Theology & Concepts
Core doctrines and theological ideas found in Scripture.
'new Moses'
The term 'new Moses' highlights Jesus as the greater lawgiver and mediator who fulfills the role Moses began in the Old Testament.
'the Lord Is Peace'
In Scripture, 'The Lord Is Peace' means God offers a deep, unshakable inner tranquility that transcends circumstances.
144,000 Sealed Servants
The 144,000 sealed servants in Scripture symbolize God's chosen people, protected and marked for His service, as seen in Revelation 7:4-8.
Abundant Life
In Christian teaching, 'abundant life' means living fully and freely in God's purpose, beyond mere existence.
Abundant Peace
Abundant peace is the deep, unshakable calm that comes from trusting God, even in difficult times.
Accountable to God
Being accountable to God means recognizing that we answer for our actions, choices, and lives before Him.
Action
In the Bible, action refers to the practical expression of faith through deeds that align with God's will.
Adam's Fallen Likeness
Adam's fallen likeness describes the human condition after the Fall - marked by sin, shame, and separation from God.
Adoption
In Scripture, adoption means God makes believers His children, giving them a new identity and inheritance.
Adoration
Adoration is the act of worshiping and honoring God for who He is, recognizing His holiness and greatness.
Afterlife
The afterlife refers to the existence believers and non-believers experience after physical death, as taught in Scripture.
Agricultural Abundance
Agricultural abundance in Scripture refers to God’s generous provision of crops, resources, and blessings for His people.
Ancient Near Eastern Cosmologies
Ancient Near Eastern cosmologies refer to the ancient beliefs about the structure and origins of the universe, which often included gods creating or shaping the world from chaos.
Ancient Near Eastern Fertility Symbolism
Ancient Near Eastern fertility symbolism uses natural elements like crops, animals, and seasons to represent God’s life-giving power and covenant faithfulness.
Angelic Messenger
An angelic messenger is a spiritual being sent by God to deliver important communication, often appearing in times of divine revelation or guidance.
Anger
Anger is a strong emotion that Scripture portrays as both a human experience and a divine attribute.
Animal Sacrifices
Animal sacrifices were rituals in the Old Testament where animals were offered to God to atone for sins, symbolizing the seriousness of sin and the need for a substitute.
Answered Prayers
Answered prayers are God's response to believers' requests, often aligning with His will and timing.
Apocalyptic Symbolism
Apocalyptic Symbolism uses vivid images and metaphors to reveal divine truths, especially about God’s ultimate plan and judgment.
Apocalyptic Visions of Renewal
Apocalyptic visions of renewal are dramatic, symbolic glimpses in Scripture of God’s ultimate restoration of creation.
Apostasy
Apostasy means turning away from faith in God, often by rejecting core Christian beliefs or abandoning a life of discipleship.
Apostolic Message
The apostolic message refers to the teachings and revelations given by Jesus' apostles, forming the foundation of Christian faith.
Apostolic Tradition
Apostolic tradition refers to the teachings, practices, and instructions handed down by Jesus' original apostles to the early church.
Apostolic Truth
Apostolic truth refers to the core teachings of Jesus and the apostles, passed down faithfully to future generations.
Assurance of Things Hoped For
The 'assurance of things hoped for' means being confident in God's promises even when we can't see them yet.
Atonement
Atonement is the act of restoring harmony between God and humanity through Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross.
Avenger of Blood
In the Bible, an 'avenger of blood' is a close relative who enforces justice for a murdered family member by bringing the killer to account.
Behavioral Alignment
Behavioral alignment in Christian theology refers to the intentional effort to align our actions, thoughts, and choices with God’s Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Betrayal
Betrayal in Scripture is the act of breaking trust through deceit or disloyalty, often with spiritual consequences.
Biblical Anthropology
Biblical anthropology is the study of what the Bible teaches about humanity - our origin, purpose, and relationship with God.
Biblical Cosmology
Biblical cosmology refers to the Bible’s description of how God created and structured the universe.
Biblical Faith
Biblical faith is trusting God's promises even when we can't see the outcome.
Biblical Prophecy
Biblical prophecy refers to messages from God given to people through chosen messengers, revealing His plans, purposes, and character.
Biblical Values
Biblical values are the core principles found in Scripture that guide how believers should live, love, and serve others.
Bioethics
Bioethics is the study of ethical issues in medicine and biology, guided by biblical principles.
Birthright Blessing
A birthright blessing in Scripture refers to a divine promise or inheritance passed down through family lines, often signifying God's chosen role for a particular descendant.
Blame-shifting
Blame-shifting is when people avoid taking responsibility by pointing fingers at others instead of owning their mistakes.
Body of Christ
The 'body of Christ' refers to the church as a unified, interconnected community of believers.
Bondage
Bondage in the Bible refers to being trapped by sin or evil, unable to escape on our own.
Boundary-setting
Boundary-setting in Scripture means establishing clear limits or guidelines, both physically and spiritually.
Bread of Life
The 'bread of life' is a powerful metaphor in Scripture describing Jesus as the source of eternal nourishment and spiritual fulfillment.
Breaking of Bread
Breaking of bread is a symbolic act in Christianity representing Jesus' sacrificed body and His covenant with believers.
Breath of Life
The 'Breath of Life' refers to God's act of giving life to humanity, first seen in Genesis 2:7 when He breathed into Adam's nostrils, making him a living being.
Broken Creation
Broken creation refers to the state of the world since Adam and Eve's sin, marked by decay, suffering, and disorder.
Broken Nazirite Vows
A broken Nazirite vow happens when someone who has taken a special promise to God fails to keep it.
Broken Spirit
A broken spirit in Scripture refers to a heart humbled by sorrow, sin, or hardship, open to God's healing and restoration.
Broken World
The concept of a 'broken world' describes the fallen state of creation affected by sin, where pain, suffering, and death exist apart from God's original design.
Called
In the Bible, 'called' means God's intentional invitation to a relationship or purpose.
Canonical Authority
Canonical authority means the Bible is God's inspired and authoritative Word, guiding believers in faith and life.
Captivity
Captivity in Scripture describes a state of being physically or spiritually trapped, often as a consequence of sin or as a test of faith.
Chaos
In the Bible, 'chaos' describes a state of formless disorder, often seen as the condition of the world before God brought creation into order.
Character
In Scripture, character refers to the sum of a person's moral and spiritual qualities, revealed through their actions and choices.
Child of Promise
In Scripture, a 'child of promise' is anyone who belongs to God's covenant family through faith rather than physical descent.
Child Sacrifice
Child sacrifice was a pagan practice of offering children to false gods, which the Bible strongly condemns as a violation of God’s commandments.
Children of God
The term 'children of God' describes believers who are united with Jesus through faith, making them part of God’s family.
Children of Promise
The term 'Children of promise' refers to those who belong to God’s family not by physical descent but by faith in His promises.
Christ’s Presence
Christ’s presence means that Jesus is always with His followers, guiding, comforting, and empowering them.
Christ's Return
Christ's return, also called the Second Coming, is the biblical promise that Jesus will physically return to earth to establish God's eternal kingdom.
Christ's Sacrifice
Christ's sacrifice refers to Jesus giving His life on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins, offering forgiveness and eternal life.
Christ's Transformative Love
Christ's transformative love refers to the selfless, sacrificial love demonstrated by Jesus Christ that changes hearts and lives.
Christian Eschatology
Christian eschatology is the study of the end times and God's final plan for creation, as revealed in Scripture.
Christian Ethics
Christian ethics is about living in a way that reflects God’s character and follows Jesus’ teachings.
Christian Leadership
Christian leadership is about guiding others with humility, service, and love, modeled after Jesus’ example.
Christian Life
The Christian life is the journey of living in union with Jesus Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit and empowered by faith.
Christian Principles
Christian principles are the foundational moral and spiritual guidelines that shape how believers live, love, and follow Jesus.
Christocentric Devotion
Christocentric devotion means placing Jesus Christ at the center of our faith, lives, and worship.
Christological Arguments
Christological arguments are ways the Bible explains who Jesus is and why His life, death, and resurrection matter for our faith.
Church Governance
Church governance refers to the system of leadership and organization within a local church, designed to guide believers in unity and service.
City of Man
The 'City of Man' represents human efforts to build a life apart from God, often through pride, self-reliance, or systems that reject divine authority.
City With Foundations
The 'city with foundations' in Scripture symbolizes God's eternal, unshakable kingdom, a place He is building for His people.
Clean Hands
In Scripture, 'clean hands' symbolize moral purity and upright living, reflecting a heart aligned with God's standards.
Collective Well-being
Collective well-being describes a state where God's people thrive together in peace, justice, and shared prosperity.
Comfort
In the Bible, comfort means the peace and assurance God gives to His people in times of trouble.
Command to 'have Dominion'
The command to 'have dominion' refers to humanity's God-given responsibility to steward and care for creation.
Committed Relationship
In the Bible, a committed relationship reflects the selfless love and lifelong covenant between a husband and wife, mirroring Christ's love for the church.
Common
In Scripture, the term 'common' often refers to what is ordinary, profane, or not set apart for sacred use.
Communal Act of Repentance
A communal act of repentance is when a group of people collectively turn from sin and seek God’s forgiveness, reflecting unity and shared responsibility in faith.
Communal Dimensions
Communal dimensions in Scripture refer to the shared, collective aspects of faith that connect believers as part of God’s family.
Communal Faith
Communal faith refers to the shared trust in God and the collective life of believers as a spiritual family.
Communal Holiness
Communal holiness means God’s people living as a set-apart community, reflecting His character through unity and godliness.
Communal Trust
Communal trust is the practice of believers sharing resources, time, and support to reflect God's love and unity.
Communities of Faith
A community of faith is a group of believers who gather to worship, support one another, and live out their shared commitment to Christ.
Community Harmony
Community harmony refers to the unity and peace that Christians are called to maintain within the body of Christ.
Condemnation
In the Bible, condemnation refers to the state of being judged guilty by God, often leading to separation from Him.
Conditional Blessings
Conditional blessings are promises from God that depend on human response, like obedience or faithfulness.
Confess
In the Bible, 'confess' means to openly admit our sins to God, acknowledging that we’ve done wrong and need His forgiveness.
Consecrate Yourselves
To 'consecrate yourselves' means to set apart your life for holy purposes, dedicating yourself wholly to God’s will.
Consecrating
Consecrating means setting something apart for sacred use, often through rituals or dedication to God.
Controlling One's Speech
Controlling one's speech means intentionally guarding words to reflect God's truth and love, avoiding harmful or divisive language.
Conviction of Things Not Seen
The conviction of things not seen refers to trusting in God's promises even when they are not physically evident.
Corporate Responsibility
Corporate responsibility in Scripture means that God holds individuals accountable based on their relationship with Him and their community.
Corporate Sin
Corporate sin refers to the shared guilt or responsibility of a community for wrongdoing, even when not every individual is directly involved.
Corrupt Legal Systems
A corrupt legal system is one that perverts justice, favors the powerful, or enables oppression rather than upholding fairness and righteousness.
