tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79003310966678078532024-03-03T14:50:47.090-06:00Greek Word StudiesThese 100 Greek words are from bulletin "inserts" I made for our church. I pray they are an encouragement to you. Unless specified in individual places, the NASB translation is quoted. The information in these studies was drawn from a sizable list of commentaries, dictionaries, and Bible scholars.
You may want to CHECK OUT ONE OTHER ONGOING CHRISTIAN BLOG: www.GladnessInYourPresence.blogspot.com Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-63352841619795461132007-04-05T07:49:00.007-06:002007-04-05T08:25:38.512-06:00AboveGreek Word Pronunciation: AN-oh-then<br />Strong’s Number: 509<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 540<br />Key Verse: “… unless one is <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">born again</span></em></strong>, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” -- John 3:3<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Anothen</span></strong> is an adverb. The primary meaning is “from above.” In the New Testament, the word appears 13 times, with the primary meaning obvious in most of them.<br /><br />In Matthew 27:51 (Mark 15:38), “the veil of the temple was torn in two from <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">top</span></em></strong> to bottom.” This was an object lesson to the Aaronic priesthood that a new priest had arisen. In Luke 1:3, he began by telling his readers that he had “investigated everything carefully from the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">beginning</span></em></strong>.” In John 3:31, “He who comes from <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">above</span></em></strong> is above all.” Christ had a “being” before His conception, a heavenly being. In John 19:11, Jesus told Pilate, “you have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">above</span></em></strong>.” Jesus makes God the source of all real authority. In John 19:23, after His crucifixion, when the soldiers divided His garments, “the tunic was seamless, woven in <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">one piece</span></em></strong>” [literally, “woven <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">from the top</span></em></strong> through the whole”]. In Acts 26:5, Paul told Agrippa, that the Jews “have known about me for a <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">long time</span></em></strong>” [literally, from the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">beginning</span></em></strong>] of his public education in Jerusalem. In James 1:17, 3:15, and 3:17, there are three references to good things and wisdom coming “from <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">above</span></em></strong>.”<br /><br />There are two instances where the word <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">anothen</span></strong> is translated as “again.” [<strong>Note</strong>: In Galatians 4:9, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">anothen</span></strong> is to be compared with the Greek word <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">palin</span></strong>, which is the usual word for “again,” in the sense of “repeated action.”] In this instance, Paul is referring to the elemental things of the world, “... you desire to be enslaved <em>all over</em> (<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">palin</span></strong>) <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">again</span></em></strong> (<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">anothen</span></strong>). The Greek text reads literally as: “... <em>again</em> you want to serve as slaves <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">anew</span></em></strong>…”<br /><br />The second instance is in <strong>JOHN 3:3</strong> and 7, where Jesus is teaching Nicodemus that “unless one is born <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">again</span></em></strong> (<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">anothen</span></strong>), he cannot see the kingdom of God.” To be born <em><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">again</span></strong></em> is to be born from <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">above</span></em></strong>, of the Spirit, verses 5-8. We are born naturally into the kingdom of nature, to live the natural life; if we enter the kingdom of heaven, the kingdom of grace, it must be by a new birth.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-66677883233143861662007-04-05T07:49:00.006-06:002007-04-05T08:19:45.066-06:00AccessGreek Word Pronunciation: pros-ago-GAY<br />Strong’s Number: 4318<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 4643<br />Key Verse: “… through whom also we have obtained our <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">introduction</span></em></strong> by faith into this grace in which we stand …” -- Romans 5:2<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Prosagoge</span></strong> is a compound of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">pros</span></strong>, meaning “toward” or “facing,” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">ago</span></strong>, meaning “to lead, to bring.” It is literally “a leading or bringing into the presence of,” associated with freedom to enter through the assistance or favor of another. Thayer says this is a “<em>relationship with God whereby we are acceptable to Him and have assurance that He is favorably disposed towards us</em>.” It was the act of one who secures for another an interview with a sovereign.<br /><br />It is found in the Septuagint in Exodus 29:10 and several times in Leviticus in the sense of <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bringing</span></em></strong> or <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">offering</span></em></strong> an animal for sacrifice.