What is…
reprobate
also known as: a vile person, depraved person, those who act wickedly, those who are utterly wicked, hateful people, worthless people rejected by God
This refers to something that is unacceptable, unworthy, not approved, depraved, or evil—and is rejected because of its worthlessness.
“…if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned.” —Hebrews 6:8 NASB
This word is also used to refer to persons cast away or rejected because they have failed to make use of opportunities offered them.
The King James translators (and the ASV, DARBY, KJ21) used this word 7 times, whereas more modern translations use it much more sparingly (NASB) or not at all (ESV, CEB, CSV, GW, NIV, NKJV, NRSV, etc.)…
- Jeremiah 6:30 KJV (“reprobate silver” / NASB prefers: “rejected silver”)
- Romans 1:28 KJV (“a reprobate mind” / NASB prefers “a depraved mind”) / ESV: “debased mind”
- 2 Corinthians 13:5-7 KJV (“reprobates” / NASB: “unapproved,” “you fail the test”)
- 2 Timothy 3:8 (“men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith” / NASB: “men of depraved mind, rejected in regard to the faith”)
Titus 1:16…
KJV: “They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.”
NASB: “They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.”
The New American Standard Bible (NASB) translators chose this word only in Psalm 15:4a…
“In whose eyes a reprobate is despised…”
More information
- What is SIN AND WICKEDNESS? Answer
- About the fall of mankind to worldwide depravity
- What is GOODNESS? Answer
- What is RIGHTEOUSNESS? Answer