Cosmic Judgment
Cosmic judgment is the biblical teaching that God will one day judge all creation, holding every person and spiritual force accountable for their actions.
Cosmic Order
Cosmic order refers to God's sovereign arrangement and harmony in all creation, showing that nothing exists outside His design.
Cosmic Peace
Cosmic peace is the divine harmony restored between God, humanity, and all creation through Jesus Christ.
Cosmic Renewal
Cosmic renewal is the biblical teaching that God will one day transform the entire universe, restoring all creation to reflect His perfect, righteous design.
Counter-culturally
In the Bible, 'counter-culturally' describes living in a way that opposes the values of the surrounding world while reflecting God’s truth.
Covenant
A covenant in Scripture is a sacred promise between God and His people, often marked by deep commitment and mutual obligations.
Covenant Line
The 'covenant line' refers to God’s chosen family line through which He fulfills His promises to bless all nations.
Covenant Loyalty
Covenant loyalty is God's faithful commitment to His people and their response of trust and obedience.
Covenant of Levi
The covenant of Levi refers to God’s agreement with the Levitical priests to serve Him faithfully in worship and justice.
Covenant People
In the Bible, 'covenant people' refers to God's chosen community, bound to Him by a sacred agreement of love, obedience, and promise.
Covenant Plan
The covenant plan is God's promise to build a lasting relationship with His people, centered on faithfulness and grace.
Covenant Test
A covenant test in Scripture is a trial or challenge God uses to strengthen trust and obedience in His promises.
Covenant Transition
Covenant Transition describes how God shifts His covenantal relationship with humanity from the old to the new, as seen in Scripture.
Covenant-keeping Creator
The concept of the covenant-keeping Creator describes God’s unwavering commitment to fulfill His promises.
Covenant-keeping Liberator
The covenant-keeping liberator is a biblical picture of God as the one who faithfully rescues His people by keeping His promises.
Covenantal Faithfulness
Covenantal faithfulness is the idea that God remains true to His promises and loyal to His people, even when they fail.
Covenantal Holiness
Covenantal holiness refers to God’s call for His people to live set apart in moral and spiritual purity, reflecting His own holy nature.
Covenantal Identity
Covenantal identity refers to the unique relationship God establishes with His people through promises and commitments, shaping their identity as His chosen.
Covenantal Judgment
Covenantal Judgment refers to God's response to His people breaking the covenant He establishes with them, often resulting in consequences that reflect His holiness and justice.
Covenantal Kingship
Covenantal Kingship is the biblical concept of God establishing a divine kingship through a covenantal promise, most notably seen in His commitment to David’s lineage.
Covenantal Narrative
Covenantal narrative is the story of God’s promises and relationships with humanity, revealed through sacred agreements in Scripture.
Covenantal Obligations
Covenantal obligations are the mutual promises and responsibilities between God and His people in Scripture.
Covenantal Orientation
Covenantal orientation is the way God relates to His people through lasting promises and mutual commitments.
Covenantal Promise
A covenantal promise is a sacred commitment from God to His people, often involving mutual obligations and lasting forever.
Covenantal Release
Covenantal release refers to the biblical principle of setting people free from obligations when a covenant’s terms are fulfilled, reflecting God’s design for justice and mercy.
Covenantal Renewal
Covenantal renewal is the biblical concept of God reconfirming His promises and relationship with His people after periods of brokenness or distance.
Covenantal Role
Covenantal role refers to God’s committed relationship with His people, marked by promises and obligations.
Covenantal Trust
Covenantal trust is the idea that God remains faithful to His promises even when we don't earn them.
Created Order
The 'created order' refers to all things God made, from the largest galaxies to the smallest creatures.
Created Universe
The concept of the created universe refers to God's act of bringing all things into existence from nothing.
Creation Care
Creation Care is the biblical principle of stewarding and protecting the environment as a reflection of God's love and design.
Creation Theology
Creation theology is the study of how God created the world and what that reveals about His character and purposes.
Creative Authority
Creative authority refers to God's power and right to create and shape all things according to His will.
Creative Order
The concept of 'creative order' refers to God's intentional design and structure in creating the universe and all life.
Creatures
In Scripture, 'creatures' refers to all beings made by God, from humans to animals to angels.
Crisis of Faith
A crisis of faith is a moment when doubt, fear, or confusion shakes a person’s trust in God.
Cultural Biases
Cultural biases are unfair preferences or judgments we make based on someone's background, traditions, or identity.
Curse from Genesis 3
The curse from Genesis 3 refers to the consequences of sin introduced into the world after Adam and Eve disobeyed God.
Curse of Death
The curse of death in Scripture describes the spiritual and physical separation from God that results from sin.
Davidic Monarchy
The Davidic monarchy refers to God's covenant promise that a descendant of King David would forever rule over His people.
De-creation
De-creation is the biblical idea that God will one day destroy the current creation to make way for a new, perfect world.
Dead Faith
Dead faith is belief without action - what James 2:17 calls 'faith without works,' which the Bible describes as spiritually lifeless.
Defilement
In the Bible, defilement refers to a state of uncleanness that separates people from God’s presence.
Deliberate Rebellion
Deliberate rebellion refers to a willful and intentional defiance of God’s commands, often despite clear guidance and blessings.
Deliverance
Deliverance in the Bible means God rescuing His people from danger, bondage, or harm.
Deposit of Faith
The deposit of faith refers to the collection of truths about God, Jesus, and the Christian life that the Church has always believed and passed down.
Desires
In Scripture, desires refer to the inner longings or cravings that shape human choices and relationships.
Despair
In Scripture, despair refers to a deep sense of hopelessness often tied to sin, suffering, or separation from God.
Destruction
In Scripture, destruction refers to the complete and final removal of something, often used to describe eternal separation from God.
Deuteronomic Formula
The Deuteronomic Formula is a key concept in Scripture that reminds us God’s covenant with His people is for every generation.
Deuteronomistic History
Deuteronomistic History is a theological framework that connects the books of Deuteronomy through 2 Kings, showing how Israel’s faithfulness to God’s covenant affects their blessings or punishments.
Devotion
Devotion means wholehearted loyalty and commitment to something or someone.
Discipleship
Discipleship means following Jesus as His learner and student, embracing His teachings, and living out His commands.
Divided World
The concept of a 'divided world' in Scripture refers to humanity's separation into distinct groups - often described as 'nations' or 'Gentiles' - due to sin and the effects of the Fall.
Divine Affirmation
Divine affirmation is God’s public approval or confirmation of His people, often revealed through words, actions, or events in Scripture.
Divine Agency
Divine agency refers to God's active role in creating, sustaining, and guiding the universe and human lives.
Divine Call
Divine call is God’s invitation or summons to a specific purpose, often transforming lives through His grace.
Divine Council
The divine council is a biblical concept describing a group of heavenly beings who gather around God to advise and worship Him.
Divine Education
Divine education is how God teaches and guides His people through Scripture, wisdom, and personal experience.
Divine Election
Divine election is the biblical teaching that God chooses individuals or groups for a special purpose, not based on their own merits but on His will and grace.
Divine Encounter
A divine encounter is a moment when God reveals Himself to humans, often through direct communication, miraculous acts, or powerful spiritual experiences.
Divine Fidelity
Divine fidelity is God’s unwavering faithfulness to His promises, even when humanity falters.
Divine Fulfillment
Divine fulfillment means God's promises and plans come true exactly as He said.
Divine Guidance
Divine guidance is God's active direction in the lives of His people, helping them navigate choices and trust His plan.
Divine Ideals
Divine ideals are God's perfect standards for how He wants humanity to live, reflecting His character through love, justice, and righteousness.
Divine Immutability
Divine Immutability means God does not change in His character, promises, or purposes.
Divine Intentionality
Divine intentionality means that God acts with clear, purposeful plans in everything He does.
Divine Judgment
Divine judgment is God’s righteous response to sin, ensuring justice and accountability for all people.
Divine Justice
Divine justice is how God, as a perfectly fair and righteous Judge, upholds truth, punishes wrongdoing, and rewards righteousness.
Divine Mandate
Divine mandate refers to the authority and commands God gives to His people to carry out His purposes on earth.
Divine Mystery
Divine mystery refers to the hidden truths about God and His plans that are revealed through Scripture and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Divine Origin
Divine origin means that God is the ultimate source of all creation and authority.
Divine Peace (shalom)
Divine peace, or *Shalom*, is more than the absence of conflict - it’s the deep, lasting wholeness and harmony that God offers.
Divine Plan
The concept of divine plan refers to God's overarching purpose for creation and humanity, which He unfolds through history according to His wisdom and will.
Divine Presence
Divine presence refers to God's active, real, and empowering presence with His people throughout Scripture.
Divine Property Deed
The concept of divine property deed refers to God’s ultimate ownership and authority over all creation.
Divine Purification
Divine purification refers to God's act of cleansing individuals or objects from sin and impurity, restoring them to a state of holiness.
Divine Redemption
Divine redemption is God's act of rescuing humanity from sin's power and penalty through Jesus Christ's sacrifice.
Divine Redirection
Divine redirection is when God gently steers people's lives toward His perfect purposes, even when they're unaware of it.
Divine Response
Divine Response is how God actively and personally reacts to human prayers, actions, and faith.
Divine Strategy
Divine strategy refers to God's sovereign plan and purpose that unfolds behind the scenes, often working through human actions to accomplish His eternal goals.
Divine Testing
Divine testing refers to God’s practice of challenging individuals to reveal and refine their faith, character, or commitment.
Divine Timelines
Divine timelines refer to God’s perfect and purposeful ordering of events according to His will.
Divine Timing
Divine timing refers to God’s perfect schedule for events in our lives and in history, revealing His sovereignty and wisdom.
Divine Truths
Divine truths are the eternal, unchanging revelations of God found in Scripture, shaping the foundation of Christian faith.
Divine Warfare
Divine Warfare is the biblical concept of God actively engaging in spiritual battles, both in the universe and in the lives of His people.
Divine Wrath
Divine wrath refers to God’s holy and just anger against sin, which Scripture reveals as a core aspect of His character.
Divinely Inspired
The term 'divinely inspired' means that the Bible is God's message to humanity, written by people under His guidance.
Divinely Inspired Endorsement
Divinely inspired endorsement refers to God’s active role in guiding the authors of Scripture to write His message accurately.
Divinely Orchestrated Coincidences
Divinely orchestrated coincidences are events that seem accidental but are actually guided by God to fulfill His greater purposes.
Doctrinal Coherence
Doctrinal coherence refers to the consistency and unity of biblical teachings across Scripture, showing that all parts of the Bible align to form a single, trustworthy message.
Domestic Peace
Domestic peace refers to the harmony and unity that characterize healthy family relationships, rooted in love and mutual respect.
Dominion
Dominion refers to the authority and responsibility God gives humans to rule over creation as His representatives.
Earthly City
In Scripture, the earthly city represents human systems and powers that stand in opposition to God's heavenly kingdom.