<br /><br />This noun appears only three times in the New Testament. Ephesians 2:18, “we both have <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">access</span></em></strong> in one Spirit to the Father” indicates the privilege of being brought to or introduced to God. This involves the free access which we have to God through the Holy Spirit because of Christ’s merits.<br /><br />Ephesians 3:12, “we have boldness and confident <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">access</span></em></strong> through faith in Him,” tells us that our access to God’s throne denotes liberty granted by God because of our faith in Jesus Christ. Compared to the limited access to God in the Old Testament, the free access that we have now is certainly a reason to “exult in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:2).<br /><br />In the key verse, <strong>ROMANS 5:2</strong>, grace here is seen as a haven or harbor. In secular usage, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">prosagoge</span></strong> referred to a place for ships to land as they “approached” a harbor. Jesus brings the believer into full favor of God. Wuest says, “<em>God the Son provides the way into the Father's presence through the blood of His cross, God the Spirit conducts the saint in and presents him, and God the Father is the One into whose presence the believer is brought</em>.”Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-75220865669943328282007-04-05T07:49:00.005-06:002007-04-05T08:16:06.582-06:00AdornGreek Word Pronunciation: kos-MEH-oh<br />Strong’s Number: 2885<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 3175<br />Key Verse: “… so that they will <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">adorn</span></em></strong> the doctrine of God our Savior …” -- Titus 2:10<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Kosmeo</span></strong> is a verb that is generally translated as “adorn, garnish,” or “decorate.” From this root word comes the English word “cosmetic.” In ancient times, it was used of arranging jewels in a brooch, necklace, or ring in a way that best displayed the beauty of the gems. The verb appears 10 times in the New Testament.<br /><br />In Matthew 12:44 (and Luke 11:25), Jesus’ parable of the house being “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">put in order</span></em></strong>” is in reference to Israel not truly repenting and turning to Jesus. The nation would be no better off than a clean but empty house.<br /><br />Matthew 25:7 is Jesus’ parable of the virgins who “rose and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">trimmed</span></em></strong> their lamps.” The trimming is equivalent to making ready to meet the bridegroom.<br /><br />Matthew 23:29 spoke of the Pharisees who “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">adorn</span></em></strong> the monuments of the righteous.” Luke 21:5, Revelation 21:2 and 19, reference the temple and city as being <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">adorned</span></em></strong>.<br /><br />In 1 Peter 3:5, holy women used to “<span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>adorn</em></strong> </span>themselves,” as models of inner beauty to their husbands. In 1 Timothy 2:9, women are to “adorn themselves with proper clothing.” [<strong>Note</strong>: The word “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">proper</span></em></strong>” in this verse is the adjective form of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">kosmeo</span></strong>, and is used only here and in 1 Timothy 3:2, regarding the overseers being “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">respectable</span></em></strong>.”] John MacArthur says that “<em>a woman should arrange herself appropriately for worship service, which includes wearing clothing which reflects a properly-adorned chaste heart</em>.” We may be fundamental in our doctrine, and yet defeat the power of the Word by our inappropriate appearance.<br /><br />In our key verse, <strong>TITUS 2:10</strong>, the idea is that the excellent behavior of the bondslaves should be seen and make the doctrine of God attractive or beautiful to unbelievers. This exhortation applies to all believers. Paul drove home the fact that a believer’s behavior (God’s “jewels”) is to be in accord with sound doctrine.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-1209940784484961612007-04-05T07:49:00.004-06:002007-04-05T08:12:25.036-06:00AdvocateGreek Word Pronunciation: para-KLE-tos<br />Strong's Number: 3875<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 4156<br />Key Verse: “If anyone sins, we have an <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Advocate</span></em></strong> with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” -- 1 John 2:1<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Parakletos</span></strong> is a compound word, comprised of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">para</span></strong>, meaning “beside,” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">kaleo</span></strong>, meaning “to call.” The verb form, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">parakaleo</span></strong>, is very common, and means “to call one to aid,” as an advocate in a court; then “to exhort or entreat, to pray or implore,” and “to comfort or console.” One noun form, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">paraklesis</span></strong>, is translated as “consolation, encouragement, exhortation, or comfort” and is used for all three members of the Triune Godhead: 2 Corinthians 1:3, “God of all <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">comfort</span></em></strong>”; 2 Corinthians 1:5, “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">comfort</span></em></strong> abundant through Christ,” and Acts 9:31, “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">comfort</span></em></strong> of the Holy Spirit.”