to be "cut off from Christ" if it could somehow have brought salvation to the Jews. This was a figure of speech known as hyperbole, an exaggeration for emphasis, but it underscores the apostle's deep affection for his people.
- Elsewhere, Paul contends that no one, speaking by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, could declare Jesus "accursed" (1 Cor. 12:3). The meaning of "accursed" here may be -- "deserving of death." This may reflect a charge being made about Christ by some at that time.
- Those who mingle the gospel of Christ with false doctrines will be eternally cut off from communion with God -- if they continue in such a godless course (Gal. 1:8-9).
- Anyone who refuses to "love the Lord" is destined to be banished from God's presence, hence devoted to destruction (1 Cor. 16:22). To love him in the fullest sense is to submit to his will to secure salvation (Jn. 14:15).