Ecclesiology
Ecclesiology is the study of the church as it is revealed in Scripture.
Egyptian Religious Practices
Egyptian religious practices refer to the beliefs and rituals of ancient Egypt, which often involved idolatry and occult activities.
Election
Election in the Bible means God's choice to set apart people or things for a special purpose.
Election Before Time
Election before time refers to God’s eternal choice of certain individuals for salvation, made before the foundation of the world.
Environmental Ethics
Environmental ethics in Scripture refers to how humans are called to care for God’s creation responsibly.
Equity
In Scripture, equity refers to God’s commitment to fairness, justice, and care for the vulnerable.
Eschatological Completion
Eschatological completion refers to the final fulfillment of God's plan for creation, when all things will be made new.
Eschatological Confidence
Eschatological confidence is the assurance believers have in God’s ultimate promises and future fulfillment, especially in the final events of history.
Eternal Covenant
The eternal covenant is God’s unbreakable promise to humanity, rooted in His unchanging nature and fulfilled through Jesus Christ.
Eternal Glory
Eternal glory refers to the unending honor and majesty that belong to God and His people in heaven.
Eternal Guidance
Eternal guidance is God's ongoing direction and support for believers, rooted in His unchanging character and promises.
Eternal Kingdom
The eternal kingdom refers to God’s everlasting reign of justice, peace, and love, established through Jesus Christ.
Eternal Perspective
Eternal perspective is the mindset of focusing on God's eternal purposes rather than temporary earthly concerns.
Eternal Promises
In the Bible, eternal promises are God’s unchanging commitments to His people, offering assurance that His plans and love endure forever.
Eternal Provision
Eternal provision means God always meets His people’s needs, both spiritual and physical, through every season of life.
Eternal Realities
Eternal realities are the unchanging truths and principles found in God’s Word, offering stability in a world full of uncertainty.
Eternal Rest
Eternal rest is a state of spiritual peace and completion believers experience through faith in Jesus Christ.
Eternal Vitality
Eternal vitality refers to the unending, vibrant life given by God to those who trust in Jesus Christ.
Ethical Behavior
Ethical behavior in Scripture means living in a way that honors God and reflects His character through kindness, honesty, and love.
Ethical Consistency
Ethical consistency means living so that your actions always match God’s moral standards, in both major decisions and everyday choices.
Ethical Demands
Ethical demands in Scripture describe God’s expectations for how His people should live righteously and justly.
Ethical Hospitality
Ethical hospitality is the practice of welcoming others with kindness and respect, especially strangers, as an act of faith and obedience to God.
Ethical Implications
Ethical implications are the moral lessons or consequences that flow from biblical teachings, showing how God’s commands shape human behavior.
Ethical Instructions
Ethical instructions in Scripture are God's practical guidelines for living wisely and justly, rooted in His character and revealed through Scripture.
Ethical Standards
Ethical standards in Scripture are God’s clear guidelines for living morally and justly, rooted in love for Him and others.
Ethics
Ethics refers to the principles that guide right and wrong behavior, rooted in God’s character and revealed through Scripture.
Excess of Food
The concept of 'excess of food' in Scripture warns against overindulgence and highlights the spiritual value of moderation.
Exclusive Devotion
Exclusive devotion means giving all your loyalty, love, and energy to God alone, with no divided heart.
External Enemies
In Scripture, external enemies refer to those who actively oppose God and His people, often through persecution or hostility.
External Piety
External piety refers to outward displays of religiousness that lack genuine inner devotion.
Faith
Faith is trusting God even when we can't see the outcome.
Faith Concepts
Faith in the Bible is trusting God’s promises even when we can’t see the results.
Faith in Christ
Faith in Christ means trusting Jesus as Lord and Savior, relying on His work to reconcile us to God.
Faith-driven Mission
Faith-driven mission is living and sharing the Gospel as a response to God’s love and command.
Faithful Obedience
Faithful obedience is the practice of trusting and following God even when we don’t fully understand His plans, knowing He is always faithful to His promises.
Faithless
Faithless, in a biblical context, refers to a lack of trust or confidence in God's promises and provision.
Fall from Grace
The phrase 'fall from grace' refers to a person's spiritual separation from God due to reliance on legalism or self-effort rather than faith in Christ.
Fallen Nature
Fallen nature refers to the inherent sinfulness and spiritual brokenness that all humans share due to Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.
Fallen World
The term 'fallen world' describes the broken, sin-affected state of creation since Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.
Family Legacy
Family legacy in Scripture refers to how a person's faith, actions, and choices impact future generations, both spiritually and practically.
Fasting
Fasting is the intentional act of abstaining from food, often for spiritual purposes like seeking God's guidance or expressing repentance.
Favor (grace)
Favor, or grace, is God's unearned kindness toward people who don't deserve it.
Fear of Man
Fear of man refers to being overly anxious about what others think, say, or do, letting their opinions or actions control our lives.
Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord in Scripture refers to a deep reverence and awe for God’s holiness, power, and goodness.
Fellowship
Fellowship in the Bible means sharing a close, joyful relationship with God and other believers.
Finality of Judgment
The Finality of judgment refers to God's ultimate, irreversible decision about the eternal destiny of every person.
Fishers of Men
The phrase 'fishers of men' describes a call to share the Good News of Jesus with others.
Folly
In Scripture, folly refers to the deliberate rejection of wisdom and the fear of the Lord, leading to destructive choices.
Foolish Confidence
Foolish confidence is trusting in wealth, status, or self instead of God, leading to spiritual downfall.
Foolishness
In Scripture, foolishness refers to the rejection of wisdom and the Lord’s guidance, often leading to harmful choices.
Foreign Oppression
Foreign oppression in Scripture refers to the unjust suffering of God’s people at the hands of foreign nations, often serving as a test of their faith and a stage for God’s rescue.
Foreign Powers
In Scripture, 'foreign powers' refers to earthly kingdoms and rulers that exist outside God's direct authority but are ultimately under His sovereign control.
Foreknew
The term 'foreknew' in Scripture refers to God's eternal awareness and purposeful selection of individuals for salvation.
Formless and Void
In the Bible, 'formless and void' describes a state of emptiness and disorder, as seen in Genesis 1:2: 'The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep.
Formless Chaos
Formless chaos refers to the state of disorder and emptiness described in Scripture before God's creative acts.
Fortune-telling
Fortune-telling refers to seeking knowledge of the future or hidden truths through spiritual mediums, divination, or other supernatural means.
Free Will
Free will, in theological terms, is the ability God grants to choose between right and wrong.
Friendship of the Lord
The 'friendship of the Lord' describes the close, personal bond God invites believers into - a relationship marked by trust, love, and mutual care.
Fruitfulness
Fruitfulness in Scripture means producing good results that honor God, whether in relationships, work, or spiritual growth.
Functional Adequacy
Functional adequacy refers to the idea that God's Word equips believers to live out their faith effectively in every area of life.
Future Redemption
Future redemption is God's promise to fully restore creation and renew humanity through Jesus Christ.
General Revelation
General revelation is how God reveals Himself through nature, creation, and the world around us, rather than through special revelation like Scripture.
Generational Responsibility
Generational responsibility is the biblical idea that our actions - both good and bad - can shape the spiritual and moral future of those who come after us.
Generations of Promise
The concept of 'generations of promise' refers to God’s unbreakable covenant to bless and preserve His people across generations, rooted in His faithfulness to Abraham and his descendants.
Generosity
Generosity is the selfless act of giving time, resources, or love without expecting anything in return.
Gentile Inclusion
Gentile inclusion means that God's salvation and covenant promises extend to all people, not only Jews.
Gift of Interpretation
The gift of interpretation is a spiritual ability given by the Holy Spirit to help believers understand and explain divine truths, especially when someone speaks in tongues.
Global Perspective
A global perspective in Scripture sees God's love and plan for all people, not only one nation.
Glorified
In Scripture, 'glorified' describes being honored, exalted, or made radiant by God’s presence and power.
Glory
In the Bible, glory refers to the visible presence and majesty of God, showing who He truly is.
Gnostic Beliefs
Gnostic beliefs were early teachings that mixed Christian ideas with pagan philosophy, emphasizing secret knowledge over Scripture.
God As the One Who Sees
In the Bible, God being 'the One who sees' highlights His all-knowing, watchful nature and His deep, personal awareness of human lives.
God Most High
God Most High is a title that highlights God's supreme authority and sovereignty over all creation.
God of Seeing
The term 'God of seeing' highlights God's all-seeing nature and His active awareness of human lives.
God of Slaves
The concept of 'God of slaves' highlights God's identity as the liberator of the oppressed, particularly seen in His rescue of Israel from Egypt.
God-given Mission
A God-given mission is a divine purpose assigned by God to individuals or communities, guiding their actions and priorities.
God-king
The term 'god-king' refers to God’s role as the ultimate ruler and sovereign, emphasizing His supreme authority and majesty.
God's Authority
God's authority refers to His supreme power and right to govern all creation.
God's Command
God's command refers to the divine instructions He gives to humanity, revealing His will and character.
God's Favor
God's favor is His unmerited love and approval shown to humanity, especially through Jesus Christ.
God's Glory
God's glory refers to His visible presence and the radiant expression of His character, especially His holiness, love, and power.
God's Good Creation
God's good creation refers to the world and all life He made, declared 'very good' in Genesis 1:31.
God's Grace
God's grace is His unmerited favor toward us - love given freely, not earned by our deeds.
God's Holy Standards
God's holy standards refer to His perfect, unchanging moral and ethical requirements that reflect His character.
God's Kingdom
God's kingdom refers to the rule and reign of God over all creation, where His will is done perfectly.
God’s Likeness
God’s likeness refers to the unique qualities that reflect His character and nature, given to humans as part of their creation.
God's Love
God's love is the selfless, sacrificial affection He shows toward humanity, demonstrated most clearly through Jesus Christ.
God's Masterpiece
God's masterpiece refers to His creative work in forming humanity and redeeming believers through Christ.
God's Meticulous Control
God's meticulous control means He has complete authority over every detail of creation, from the grand to the small.
God's Moral Law
God's moral law is the eternal, unchanging standard of right and wrong that reflects His holy character.
God’s Own Rest
God’s own rest refers to the peace and freedom believers find when they trust in His completed work through Jesus Christ.
God’s Power
God’s power is His unlimited ability to do all things, revealed through creation, miracles, and the work of Jesus.
God's Promises
God's promises are His unchanging commitments to humanity, revealing His faithfulness and character.
God's Sovereign Plan
God's sovereign plan means He is in ultimate control, guiding all things toward His perfect purpose.
God's Unseen Providence
God's unseen providence refers to His quiet, behind-the-scenes work to fulfill His purposes, even when we don’t recognize it at the time.
God’s Wisdom
God’s wisdom is His perfect, all-knowing ability to guide, teach, and reveal truth.
God's Word
God's Word is the message or communication from God to humanity, primarily found in the Bible.