<br /><br />The other noun form, our word <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">parakletos</span></strong>, is used by Greek writers to denote an advocate in a court, as one who intercedes. It is used only 5 times in the New Testament, and 4 of these references are to the Holy Spirit. The NKJ translates it as “Helper,” the NIV as “Counselor,” and the NASB as “Comforter.” In John 14:16, the Father “shall give you another <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Comforter</span></em></strong>.” The Holy Spirit has now replaced Jesus’ physical presence, and He mediates God to believers. In John 14:26, Jesus promises that “the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Comforter</span></em></strong> ... shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said to you.” The apostles were to be led into all truth necessary both for themselves and the Church, in recording the truths necessary for its edification. They would be under the infallible guidance of the Holy Spirit. In John 15:26, Jesus said that “the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Comforter</span></em></strong> ... shall testify of Me.” The Spirit is not only an advocate, but a witness for Jesus Christ, presenting God’s truth to the world. In John 16:7, Jesus said that “if I go not away, the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Comforter</span></em></strong> will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.” The Spirit came into the world in a new and distinctive sense on the day of Pentecost.<br /><br />In <strong>1 JOHN 2:1</strong>, John wrote, “if any man sin, we have an <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Advocate</span></em></strong> with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” (NIV: “we have One who speaks to the Father <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">in our defense</span></em></strong>.”) The thought here is of a defense attorney who takes up the case of his client before a tribunal. Christ’s own personal righteousness is what uniquely suits Him for His role as a Christian’s Advocate after he sins. Herbert Lockyer says, “<em>We are blessed with two Divine Advocates, One within, One above. God's ears are open to our every plea presented on our behalf by the Advocate above, inspired by the Advocate below</em>.”Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-31320115493307483342007-04-05T07:49:00.003-06:002007-04-05T08:07:13.256-06:00AgreeGreek Word Pronunciation: sum-pho-NAY-oh<br />Strong’s Number: 4856<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 5244<br />Key Verse: “if two of you <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">agree</span></em></strong> on earth ... it shall be done for them.” -- Matthew 18:19<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Sumphoneo</span></strong> is a compound word of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">sun</span></strong>, “together,” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">phone</span></strong>, “a sound,” literally, “to sound together.” Therefore, it came to mean “harmonious sound” in regard to musical instruments, and then “to be in accord” or “to agree.” Our English word “symphony” is derived from this word.<br /><br />In the New Testament, the word occurs in its various forms a total of 9 times. 2 Corinthians 6:15 asks “what <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">harmony</span></em></strong> has Christ with Belial (Satan), or a believer with an unbeliever.” In Luke 15:25, the prodigal son knows there is festivity in his father’s house when he heard “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">music</span></em></strong>” (flute playing) and dancing. In Luke 5:36 regarding a piece of cloth from a new garment on an old garment, the piece from the new “will not <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">match</span></em></strong> the old.”<br /><br />Matthew 20:2 says, “when he <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">agreed</span></em></strong> with the laborers,” and 20:13, “did you not <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">agree</span></em></strong> with me for a denarius.” In 1 Corinthians 7:5, husbands and wives were not to deprive one another except by <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">agreement</span></em></strong>. Acts 5:9, Ananias and Sapphira “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">agreed</span></em></strong> together to put the Spirit of the Lord to the test.” They were in perfect agreement and equally guilty.<br /><br />Acts 15:15 states “the words of the prophets <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">agree</span></em></strong>.” The Jewish rabbis often failed to understand the prophets as Jesus Christ showed. James’ citing of the Amos 9:11,12 passage refers primarily to the restoration of the David empire, but also to the Messiah’s kingdom.<br /><br />In the key verse, <strong>MATTHEW 18:19</strong>, “if two of you <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">agree</span></em></strong> on earth ... it shall be done for them by My Father …,” God’s assent follows man’s agreement and is imparted as Jesus Christ is where two or three are gathered in His name (verse 20; into Christ as the common center of their desire and faith). Their united prayers will ascend, made mighty by the intercession of the Son of God. By His presence, it becomes His prayer.