[Greek] εἰδωλολάτρης (eidōlolatrēs), [Latin] Paganus: idolater, pagan, idol worshiper, servant; 1Cor5:10-11, Cor6:9, Eph5:5, Rev21:8, Rev22:15
Background Information:
Ancient World: The term eidololatres is not found in secular Greek. This practice was not considered sinful at this time before Christianity. This term started in the New Testament and Christian literature of the first Christian centuries, used to define this sinful practice. The term paganus originally was taken to mean countryman or countrywoman who lived in the rural area. These were people who resided in their county district (pagus). They were also considered villagers, “bumpkins”, strangers, or aliens, not affiliated with any civil organizations. So this term was not considered as a religious term. With the introduction of Christianity, the term pagan became later identified with the polytheistic religions.
New Testament: This term means idolaters. Paul warns his Christian communities not to associate or eat with idolaters. No idolaters will inherit (gain entrance) the kingdom of God.
Scripture:
“And do not become idolaters, as some of them did, as it is written, ‘The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to revel’” 1Cor. 10:7
Pagans participated in their idol worship services by consuming the meat and blood of the sacrificed animals.
“Be sure of this, that no immoral or impure or greedy person, that is, an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” Eph 5:5
The Greeks and other earlier civilizations already thought they were worshipping their true “gods” during this time. This was not considered idolatry. So, it was very important that Paul had to make this clear to the people in Ephesus.
Conclusion:
Idolatry, idolater, pagan, paganism
Historically, pagans had either a positive or neutral reputation. It was only after the introduction of Christianity, that paganism attained a negative reputation. Paganism becomes associated with idolatry, animal sacrifices, and worshipping God. Traditional paganism has generally passed. In our current society, we have almost become like ‘little pagans’ “worshipping ” technology, money, power,etc. In fact, there is no a medical condition, called “tech neck’, consisting of neck strain, shoulder problem, pain from bending our necks looking at our electronic devices.