Goel
In the Bible, 'goel' means 'kinsman-redeemer' - a close relative who restores justice, protects property, or redeems family members in need.
Gospel
The Gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection, offering salvation to all who believe.
Gospel Message
The gospel message is the good news that Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose again, offering salvation to all who believe.
Gospel of Grace
The gospel of grace is the message that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by human effort or good works.
Gospel Plan
The gospel plan is God’s divine strategy to rescue humanity from sin through Jesus Christ.
Gospel's Inclusivity
The gospel's inclusivity means that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all people, regardless of race, social status, or gender.
Grace
Grace is God's unearned favor and kindness toward us, even when we don't deserve it.
Gracious Savior
The term 'gracious savior' describes God's unwavering love and willingness to save humanity through Jesus Christ, even when we don't deserve it.
Gratitude
Gratitude is more than a feeling - it’s a spiritual discipline that transforms how Christians see God’s faithfulness.
Graven Images
Graven images are man-made objects crafted for worship or representation of deities, a practice God explicitly forbids in Scripture.
Great Deep
The 'great deep' in Scripture refers to the primordial waters described in Genesis 1:2, symbolizing both chaos and the foundation of God’s creative power.
Greed
Greed is an intense desire for wealth, possessions, or more than one needs, often at the expense of others.
Guilt Offering
A guilt offering was a sacrifice in the Old Testament for unintentional sins, restoring a person's relationship with God by atoning for wrongs done against Him or others.
Hardness of Heart
Hardness of heart refers to a stubborn, unrepentant attitude that resists God’s will and His correction.
Heal the Land
The concept of 'heal the land' in Scripture refers to God’s promise to restore both people and creation from brokenness.
Healing
In the Bible, healing is God’s power to restore physical, emotional, and spiritual wholeness.
Healing of the Nations
The healing of the nations refers to God’s promise to restore and renew all creation, particularly through Christ’s victory over sin and death.
Heavenly Court
The heavenly court is a biblical picture of God's divine government, where He rules righteously over all creation.
Heavenly Mysteries
Heavenly mysteries refer to divine truths revealed in Scripture that are beyond human understanding but essential to our faith.
Heavenly Perspective
A heavenly perspective means focusing on God’s kingdom and eternal values rather than temporary earthly concerns.
Heirs to His Promises
In Scripture, 'heirs to His promises' refers to believers who receive the blessings and eternal rewards God has pledged to those who trust Him.
Hellenistic Judaism
Hellenistic Judaism describes how Jewish faith and practices blended with Greek culture and philosophy during the Second Temple period.
Hellenistic Philosophy
Hellenistic philosophy refers to the blending of Greek philosophical ideas with Jewish and early Christian thought, especially in the first century.
Hesed
In the Bible, 'hesed' refers to God’s steadfast love and covenant faithfulness - His loyal devotion that never wavers.
Hidden Wisdom
Hidden wisdom refers to the deep, divine truths of God's plan that were revealed through Jesus Christ, not through human understanding.
Hierarchical Authority
Hierarchical authority in Scripture refers to the ordered structure of leadership and submission within God’s design for the church and family.
Hired Hands
In the Bible, 'hired hands' describe workers who act only for their own benefit, not out of genuine care.
His Presence
In Scripture, 'His presence' refers to God’s active, tangible nearness to His people, often marked by power and grace.
His Spirit
His Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, who dwells in believers and guides them into truth.
Historical Involvement
Historical involvement refers to God’s active role in guiding and shaping human history according to His purposes.
Historical-grammatical Analysis
Historical-grammatical analysis is a method of reading the Bible that looks at the original context, language, and history of a passage to understand what it truly meant.
Holiness Code
The Holiness Code is a set of laws in the Bible, primarily found in Leviticus, that guide believers to live in a way that reflects God’s holy character.
Holistic Faith
Holistic faith means trusting God in every part of life, not only believing about Him mentally.
Holistic Well-being
In Scripture, holistic well-being means God's desire for our full flourishing in body, soul, and spirit.
Hollow Religious Rituals
Hollow religious rituals refer to outward acts of worship or obedience that lack genuine heart devotion.
Holy Conquest
Holy Conquest refers to God's act of claiming or taking control, often through His people, as seen in Scripture.
Holy Day of Rest
The holy day of rest, often associated with the Sabbath, is a time set apart for rest, worship, and reflection on God’s goodness.
Holy Living
Holy living means living a life set apart for God, reflecting His character and obeying His commands.
Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is God’s active presence in the world and in believers’ lives, guiding, empowering, and transforming them.
Holy War
In Scripture, holy war refers to conflicts waged under God’s direct command for a sacred purpose, such as claiming the Promised Land or defending His people.
Honor
Honor in Scripture means showing respect and reverence, especially toward God and others as He commands.
Honor-shame Dynamics
Honor-shame dynamics describe a cultural framework where actions, relationships, and character determine one's reputation - key to understanding many biblical narratives.
Honor-shame Framework
The honor-shame framework explains how actions in the Bible often relate to gaining honor or avoiding shame, shaping relationships with God and others.
Hospitality As Worship
Hospitality as worship means treating guests with kindness and generosity, recognizing that caring for others honors God.
Hostile Actions
Hostile actions refer to harmful or angry behaviors that contradict God's desire for peace and love.
Human Agency
Human agency refers to the God-given ability of people to make real choices that align with or reject His will.
Human Ambition
Human ambition refers to the drive to achieve personal goals, often apart from God's guidance.
Human Arrogance
Human arrogance is the dangerous pride that leads people to believe they are superior to others or even to God.
Human Autonomy
Human autonomy refers to the ability of people to make independent choices, especially in matters of faith and morality.
Human Choice
Human choice refers to the ability God has given humans to make decisions that shape their lives and relationship with Him.
Human Dignity
Human dignity refers to the inherent worth and value God gives to every person because they are made in His image.
Human Divisions
Human divisions are the barriers people create based on race, culture, or beliefs.
Human Existence
Human existence, in a theological sense, refers to the unique reality of humans as beings created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).
Human Failure
Human failure refers to the inability of people to meet God’s perfect standards, as seen in the fall of Adam and Eve and the ongoing struggle with sin.
Human Forgetfulness
Human forgetfulness in Scripture refers to the tendency to neglect or ignore God’s faithfulness and guidance.
Human Frailty
Human frailty refers to the inherent weakness and mortality of human beings, a reality the Bible consistently acknowledges.
Human Heart
In Scripture, the human heart is the core of a person’s being - where thoughts, desires, and intentions originate.
Human Love
Human love, in Christian teaching, is selfless, sacrificial care for others that reflects God’s character.
Human Merit
Human merit refers to the idea that people can earn God’s favor through their own efforts or good deeds.
Human Pride
Human pride is the sin of overvaluing oneself and rejecting God's authority.
Human Rebellion
Human rebellion refers to the willful choice to turn away from God’s authority, a concept central to understanding the Fall in Scripture.
Human Religious Authority
Human religious authority refers to the power or influence that people, especially religious leaders, claim to have over others' spiritual lives.
Human Rights
Human rights refer to the inherent dignity and value God gives to every person, regardless of background.
Human Understanding
Human understanding refers to the natural way humans think and reason apart from divine revelation.
Human Weakness
Human weakness describes the brokenness and limitations humans experience due to sin, separating us from God.
Human Willingness
Human willingness refers to the capacity and choice of people to align their hearts and actions with God’s purposes.
Human Wisdom
Human wisdom is the ability to make good decisions and understand life's challenges through the guidance of God.
Human Worth
Human worth, in Christian teaching, means that every person is valued by God because we are made in His image (Genesis 1:27).
Humanity's Brokenness
Humanity's brokenness refers to the separation from God that began with sin and continues to affect all people.
Humanitys Relationship With God
Humanity's relationship with God is rooted in creation, covenant, and redemption, reflecting God's desire for fellowship and His people's response of faith and obedience.
Humans
In Scripture, humans are unique because they are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), which means they reflect His likeness and purpose.
Humble
In the Bible, humility means putting others first and trusting God's wisdom above our own.
Humble Listening
Humble listening is more than staying quiet - it involves genuinely seeking to understand others with respect and openness, as Scripture teaches.
Humble Servanthood
Humble servanthood is the practice of putting others first with a heart of humility and obedience to God.
Humility in Leadership
Humility in leadership means putting others before oneself and serving with a selfless heart, as Jesus did.
I Am
In the Bible, 'I AM' is a name of God that reveals His eternal and unchanging nature.
Identity
In the Bible, identity means who we are in Christ - rooted in His grace, not our own efforts.
Image of God
The 'Image of God' describes how humans reflect God’s character, purpose, and rule.
Image-bearing
Image-bearing means humans are created in God's likeness, reflecting His character and purpose.
Imago Dei
The concept of *imago Dei* means that humans are made in the image of God, reflecting His character and purpose.
Impartial Sovereignty
Impartial sovereignty means God is all-powerful and fair, never favoring one person over another.
Imperishable Heavenly Inheritance
The imperishable heavenly inheritance is a Christian promise of eternal, uncorrupted life with God, secured through Jesus Christ.
Incarnate Christ
The incarnate Christ refers to Jesus, who is both fully God and fully human.
Incarnation
The Incarnation is the belief that God became human in Jesus Christ, bridging the divine and the earthly.
Indifference
In a theological context, indifference refers to a lack of concern or apathy toward God's will and the spiritual needs of others.
Indulgent Lifestyles
In Scripture, indulgent lifestyles refer to prioritizing worldly pleasures and excess over spiritual growth and godly living.
Influencing Culture
Influencing culture means living as God's people in a way that shapes society for good, reflecting His values and calling others to Him.
Inheritance (portion/lot)
In the Bible, 'Inheritance (Portion/Lot)' refers to God’s gift of land, blessings, or spiritual legacy to His people.
Inheritance in Christ
In Christian theology, inheritance in Christ refers to the spiritual blessings and eternal promises believers receive through their union with Jesus.
Inheritance of Iniquity
The 'inheritance of iniquity' refers to the idea that the consequences of sin can affect future generations.
Inhospitality
Inhospitality means refusing to welcome or care for others, especially strangers or those in need.
Iniquities
In the Bible, iniquities refer to willful, moral wrongdoing that separates us from God.
Innocence
Innocence in the Bible refers to a pure, childlike faith and moral purity that reflects God’s character.
Institutionalized Worship
Institutionalized worship refers to the organized, structured ways God’s people gather to honor and serve Him.
Intellectual Assent
Intellectual assent means agreeing in your mind with spiritual truths, like believing in Jesus as Lord.
Intercedes
In Christian theology, to 'intercede' means to pray for or advocate on behalf of others, especially in a spiritual context.
Intercession
Intercession is the act of praying on behalf of others, especially in the context of seeking God's mercy or guidance.
Invitation
In Scripture, 'invitation' refers to God's open call to humanity to enter into a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.
Isolation
In theology, isolation refers to the spiritual separation between humanity and God caused by sin.
Israel's Role
In Scripture, Israel's role is about being God's chosen people, set apart to reflect His holiness and covenant love.