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-83911747763338597712007-04-05T07:49:00.002-06:002007-04-05T08:03:03.678-06:00AmenGreek Word Pronunciation: ah-MANE<br />Strong’s Number: 281<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 297<br />Key Verse: “The <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Amen</span></em></strong>, the faithful and true Witness …” -- Revelation 3:14<br /><br />This is an instance of a Hebrew word (<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aman</span></strong>) transliterated into Greek (<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">amen</span></strong>) and then transliterated into English (<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">amen</span></em></strong>). In Hebrew, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aman</span></strong> denotes firmness, dependability, certainty, and truth. In the Old Testament, it is a liturgical formula in which a congregation or individual accepts both the validity of an oath or curse and its consequences (Numbers 5:22; Jeremiah 11:5); also in response to a benediction (1 Chronicles 16:36; Nehemiah 8:6). Its connection with both blessings and cursings is sufficient explanation for the description of God as “the God of <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">truth</span></em></strong> (<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aman</span></strong>)” in Isaiah 65:16. In Genesis 15:6, “Abram <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">believed</span></em></strong> (<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aman</span></strong>) in the Lord.” Abram heard God’s promise and was caused to be certain about what God said. When uttered by God, aman meant, “It is and shall be so,” and when used by men, implied, “So let it be.”<br /><br />In the New Testament, the early Church associated the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Amen</span></em></strong> with prayers and thanksgivings, and also expressed the individual’s response to the divine (1 Corinthians 14:16; Ephesians 3:21; Revelation 22:20).<br /><br />Jesus had a unique habit of starting a sentence with an Amen instead of ending it. In John, it is always repeated, “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Amen, amen</span></em></strong>, I say to you …” That was a strong affirmation that what Jesus was about to say was certain and reliable and that what He taught must be considered binding on His hearers. It introduced a new revelation of the mind of God (Matthew 16:28). In <strong>REVELATION 3:14</strong>, “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Amen</span></em></strong>” is the title of Christ, because He is “faithful and true.” Through Him the purposes of God are established (2 Corinthians 1:20), signifying that He Himself is the fulfillment of all that God has spoken to the Church. The promises and truth of God are both secured. He revealed Himself as the Source of all certainty and truth. He spoke of what He knew and testified to what He had seen. He is and will remain humanity’s most trustworthy Witness.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-7325997416034516512007-04-05T07:49:00.001-06:002007-04-05T07:59:23.026-06:00ApprehendGreek Word Pronunciation: kata-lam-BA-no<br />Strong’s Number: 2638<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 2898<br />Key Verse: “I press on so that I may <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">lay hold</span></em></strong> of that for which also I was <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">laid hold</span></em></strong> of by Christ Jesus.” -- Philippians 3:12<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Katalambano</span></strong> is a compound verb, consisting of the root word <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">lambano</span></strong>, meaning “to grasp or seize,” combined with <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">kata</span></strong>, which strengthens the verb, giving it extra intensity. The basic meaning is “to lay hold of,” so as to possess as one’s own, to “appropriate.” The translations vary considerably, from “apprehend, attain, come, find, obtain, overtake, perceive, or take.”<br /><br />It appears 15 times in the New Testament. In Romans 9:30, the reference is that Gentiles “<strong><span style="color:#33cc00;"><em>attained</em></span></strong> righteousness.” In 1 Corinthians 9:24, Paul speaks of running that we may “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">win</span></em></strong> the prize.” The idea of “grasping” is obvious in Matthew 9:18 regarding a “spirit which <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">seizes</span></em></strong> him” and in John 8:3,4 regarding the woman “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">caught</span></em></strong> in adultery.” In John 1:5 and 12:35 are references to the contrast of the Light and the darkness that “did not <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">comprehend</span></em></strong> or <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">overtake</span></em></strong> …,” as well as 1 Thessalonians 5:4, that the “day would <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">overtake</span></em></strong> you like a thief.” The idea of “mental grasping” is apparent in Acts 4:13, 10:34, 25:25, and Ephesians 3:18 by use of the words “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">recognize, understand, found</span></em></strong>, and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">comprehend</span></em></strong>.”<br /><br />[<strong>Note</strong>: In Acts 10:34 (above), Romans 2:11, Ephesians 6:9, Colossians 3:25, and James 2:1, the word “partiality” or “personal favoritism” has a closer translation in the KJV as “respecter of persons.” That is because in the Greek, it is one compound word, consisting of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">prosopon</span></strong>, meaning “a face,” and the root of our study here, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">lambano</span></strong>, “to lay hold of,” thereby meaning “receiver of face.” The idea is of paying regard to one’s looks or circumstances rather than his character.]