Anathema (Rejected by God)

Anathema (Rejected by God)

Meaning
Anathema refers to any person, thing or process which is completely and utterly rejected by God. The word comes from the New Testament and it’s derived from the Greek “ana’thema” which means destined for damnation. This word is almost exclusively reserved for anyone who rejects Christ Jesus our Lord.

However the same thing can be said about any system of works, where salvation does not come exclusively by faith in Christ alone. Generally speaking, most Bible scholars agree that the word anathema is best understood to mean that which is to be accursed, condemned, or destroyed. When the Lord says something is “anathema,” it is a serious matter because that means it is completely rejected by God and destined for destruction or eternity in Hell.

“If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be accursed [anathema]. O Lord, come.” (Book of 1st Corinthians 16:22)

“But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed [anathema]. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed [anathema].” (Book of Galatians 1:8-9)