Israelite Monarchies
The Israelite monarchies refer to the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah after the reign of Solomon, tracing God’s covenant relationship with His people through flawed human leadership.
Jealousy
Jealousy, in a biblical sense, is God’s intense desire for loyalty and devotion from His people.
Jesus' Compassion
Jesus' compassion is more than feeling sorry for others - it's a deep, active concern that moves Him to help those in need.
Jewish Eschatological Prayers
Jewish eschatological prayers are heartfelt pleas to God for the fulfillment of His promises about the end times, including the coming of the Messiah and the restoration of Israel.
Jewish Identity
Jewish identity refers to the unique relationship God established with the Israelites as His chosen people, rooted in covenant promises and a call to holy living.
Jewish Tradition
Jewish tradition refers to the customs, teachings, and practices passed down through generations, rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures and rabbinic wisdom.
Joel Prophecy
The Joel prophecy is a message from God recorded in the Book of Joel, where the prophet calls Israel to repentance before God’s coming judgment.
Jubilee
The biblical concept of Jubilee is a year of liberation and restoration declared every 50 years, as seen in Leviticus 25:10: 'Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants.
Judge of All the Earth
The phrase 'Judge of all the earth' describes God’s role in Scripture as the ultimate authority who fairly assesses every person’s actions.
Judgment
In the Bible, judgment refers to God’s righteous evaluation and response to human sin, revealing both His holiness and His justice.
Judicial Authority
Judicial authority in Scripture refers to the God-ordained power to make and enforce decisions that uphold justice and order.
Just Judge
In Scripture, 'just judge' refers to rendering fair, impartial decisions that align with God's standards of righteousness.
Justice
In Scripture, justice means treating others fairly and righteously, reflecting God’s holy character.
Justification
Justification is God’s act of declaring believers righteous through faith in Jesus, not because of their own goodness.
Justification by Faith
Justification by faith means being made right with God through trust in Jesus Christ, not by our own efforts.
Justification by Grace
Justification by grace means being made right with God not because of our good deeds, but because of His unearned love and forgiveness through Jesus.
Justified
To be 'justified' means God declares believers righteous because of their faith in Jesus, not because of their good deeds.
Kingdom
In the Bible, the term 'kingdom' often refers to God's sovereign rule over all creation, especially as revealed through Jesus Christ.
Kingdom of God
The Kingdom of God refers to God's active reign and rule in the world, both present and future, central to Jesus' teachings.
Kingdom of Heaven
The 'kingdom of heaven' refers to God's sovereign rule over all creation, especially as revealed through Jesus Christ.
Kingdom Truths
In the Bible, kingdom truths refer to the teachings and realities about God's reign and rule over all creation.
Kingly Line
The 'kingly line' refers to God's promised royal lineage, especially the descendants of David through whom the Messiah would come.
Kinsman-redeemer
The kinsman-redeemer is a biblical concept describing a relative who steps in to restore justice, protect family, or reclaim what is lost.
Knowledge of the Glory of God
The 'knowledge of the glory of God' means recognizing and understanding God's majestic, holy, and life-giving nature.
Lament
Lament is a heartfelt cry to God in times of suffering, grief, or confusion.
Law and Grace
Law and grace are two foundational ideas in Scripture that show how God relates to His people.
Law of Moses
The Law of Moses refers to the body of religious laws and commandments given by God to the Israelites through Moses, recorded in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
Lawlessness
Lawlessness, in a biblical sense, means living without regard for God's laws and moral standards.
Laws of Clean and Unclean
The 'laws of clean and unclean' in Scripture were God’s way of teaching the Israelites how to live holy lives by distinguishing between what was acceptable and what was not.
Leadership
In Scripture, leadership is about serving others with humility rather than seeking power.
Legal Ratification
Legal ratification in Scripture refers to the formal agreement and sealing of a covenant between God and His people.
Legalism
Legalism is when people focus so much on following rules that they lose sight of the bigger picture of love and righteousness.
Legalistic Piety
Legalistic piety refers to a religious devotion that prioritizes strict adherence to rules over compassion and justice.
Levitian Priesthood
The Levitical priesthood refers to the system established in the Old Testament where the tribe of Levi was set apart to serve God in religious duties, such as sacrifices and temple work.
Levitical Law
The Levitical law refers to the religious, moral, and ceremonial laws given to Moses on Mount Sinai, especially in the Book of Leviticus.
License
In Christian theology, 'license' refers to the divine authority or permission granted by God for specific actions, such as ministry or teaching.
Likeness of God
The concept of 'Likeness of God' refers to how humans reflect God's character and qualities, not their physical form.
Line of Promise
The line of promise is God’s chosen family line through which He fulfills His saving promises to humanity.
Lineage of Cain
The lineage of Cain refers to the descendants of Cain, Adam and Eve's firstborn son, as recorded in Genesis 4:17-24.
Lineage of Hope
The lineage of hope refers to the biblical thread of promises and faith that connects God's covenants from Abraham to Jesus, showing how hope in Him unfolds through history.
Liturgical
In the Bible, 'liturgical' refers to the structured rituals and practices that shape worship and spiritual life.
Living Hope
In Christianity, 'living hope' refers to the active, transformative assurance of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
Local Heresy
Local heresy refers to false teachings or practices that distort biblical truth within a specific community or context.
Long-term Faith
Long-term faith is the steadfast trust in God's promises, even when the results take time to unfold.
Lord
In Scripture, 'Lord' refers to God's supreme authority and sovereignty over creation.
Lord of the Sabbath
The phrase 'Lord of the Sabbath' refers to Jesus’ authority over the Sabbath day, emphasizing that He defines its purpose and meaning.
Lord’s Day
The Lord’s Day, often associated with Sunday, is the day set apart for worship and rest in honor of Christ’s resurrection.
Love Enemies
Loving enemies is a radical Christian teaching that calls believers to respond to hostility with kindness and forgiveness.
Love for Our Neighbor
At its core, love for our neighbor means caring for others as we care for ourselves, a principle central to Jesus' teaching on God’s will for humanity.
Love One Another
Loving one another is a central command in Christianity, rooted in Jesus’ instruction to 'love one another as I have loved you' (John 13:34-35).
Love Your Enemies
The phrase 'love your enemies' means responding to hostility with kindness, as taught in Scripture.
Lovingkindness
Lovingkindness, often translated as steadfast love or mercy, reveals God's unwavering commitment to His people.
Manslayer
A manslayer is someone who unintentionally causes another person's death, often covered by biblical laws regarding accidental killing.
Marital Intimacy
Marital intimacy refers to the deep, God-given bond between husband and wife that includes physical, emotional, and spiritual connection.
Marriage
Marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, reflecting God’s design for love, unity, and lifelong commitment.
Master
In Scripture, a 'master' is one who holds authority and responsibility over others, often symbolizing a relationship of trust and obedience.
Materialism
Materialism in Scripture refers to the excessive love of money or possessions that pulls our hearts away from God.
Mediated Access
Mediated access means that humans can only approach God through a mediator - Jesus Christ.
Memorial Portion
The Memorial Portion, or 'firstfruits' offering, is a biblical practice where the Israelites gave the first part of their harvest to God as a sign of gratitude and remembrance.
Mercy
Mercy is God's compassion that forgives and shows kindness to those who deserve punishment.
Merit-based Salvation
Merit-based salvation is the idea that people earn God's favor or eternal life through their own good deeds or moral achievements.
Messiah's Kingdom
The Messiah's kingdom is the divine rule established by Jesus, fulfilling God's promises to restore creation.
Messianic Expectations
Messianic expectations refer to the belief in and anticipation of a promised Savior, the Messiah, who would fulfill God's plan for redemption.
Messianic Figure
In the Bible, the messianic figure refers to the one chosen by God to bring salvation and fulfill His promises.
Messianic Hope
Messianic Hope is the belief in God’s promise to send a future Savior, the Messiah, who will bring salvation and restore all things.
Messianic Theology
Messianic theology is the study of how the Old Testament prophesies about the Messiah are fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Miracle
A miracle is a supernatural act of God that breaks the normal order of creation to reveal His power and purposes.
Miraculous Deliverance
Miraculous deliverance means when God rescues people from impossible situations in a way only He could do.
Misplaced Trust
Misplaced trust happens when we rely on people, things, or our own abilities instead of trusting God.
Misuse of Power
Misuse of power happens when someone uses their authority to harm others, take credit for God’s work, or ignore His will.
Modesty
Modesty, in the Bible, is about humility, self-control, and honoring God with our choices.
Monotheism
Monotheism is the belief in one, true God who created everything and rules over all.
Monotheistic Framework
A monotheistic framework means believing in one, singular God who is the creator and ruler of everything.
Moral and Eschatological Ideal
The moral and eschatological ideal in Scripture combines God's call to holy living with the hope of Christ's ultimate triumph.
Moral Choice
A moral choice is a decision that aligns with God's standards of right and wrong, shaping our character and eternal destiny.
Moral Clarity
Moral clarity means having a clear, unwavering sense of right and wrong rooted in God’s Word.
Moral Decay
Moral decay refers to a gradual decline in ethical and spiritual standards, leading individuals or societies away from God's truth.
Moral Distinctiveness
Moral distinctiveness is the idea that Christians are called to live according to God's holy standards, setting them apart from the world.
Moral Imperatives
Moral imperatives are God's clear commands that guide ethical living and reflect His character.
Moral Lessons
Moral lessons in Scripture are teachings that guide believers in living according to God's will and wisdom.
Moral Sin
Moral sin refers to deliberate actions that rebel against God's known will, breaking His commands and reflecting a heart turned away from Him.
Morality
Morality refers to the principles that distinguish right from wrong behavior.
Mortality
Mortality, or the state of being subject to death, is a foundational concept in Scripture that shapes our understanding of human existence and redemption.
Mutual Affection
Mutual affection in Scripture means selfless love and care for fellow believers, rooted in Christ's example.
Mutual Trust
Mutual trust in Scripture means relying on God and each other as He calls us to support and uplift one another.
Mysteries
In the Bible, 'mysteries' refer to truths about God and His plan that were once hidden but are now revealed through Christ.
Mystery of God's Ways
The 'mystery of God's ways' refers to the truth that God's plans and thoughts are far greater than human understanding.
Mystery of Suffering
The 'mystery of suffering' refers to the struggle to understand why a good and sovereign God allows pain and hardship in the lives of His people.
National Confession
National confession occurs when a nation or community collectively turns to God in repentance, seeking His mercy and guidance.
National Pride
National pride is the excessive loyalty or superiority claimed for one’s nation, often at the expense of others or God’s authority.
National Unity
National unity in Scripture refers to people being united under God’s purpose, reflecting harmony and shared faith.
National Well-being
National well-being, in Scripture, refers to the prosperity and harmony of a nation as blessed by God when His people live in obedience to His commands.
Natural Order
Natural order in Scripture refers to God’s divinely established structure for relationships and roles, reflecting His design for harmony and purpose.