<br /><br />Paul uses this verb 3 times in <strong>PHILIPPIANS 3:12</strong> and 13, “I press on so that I may <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">lay hold</span></em></strong> of that for which also I was <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">laid hold</span></em></strong> of by Christ Jesus. ... I do not regard myself as having <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">laid</span></em></strong> <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">hold</span></em></strong> of it yet.” Paul wants to appropriate and make his own that for which Christ caught Paul and made him His own. It was Christlikeness that Paul was pursuing.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-21861334045704639322007-04-05T07:49:00.000-06:002007-04-05T07:53:47.615-06:00ArmourGreek Word Pronunciation: pan-op-LI-ah<br />Strong’s Number: 3833<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 4110<br />Key Verse: “Put on the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">full armour</span></em></strong> of God.” -- Ephesians 6:11<br /><br />Originally, the root of this word indicated a tool or implement of any kind, for ship’s tackling, cable, etc., then becoming used in the plural for “weapons of warfare.” The verbal form, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">hoplizo</span></strong>, appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 4:1, “since Christ suffered in the flesh, <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">arm</span></em></strong> yourselves also with the same purpose.” This phrase was a military metaphor in which believers are commanded to arm themselves with the same attitude Christ had toward suffering, knowing that God will ultimately be victorious.<br /><br />The noun form, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">hoplon</span></strong>, was a term used of heavily-armed troops, as against light-armed troops. The Christian needs the heaviest armour he can get to withstand the attacks from Satan. This noun appears six times: In John 18:3, it references Judas coming with “lanterns, torches, and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">weapons</span></em></strong>.” It is used twice in Romans 6:13 where Paul says “do not go on presenting members of your body as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">instruments</span></em></strong> of righteousness [and] unrighteousness.” In Romans 13:12, we are told to “put on the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">armour</span></em></strong> of light.” 2 Corinthians 6:7 also refers to “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">weapons</span></em></strong> of righteousness,” and 2 Corinthians 10:4 reminds us that “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">weapons</span></em></strong> of our warfare are not of the flesh.”<br /><br />Our word <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">panoplia</span></strong> is a compound of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">pas</span></strong> (“all”) and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">hoplon</span></strong> (“armour”), thus indicating complete, full armour. There was no opening anywhere to be given to Satan. This word is found three times. In Luke 11:22, the reference is to Jesus’ parable of Him taking away “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">all the armour</span></em></strong>” of Satan. The other two times are in <strong>EPHESIANS 6:11</strong> and 13, where Paul says to “put on” and “take up” the “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">full armour</span></em></strong> of God.” These are both commands and in a tense that indicates believers are to put on once, and keep the armour on, during the entire course of life. This armour is “of God.” It is prepared for us, but we must put it on. Every believer is a member of the “combat team.” We are armed with spiritual gifts and equipment, provided by God, to fight against the strategies of Satan.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-729733505961104252007-04-03T11:21:00.018-06:002007-04-03T12:53:31.069-06:00AssuranceGreek Word Pronunciation: hu-PO-sta-sis<br />Strong’s Number: 5287<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 5712<br />Key Verse: “Now faith is the <span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>assurance</em></strong> </span>of things hoped for …” -- Hebrews 11:1<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Hupostasis</span></strong> is a compound word, of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">hupo</span></strong>, “under,” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">histemi</span></strong>, “to stand,” therefore, “that which stands under.” The primary definition is “a substructure, what really exists under or out of sight, the essence of a matter in contrast to its appearance.” In the Septuagint, it is used 20 times to translate 12 different Hebrew words, but it primarily meant a “ground of hope,” and thus came to mean “confidence.”<br /><br />This noun appears 5 times in the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians 9:4 and 11:17, it is typically translated as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">confidence</span></em></strong>.<br /><br />In Hebrews 1:3, “exact representation of His <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">nature</span></em></strong> (person, being),” according to the definition “substructure,” Christ is the manifestation of Deity, the means by which we recognize the glory of God. The essential being of God is conceived as setting its distinctive stamp upon Christ, coming into definite and characteristic expression in His Person, so that the Son bears the exact impress of the Divine nature and character.