Natural Revelation
Natural revelation is how God makes Himself known through the created world.
Nazirite
A Nazirite was someone who took a special vow to dedicate themselves fully to God, often through practices like avoiding wine, not cutting their hair, and staying away from dead bodies.
Neighborly Love
Neighborly love means caring for others selflessly, treating everyone with kindness and respect, especially those in need.
New Covenant Community
The new covenant community refers to believers united under Jesus’ sacrifice, replacing the old covenant’s laws with grace and faith.
New Creation
In the Bible, 'New Creation' describes the radical transformation that happens when someone becomes a follower of Jesus Christ.
Nothing
In Scripture, 'nothing' often refers to the absence of physical support or substance, highlighting God's power to sustain creation through His Word alone.
Oath
An oath in Scripture is a solemn promise or vow made to God, often sealed with a covenant.
Obedient Perseverance
Obedient perseverance means staying faithful to God's will even when it's hard, trusting that He is working for our good.
Obeying His Commands
To obey God's commands means following His teachings and living by His Word, reflecting love and trust in Him.
Occult Practices
Occult practices involve seeking power, knowledge, or guidance from spiritual forces outside of God’s revealed will - like divination, sorcery, or communicating with the dead.
Offering
An offering in the Bible is a gift given to God, often as an act of worship, gratitude, or repentance.
Offerings for Sin
Offerings for sin in the Bible were sacrifices made to God to seek forgiveness for wrongdoing.
Old Self
The 'old self' refers to the part of us that was shaped by sin and separated from God, which Christians are called to leave behind through faith in Christ.
Old Testament Prophecies
Old Testament prophecies are divine messages that reveal future events, often pointing forward to the coming of Jesus Christ.
Omission
In theology, omission refers to the sin of neglecting to do good that one knows is right.
Omnipotence
Omnipotence means God is all-powerful - nothing is impossible for Him.
Omniscience
Omniscience means God knows everything - past, present, and future - without limits.
Once-for-all Atonement
Once-for-all atonement means that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross completely and permanently paid the price for sin.
One Flesh
The concept of 'one flesh' in Scripture describes the deep, God-ordained unity between a husband and wife in marriage.
One God
The concept of 'one God' is foundational to biblical faith, teaching that there is only one true Creator and Sustainer of the universe.
Oneness
The concept of oneness in Scripture emphasizes that God is singular, unique, and beyond comparison.
Opposition
Opposition in Scripture refers to challenges or conflicts that test faith, often used by God to refine believers' trust in Him.
Oppressed
In the Bible, the oppressed are those who suffer from injustice, cruelty, or hardship without fair treatment.
Oppression
Oppression means unfairly burdening or mistreating others, often those who can't defend themselves.
Oppression of the Poor
The oppression of the poor refers to the unjust treatment or exploitation of those in need, often by the powerful or privileged.
Order Out of Chaos
The concept of 'order out of chaos' describes God’s power to bring structure and purpose from disorder or nothingness, as seen clearly in creation.
Ordered Universe
The concept of an ordered universe in Scripture describes God’s creation as intentionally structured and purposeful, reflecting His wisdom and care.
Original Sin
Original sin refers to the inherited state of sinfulness all humans share because of Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.
Passion
In Christian theology, 'passion' refers to Jesus' intense suffering and sacrifice, especially during His arrest, trial, and crucifixion.
Passive Wishful Thinking
Passive wishful thinking happens when we hope for God's favor without taking action to prepare for it.
Patriarchal Blessing
A patriarchal blessing is a divine declaration passed down from a spiritual leader, often a father or prophet, that carries God's promises and authority.
Peace With God
Peace with God is more than the absence of conflict. It is a restored relationship with our Creator through Jesus Christ.
Perfect Atoning Offering
The perfect atoning offering refers to Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, which fully satisfies God’s justice and removes the guilt of sin forever.
Perfect Timing
Perfect timing refers to God's divine orchestration of events to fulfill His purposes exactly when needed.
Persistent Sin
Persistent sin refers to willfully continuing in wrongdoing despite knowing God’s will and the consequences.
Personal Faith
Personal faith is the heartfelt trust in God's promises and His Word, forming the foundation of a believer's relationship with Him.
Personal Grace
Personal grace is God’s unmerited favor given to people, not because of their actions but by His will.
Physical Intimacy
Physical intimacy in the Bible refers to the sacred, God-ordained closeness between spouses, reflecting the union between Christ and His Church.
Physical Security
Physical security in Scripture refers to the divine protection and safety promised to believers who trust in God.
Pleasure
Pleasure, in a theological sense, refers to the deep joy and delight found in God’s presence and His gifts.
Poetic Justice
Poetic justice is the idea that people’s actions often lead to consequences that feel fitting or ironic, as if the universe itself responds to their choices.
Political Liberation
Political liberation, in a theological sense, refers to God’s act of delivering His people from oppression and bondage, both physically and spiritually.
Polytheistic Cosmologies
Polytheistic cosmologies refer to belief systems that recognize multiple gods who govern different parts of the universe.
Polytheistic Deities
Polytheistic deities refer to the belief in and worship of multiple gods, a concept directly contrasted with the biblical teaching of one true God.
Polytheistic Practices
Polytheistic practices involve worshiping multiple gods or goddesses, which the Bible clearly opposes.
Potential Sins
Potential sins are behaviors or attitudes that Scripture warns can lead to actual sin if left unchecked.
Poverty
In Scripture, poverty often refers to spiritual humility rather than material lack.
Power
In Scripture, power is the divine strength that enables believers to live faithfully despite challenges.
Praise
Praise is the act of honoring and celebrating God for who He is and what He has done.
Praise the Lord
Praising the Lord means expressing worship and gratitude to God for who He is and what He has done.
Prayer
Prayer is the way we talk to God, sharing our thoughts, needs, and praise.
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of confession is the act of acknowledging our sins to God, trusting in His promise to forgive and restore.
Preaching
Preaching is the act of proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ to others.
Preserving Truth
Preserving truth means safeguarding and upholding God's unchanging Word in a world that often shifts away from it.
Presumptuous Sins
Presumptuous sins are willful acts of defiance against God’s clear commands, often done with pride or rebellion in the heart.
Pride
Pride is a self-centered attitude that exalts oneself above others, often at odds with God’s call to humility.
Priestly Community
In the Bible, a priestly community refers to a group of believers who act as priests to God, offering spiritual sacrifices and representing Him to the world.
Priestly Line
The priestly line in Scripture refers to the descendants of Aaron, chosen to serve as mediators between God and His people, ensuring holy worship and spiritual guidance.
Primordial State
The primordial state refers to the original condition of humanity as created by God - perfect, in His image, and in right relationship with Him.
Privilege
In Scripture, privilege refers to the special status and blessings God grants to His people, often tied to their relationship with Him and their purpose.
Problem of Evil
The 'problem of evil' asks why a good, all-powerful God allows suffering and wrongdoing in the world.
Promise
In the Bible, a promise is a solemn declaration from God that He will do what He says.
Promise-keeper
In the Bible, a 'promise-keeper' describes God's unwavering faithfulness to every vow He makes.
Promised Future
The 'promised future' refers to God’s unchanging plan to restore creation and bring eternal joy to His people.
Promised Heir
The promised heir is the descendant through whom God fulfills His covenant promises, most notably to Abraham.
Proper Worship
Proper worship, as taught in Scripture, is the sincere and truthful reverence given to God that aligns with His character and Word.
Property
In the Bible, property refers to ownership granted by God, often tied to covenants and promises.
Prophecy
Prophecy is God’s way of sharing His messages with people through chosen messengers.
Prophetic Act
A prophetic act is when a prophet physically acts out a message from God to show His people what’s coming or to call them to repentance.
Prophetic Authority
Prophetic Authority refers to the divine power and responsibility given to biblical prophets to speak on God’s behalf.
Prophetic Complaint
A prophetic complaint is when a biblical prophet honestly expresses frustration or confusion to God about injustice, suffering, or unmet expectations.
Prophetic Hope
Prophetic hope is the confident expectation of God’s promises coming to pass, rooted in His faithfulness and future plans.
Prophetic Judgments
Prophetic judgments are God’s warnings and calls to repentance, often revealed through the words of His prophets.
Prophetic Oracle
A prophetic oracle is a message from God delivered through a prophet to reveal His will, warnings, or promises.
Prophetic Poetry
Prophetic poetry in Scripture blends poetic language with prophetic messages to reveal divine truths.
Prophetic Warning
A prophetic warning is a message from God, delivered through prophets, urging people to repent and turn from sin to avoid judgment.
Propitiation
Propitiation means that Jesus' death on the cross satisfied God's righteous anger against sin, allowing us to be reconciled to Him.
Prosperity
In Scripture, prosperity refers to the blessings God promises to those who obey Him, including physical well-being, peace, and spiritual abundance.
Protector
In Scripture, a protector is someone who safeguards others from harm, often reflecting God's care for His people.
Proto-gospel
The proto-gospel is the first gospel promise in Scripture, where God announces redemption through Christ even in the shadow of humanity's fall.
Provision
In Scripture, provision refers to God’s faithful supply of His people’s needs, reflecting His character as a caring Father.
Public Reading
Public reading in Scripture refers to the communal proclamation of God's Word, making it accessible and understandable to all.
Purifying the Heart
Purifying the heart refers to God’s work of cleansing a person’s inner being from sin and renewing it with His Spirit.
Pursuit of Justice
The pursuit of justice in Scripture means actively working to uphold fairness, righteousness, and God’s moral order in our communities.
Quarantine
In the Bible, quarantine refers to the practice of separating individuals or communities to maintain holiness and prevent the spread of impurity.
Reconciling Reign
The concept of a reconciling reign describes God's rule over creation as one that actively restores broken relationships between humanity and Himself.
Redemption
Redemption is God's act of saving us from sin and its consequences through Jesus Christ.
Redemptive Character
Redemptive character refers to God’s nature to rescue, restore, and renew what is broken.
Redemptive Delay
Redemptive delay refers to the idea that God’s plan of redemption unfolds over time rather than being fulfilled immediately.
Redemptive Mission
Redemptive mission refers to God's plan to save humanity from sin through Jesus Christ.
Redemptive Promises
Redemptive promises are God’s unbreakable assurances of salvation, restoration, and love for His people.
Redemptive Purposes
Redemptive purposes refer to God’s overarching plan to restore creation through Jesus Christ, turning brokenness into wholeness.
Reform
In the Bible, reform means turning away from sin and aligning with God's will through repentance and action.
Reign in Life
Reign in life refers to the believer's share in Christ's victory over sin and death, granting them spiritual authority and eternal hope.
Relational Capacity
Relational capacity refers to the ability to engage in meaningful, God-honoring relationships - both with others and with God.
Relational Harmony
Relational harmony is the practice of maintaining unity, peace, and mutual respect in relationships - especially within the Christian community.
Relational Intimacy
Relational intimacy in Scripture describes the close, loving bond between God and His people, and among believers.
Relational Love
Relational love is the kind of love that connects people in meaningful, selfless ways, reflecting God's own nature.
Relief
In Scripture, relief refers to the comfort and deliverance God provides to His people in times of trouble.
Religious Convictions
Religious convictions are the deep, unwavering beliefs that shape how we live as followers of God.
Religious Legalism
Religious legalism is the idea of prioritizing strict rules and rituals over the heart of God’s teachings.
Remnant
The biblical concept of 'remnant' refers to a small, faithful group of people God preserves through judgment and hardship.
Renewed Faith
Renewed Faith means allowing God to transform our minds and lives to align with His will, as seen in Romans 12:2 which calls us to be 'transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Repentance
Repentance means turning away from sin and toward God, embracing a heart change that aligns with His will.
Resilience
Resilience in the Bible means trusting God’s purpose even when life is hard.
Rest
Rest in the Bible refers to a spiritual state of peace and trust in God, not physical relaxation.
Rest in Christ
Rest in Christ means trusting God’s finished work through Jesus rather than relying on our own efforts to earn favor or peace.
Restoration
Restoration in the Bible refers to God’s work of renewing what sin has broken - relationships, purpose, and creation.
Restoration of All Things
The restoration of all things refers to God's promise to renew and perfect creation, as seen in Acts 3:21, where it is described as 'the time when God, after He has restored all things, will send Jesus.
Restorative Justice
Restorative justice in the Bible seeks to make things right through forgiveness and reconciliation, emphasizing healing relationships over punishment.
Resurrection
Resurrection is the bodily raising of the dead to eternal life, a cornerstone of Christian belief that affirms God's power over death.
Resurrection Life
Resurrection Life refers to the spiritual reality of living in victory over death through faith in Jesus Christ.
Resurrection of the Righteous
The resurrection of the righteous refers to God’s promise to raise faithful believers to eternal life after death.
Retribution Theology
Retribution Theology is the belief that God will fairly reward good actions and punish evil ones, reflecting His perfect justice.
Retributive Justice
Retributive justice means receiving what our actions deserve - good or bad.
Reverence
Reverence is deep respect and awe toward God, recognizing His holiness and authority.
Reverent Awe
Reverent awe is a deep sense of reverence and fear toward God, recognizing His holiness and power.
Revival
Revival is a spiritual awakening where God renews His people's hearts and passion for Him.
Righteous Judgment
Righteous judgment is God’s fair and holy way of ruling over all things, reflecting His character of justice and love.
Righteous Suffer
Righteous suffering refers to the pain or hardship experienced by those who live faithfully for God, often because of their commitment to Christ.
Righteousness
Righteousness is being right with God, living according to His standards of holiness and justice.
Ritual Washing
Ritual washing in the Bible was a symbolic act of cleansing, often performed to remove ceremonial impurity and prepare for worship.
Roman Influence
Roman influence in Scripture refers to the political, cultural, and religious power of the Roman Empire during Jesus' time.
Royal Priesthood
The term 'royal priesthood' describes believers as both kings and priests in God’s kingdom, a privilege rooted in Exodus 19:6 and expanded in the New Testament.
Sabbath
The Sabbath is a sacred day of rest and worship, rooted in God’s command to honor His creation by setting aside time for spiritual renewal and community.
Sabbath Principle of Rest
The Sabbath principle of rest is a divine command to set aside time for rest and renewal, modeled after God’s own rhythm of work and rest in creation.
Sabbatical Year
The sabbatical year, commanded in the Old Testament, was a year of rest for the land and its people every seven years.
Sacred Gift
A sacred gift in Scripture is an offering set apart for God, symbolizing holiness and devotion.
Sacred Obligation
Sacred obligation refers to the heartfelt commitment to obey God’s commands because of love and reverence for Him.
Sacred Promises
Sacred promises are God’s unwavering commitments to humanity, revealing His faithfulness and reliability.
Sacred Value
Sacred value refers to things God considers holy, precious, and central to His plan for humanity.
Sacrifice
In Scripture, sacrifice means giving something valuable to God as an act of devotion or atonement.
Sacrificial Offerings
Sacrificial offerings in the Bible were gifts given to God, often involving animals, to express devotion, seek forgiveness, or restore relationship with Him.
Safe Refuge
In Scripture, 'safe refuge' describes the security and protection believers find in God, especially during times of trouble.
Safety
In Scripture, 'safety' refers to the security and protection God provides to those who trust in Him.
Salt of the Covenant
In the Bible, the phrase 'salt of the covenant' refers to the symbolic use of salt in sacrifices, representing permanence, purity, and the unbreakable nature of God's promises.
Salvation
Salvation is God's rescue plan for humanity, offering forgiveness of sins and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
Salvation Belongs to God
The phrase 'salvation belongs to the Lord' (Jonah 2:9) reminds us that only God can rescue and restore humanity.
Salvation History
Salvation history is the story of how God works through time to rescue humanity from sin and restore His relationship with us.
Salvific Plan
The salvific plan is God’s eternal strategy to save humanity from sin through Jesus Christ.
Sanctification
Sanctification is the process by which believers are made holy and set apart for God’s purposes, rooted in the work of the Holy Spirit.
Sanctity
Sanctity means being set apart for God and living in a way that reflects His holiness.
Satisfaction
In Christian theology, 'satisfaction' refers to the deep, enduring contentment found in God rather than in worldly things.
Saving Grace
Saving grace is God’s unmerited favor that rescues us from sin and grants eternal life.
Saving Knowledge
Saving knowledge is more than knowing facts about God. It is a deep, life-transforming awareness of Jesus Christ that leads to salvation.
Science and Faith
Science and faith explore how understanding God’s creation deepens trust in Him.
Second Death
The 'second death' in Scripture refers to eternal separation from God, a final and irreversible destiny for those who reject Christ.
Security
In Scripture, security refers to the unshakable assurance of God's protection and presence in our lives.
Seed of the Woman
The 'seed of the woman' is a foundational biblical concept first introduced in Genesis 3:15, where God promises a future descendant of Eve who will crush the power of sin and death.
Self-deification
Self-deification is the dangerous act of elevating oneself to the level of God, rejecting divine authority and truth.
Self-existence
Self-existence means God exists independently, without relying on anything else.
Self-love
Self-love in Scripture isn’t about selfishness but caring for yourself as God’s creation.
Selfless Leadership
Selfless leadership means guiding others by prioritizing their needs over our own, following Jesus' example.
Servant of the Lord
The Servant of the LORD is a central figure in Scripture, often pointing to Jesus, who humbly obeyed God to save humanity.
Seven Spirits of God
The seven spirits of God represent the fullness and diversity of the Holy Spirit’s work, often symbolizing completeness and divine authority in Scripture.
Seventh Day
The seventh day in Scripture symbolizes rest and God's completed work of creation.
Sexual Immorality
Sexual immorality refers to actions or behaviors that violate God’s design for purity, faithfulness, and healthy relationships.
Shame
Shame, in a biblical sense, is the deep sorrow or humiliation felt when we fall short of God's standards.
Simple Gifts
In the Bible, 'simple gifts' refers to offerings given with sincerity and humility, not measured by their size but by the selflessness behind them.
Sin
In the Bible, sin means falling short of God’s holy standards - like missing a target we can’t even see.
Sin Against God
Sin against God means breaking His commands and hurting our relationship with Him.
Sin of the World
The 'sin of the world' refers to the universal need for Jesus’ sacrifice to forgive all humanity’s sin, past and present.
Sin's Curse
Sin’s curse is the penalty or consequence that comes from breaking God’s holy standards.
Sin's Dominion
Sin's dominion refers to the power and control that sin exerts over individuals before they are set free by faith in Christ.
Sinful Flesh
The term 'sinful flesh' refers to the inherent human tendency toward sin that remains even in believers, causing a struggle between our desires and God's will.
Sinful Nature
The sinful nature refers to the inborn tendency in humans to act selfishly and contrary to God’s will, a result of the Fall.
Sins
In the Bible, sin refers to any thought, word, or action that separates us from God and goes against His holy standards.
Six-day Creation
The six-day creation refers to the biblical account of God creating the world in six literal 24-hour days, as described in Genesis.
Skepticism
Skepticism in Scripture refers to doubt or questioning that challenges faith and truth claims.
Slander
Slander is harmful speech that spreads false or damaging information about someone, often with the intent to harm their reputation.
Social Injustice
Social injustice happens when people are treated unfairly or denied basic rights, often by those in power.
Social or Financial Status
In Scripture, social or financial status refers to a person's position in society or their economic condition, which often influences relationships and responsibilities.
Sovereign Architect
The term 'sovereign architect' describes God as the ultimate Designer and Creator of all things, showing His complete authority and purpose in building and sustaining the universe.
Sovereign Choice
Sovereign choice means God freely decides how to act, especially in choosing whom to show mercy or use for His purposes.
Sovereign Fulfillment
Sovereign fulfillment means God’s promises always come true in His perfect timing and way.
Sovereign Redemptive Work
Sovereign redemptive work refers to God's plan to rescue humanity from sin through Jesus Christ, acting by His own power and purpose.
Special Revelation
Special Revelation is how God reveals Himself in specific, personal ways—most fully through Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Adultery
Spiritual adultery refers to the unfaithfulness of individuals or communities to God by turning to false gods, worldly pursuits, or self-centered desires.
Spiritual Ancestors
In Scripture, spiritual ancestors refer to faithful figures like Abraham and Sarah whose lives of trust in God set an example for future generations.
Spiritual Apathy
Spiritual apathy is the lack of passion, interest, or zeal for God and His purposes, often manifesting as indifference to spiritual truth and growth.
Spiritual Arrogance
Spiritual arrogance is an overconfidence in one's spiritual status that leads to pride and self-reliance rather than dependence on God.
Spiritual Battles
Spiritual battles refer to the unseen conflict between believers and evil forces that Christians face in their walk with God.
Spiritual Consequences
Spiritual consequences are the outcomes that follow our choices in a spiritual context, either drawing us closer to God or leading us away from Him.
Spiritual Death
Spiritual death refers to the separation from God that results from sin, a condition the Bible describes as a fundamental consequence of turning away from Him.
Spiritual Deception
Spiritual deception occurs when people are misled in their spiritual beliefs, often by false teachings or counterfeit experiences.
Spiritual Dependence
Spiritual dependence means trusting God's strength and grace instead of our own efforts.
Spiritual Discernment
Spiritual discernment is the ability to recognize and understand spiritual truths, especially as guided by the Holy Spirit.
Spiritual Fear
Spiritual fear is a deep reverence and awe for God's holiness, power, and authority, rooted in trust and obedience.
Spiritual Forces
Spiritual forces refer to the invisible, powerful beings - both good and evil - that influence the world and human lives, as described in Scripture.
Spiritual Fruit
Spiritual fruit refers to the godly qualities produced in a believer’s life by the Holy Spirit.
Spiritual Ideal
A spiritual ideal is the God-centered way of living that reflects His character and purposes.
Spiritual Ignorance
Spiritual ignorance refers to the willful rejection of God’s truth, leading to a hardened heart and resistance to His guidance.
Spiritual Inheritance
Spiritual inheritance refers to the eternal blessings and promises God gives to believers through Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Insight
Spiritual insight is the ability to understand and discern God’s truths through the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Spiritual Leader
A spiritual leader is someone God calls to guide others in faith, offering wisdom and accountability.
Spiritual Legacy
Spiritual legacy refers to the passing down of faith, values, and godly practices from one generation to the next.
Spiritual Nourishment
Spiritual nourishment means feeding our souls with God’s Word, prayer, and a growing relationship with Him.
Spiritual Orientation
Spiritual orientation is about where our hearts and minds are focused in life - specifically, whether they are aligned with God’s will and truth.
Spiritual Prostitution
Spiritual prostitution refers to the unfaithfulness of God's people by turning to false gods or worldly values instead of trusting and obeying Him.
Spiritual Rest
Spiritual rest is the deep peace and trust believers find in God, free from the burden of self-effort.
Spiritual Revelation
Spiritual revelation is the divine unveiling of God’s truths through the Holy Spirit, helping believers grasp His will and purpose.
Spiritual Sacrifices
In Scripture, spiritual sacrifices refer to the non-material offerings believers present to God through faith, obedience, and worship.
Spiritual Separation
Spiritual separation is the idea of being set apart for God, living in a way that reflects His holiness and distinctness from the world.
Spiritual Stability
Spiritual stability is about staying rooted in faith, even when life's storms shake our foundations.
Spiritual Status
Spiritual status refers to our standing before God, determined not by our actions but by faith in Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Truths
Spiritual truths are the deep realities revealed by God's Spirit, helping believers understand His character and will.
Spiritual Unity
Spiritual unity is the bond that connects believers in Christ, reflecting God's own oneness and love for His people.
Spiritual Urgency
Spiritual urgency is the call to respond to God's grace and truth without delay, recognizing that His timing is critical for salvation and obedience.
Steadfast Faith
Steadfast faith is the unwavering trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem impossible.
Steadfast Love
Steadfast love is God's unchanging, faithful commitment to His people, even when they fail.
Stewards of Creation
The concept of stewards of creation means humans are called by God to care for the Earth and all living things.
Stewardship
Stewardship means managing the gifts God gives us - like time, talents, and resources - with care and purpose.
Storge
Storge is a Greek word for the deep, natural love we feel for family - like the bond between parents and children or close relatives.
Suffering
Suffering, in a biblical sense, refers to the pain and hardship humans experience due to sin and brokenness.
Supernatural Protection
Supernatural protection refers to God's divine safeguarding of His people from harm, both physically and spiritually.
Surrender
Surrender in the Bible means giving up our control and trusting God completely.
Tangible Actions
Tangible actions are visible, practical expressions of faith that demonstrate spiritual truths through physical deeds.
Teachings
In the Bible, teachings refer to the core messages and instructions God gives to guide believers in living according to His will.
Temporal Certainties
Temporal certainties are things that seem lasting but eventually fade away.
Temptation
Temptation is the act of being lured away from God’s will by desires, pride, or the enemy’s schemes.
Tenacious Faith
Tenacious faith is the kind of unwavering belief that clings to God even when challenges arise, trusting His promises despite difficult circumstances.
Testing God
Testing God refers to putting His character, promises, or presence to the test - often through doubt, demands for proof, or questioning His faithfulness.
The Church
The Church is not just a building or organization; it is the community of all believers united under Christ, described in Scripture as His body (Ephesians 1:22-23).
The Church As Covenant Community
The Church as Covenant Community describes believers united by their shared commitment to follow Christ and live in fellowship.
The Cross
The cross represents the moment when Jesus willingly gave his life to take away our sins, showing God’s love and power to save.
The Law (mosaic)
The Mosaic Law is the covenant God gave to Israel through Moses on Mount Sinai, containing commandments like the Ten Commandments.
Theocentric Reality
Theocentric reality means that God is the center of all existence, and everything revolves around His will, purpose, and glory.
Theodicy
Theodicy is the study of how a good, all-powerful God can allow suffering in the world.
Theological Connections
Theological connections are the links between Bible passages that show how God’s plan unfolds across Scripture, revealing a unified message of redemption.
Theological Function
Theological function refers to how God's roles, purposes, and actions are expressed and fulfilled in Scripture.
Theological Truth
Theological truth refers to the core beliefs and realities revealed in Scripture about God, His character, and His relationship with humanity.
Theology of Grace
The theology of grace is the belief that God's love and salvation are freely given, not earned by human effort.
Tithe
Tithe means giving a tenth of your income or produce to God as an act of worship and trust.
Tithing
Tithing means giving a tenth of your income to God as an act of trust and worship.
Toil
Toil refers to hard, often burdensome labor, and in Scripture, it highlights the tension between human effort and divine purpose.
Transactional Faith
Transactional faith is when people treat their relationship with God like a business deal - expecting rewards for good behavior while neglecting true trust and obedience.
Transactional View of God
The transactional view of God describes how Scripture often portrays God as entering into reciprocal relationships with humanity, where giving and receiving are central.
Transcendent Power
Transcendent power refers to God's mighty strength that goes beyond human understanding, central to His work in creation and salvation.
Transformed Character
Transformed character refers to the inner change God brings to believers as they grow in faith, guided by Scripture and the Holy Spirit.
Transformed Lives
Transformed lives refer to the radical change in a believer's life through the power of Christ, turning away from sin and toward God's purposes.
Transgression
Transgression refers to willfully breaking God’s laws, often with a focus on the personal and relational impact of sin.
Transubstantiation
Transubstantiation refers to the belief that during communion, the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ, a concept rooted in His words at the Last Supper.
Treachery of Nations
The treachery of nations refers to the united opposition of human rulers and powers against God’s will and His chosen leaders, as seen in Scripture.
Treason
In Scripture, treason refers to betrayal against God or the breaking of sacred trust, often with severe spiritual consequences.
Treasured Possession
The biblical concept of 'treasured possession' describes God's special love and ownership over His people, rooted in Exodus 19:5, where He calls Israel 'a kingdom of priests and a holy nation' as His treasured possession.
Tribal System
The biblical tribal system refers to the organization of the Israelites into 12 distinct tribes, each descended from Jacob’s sons.
Tribalism
Tribalism refers to the loyalty and identity tied to a specific group, often leading to division or exclusion of others.
Trinitarian Formulations
Trinitarian formulations describe the Christian belief in one God who exists as three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Trinitarian Theology
Trinitarian theology is the Christian belief in one God who exists as three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
Trinity
The Trinity is the Christian belief that God exists as three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - in one divine essence.
Trust
Trust, in Scripture, means relying fully on God’s faithfulness and guidance.
Twelve Tribes of Israel
The twelve tribes of Israel are the twelve sons of Jacob, whose descendants formed the nation of Israel.
Typological Foundation
A typological foundation in Scripture refers to how people, events, and rituals in the Old Testament point forward to Jesus Christ and His work on the cross.
Typological Fulfillment
Typological fulfillment is when events or figures in the Old Testament preview and point toward truths revealed in the New Testament, especially about Jesus.
Ultimate Foundation of Truth
The ultimate foundation of truth in Scripture is Jesus Christ, who declares in John 14:6, 'I am the way and the truth and the life.
Ultimate Judge
The concept of 'ultimate judge' refers to God's role in Scripture as the one who will fairly and finally judge all humanity.
Ultimate Truth
Ultimate truth in Scripture refers to the unchanging, foundational reality centered in God and His Word.
Unchanging Nature
The unchanging nature of God means He is consistent and reliable through all time, never altering His character or promises.
Unclean (ritual)
In the Bible, ritual uncleanness refers to a temporary state of being excluded from religious activities due to specific physical or spiritual conditions.
Unclean Spirits
Unclean spirits are malevolent spiritual forces that oppose God and His people, often associated with evil, deception, or destructive behavior in Scripture.
Uncleanness
In the Bible, uncleanness refers to a state of being that separates people from God’s holy presence, often through sin or ritual impurity.
Unconditional Calling
Unconditional calling means God chooses people for salvation not based on their actions but by His grace.
Unexpected Redemption
Unexpected redemption is God's surprising and gracious act of saving people who do not deserve it.
Ungodliness
Ungodliness means living in a way that opposes God’s character and commands.
Unintentional Killing
Unintentional killing refers to causing someone’s death without premeditation or malice, as outlined in biblical law.
Unintentional Sins
Unintentional sins are mistakes or lapses in judgment that occur without deliberate intent to disobey God.
Union With Christ
Union with Christ means being spiritually joined to Jesus through faith, sharing in His death, resurrection, and eternal life.
Unity
Unity in Scripture refers to believers living in harmony, reflecting the oneness of God and Christ.
Universal Blessing
The concept of universal blessing in Scripture refers to God's promise to extend His favor and salvation to all people.
Universality of Sin
The universality of sin means that every person, without exception, has sinned and fallen short of God’s holy standards.
Unmerited Favor
Unmerited favor is God’s kindness shown to us even when we don’t deserve it.
Unmerited Grace
Unmerited grace is God’s kindness and favor given to people even when they don’t deserve it.
Unsearchable Wisdom
Unsearchable wisdom means God's infinite understanding that exceeds human comprehension.
Unstoppable Force
In Scripture, the unstoppable force refers to God’s divine power that cannot be resisted or hindered.
Unwavering Faithfulness
Unwavering faithfulness is God's unchanging loyalty and trustworthiness toward His people, even when they fail.
Vanity
In the Bible, vanity refers to emptiness or futility - things that seem important but lack lasting value.
Vengeance
Vengeance is the act of taking justice into our own hands, but Scripture teaches that true justice belongs to God alone.
Victory
In Scripture, victory means more than winning battles. It is achieved through God's strength in every area of life.
Vow
A vow in Scripture is a solemn promise made to God, often with deep spiritual significance.
Vulnerable
In Scripture, being vulnerable means being open to others' needs, reflecting God's heart for the weak and marginalized.
Walked With God
To 'walk with God' means living in close, ongoing fellowship with Him, aligning our lives with His will.
Walks Blamelessly
To 'walk blamelessly' means living in alignment with God's righteous standards, free from intentional wrongdoing.
Wealth
Wealth, in a biblical sense, refers not to material possessions alone but to the responsible management of resources under God's authority.
Wickedness
Wickedness refers to moral evil or rebellion against God, often linked to actions that defy His character and commandments.
Word Became Flesh
The phrase 'Word became flesh' means that Jesus Christ, who is God, took on a human body to live among people.
Works
In Christian theology, 'works' refers to human actions or deeds, especially those done to earn favor with God.
Worship
Worship is the act of honoring and reverencing God with our hearts, minds, and actions.
Young Church
The term 'young church' refers to the early Christian community, especially as depicted in the Book of Acts.
Younger Son
The term 'younger son' often refers to the prodigal son in Jesus' parable (Luke 15:11-32), a story about repentance, grace, and reconciliation.