<br /><br />In Hebrews 3:14, the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">assurance</span></em></strong> is the believing confidence with which we begin our Christian life. In <strong>HEBREWS 11:1</strong>, it is the firm grasp of faith on unseen fact. <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Hupostasis</span></strong> was common in the papyri in business documents as the basis or guarantee of transactions. Moulton & Milligan suggest the translation “faith is the <strong><em>title-deed</em></strong> of things hoped for.” The Holy Spirit-energized act of faith of a believer in Christ is the title deed which God puts in his hand, guaranteeing to him the possession of the thing for which he trusted Him. The act of exercising true faith as one leans on the resources of God is itself the evidence of the sure answer to our prayer or the unfailing source of the divine supply. It is God's guarantee in advance that we already possess the things asked for. Although they may still be in His hands, we may be certain that our God will honor this title deed at the right moment.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-54251811779495851752007-04-03T11:21:00.017-06:002007-04-03T12:50:24.102-06:00AttestGreek Word Pronunciation: apo-DEIK-numi<br />Strong’s Number: 584<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 617<br />Key Verse: “… Jesus the Nazarene, a man <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">attested</span></em></strong> to you by God …” -- Acts 2:22<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Apodeiknumi</span></strong> is a compound word, comprised of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">apo</span></strong>, meaning “forth,” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">deiknumi</span></strong>, meaning “to show.” Thus, its meaning is “expose to view, declare, approve, or prove.” In classical Greek, it is used of publishing a law; displaying treasure; or creating a king or military leader. This verb appears only 4 times in the New Testament, with a variety of translations.<br /><br />In Acts 25:7, the Jewish leaders made accusations against Paul which they could not <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">prove</span></em></strong>.<br /><br />In 2 Thessalonians 2:4, the reference is to the Antichrist “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">displaying</span></em></strong> himself as being God,” attempting to usurp God’s authority.<br /><br />In 1 Corinthians 4:9, Paul says, “God has <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">exhibited</span></em></strong> us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death because we have become a spectacle to the world.” The word is used for exhibiting gladiators in the arena of an amphitheater, or in a public festival where criminals were on their way to the arena, being the last in the rear march to the arena. Paul seems to say that God exhibited the apostles as a “grand finale.” The apostles followed the path of Christ’s humiliation. They lived out the message of the cross.<br /><br />This word was used in the papyri in the sense of proclaiming an appointment to public office. This usage can be seen in the key verse, <strong>ACTS 2:22</strong>. Jesus’ miracles were His divine credentials. God would not confer such power on an imposter. The fact that this verb is in perfect tense, indicating a past action with present results, testifies that Jesus was a Man marked out by God in the past, with the present result of God's proclamation of Him as Messiah.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-57642098479197373532007-04-03T11:21:00.016-06:002007-04-03T12:47:52.798-06:00AuthorGreek Word Pronunciation: ar-keh-GOS<br />Strong's Number: 747<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 795<br />Key Verse: “... fixing our eyes on Jesus, the <span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>author</em></strong> </span>and perfecter of faith …” -- Hebrews 12:2<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Archegos</span></strong> is based on the noun, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">arche</span></strong>, meaning “beginning,” and it primarily signifies “one who takes a lead in, or provides the first occasion of, anything.” In the Septuagint, it is found in Numbers 13:2 of the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">leader</span></em></strong> of a tribe or family. In Numbers 14:4, the people wanted to appoint a <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">leader</span></em></strong> to return to Egypt.<br /><br />[<strong>Note</strong>: In Hebrews 5:9, in the KJV and NKJV, Christ is called the “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">author</span></em></strong> of eternal salvation to those who obey Him.” (The NASB and NIV translate <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">source</span></em></strong>.) The word used here is <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aitios</span></strong>, an adjective denoting “that which causes something.” Christ is the concrete and active <em><strong>cause</strong></em> of our salvation. In contrast, our word <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">archegos</span></strong> refers to being a leader, or a pioneer.]<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Archegos</span></strong> is found 4 times in the New Testament, always referring to Christ. Acts 3:15 refers to putting “to death the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Prince</span></em></strong> of life (the NIV translates <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">author</span></em></strong>), the one whom God raised from the dead.” The irony is that the Author of life was killed, but He was raised to life. In Acts 5:31, God exalted Christ “as a <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Prince</span></em></strong> and Savior.” He is actually in the “exercise” of the office of a prince or a king, at the right hand of His Father. The title denotes that He has the dominion and power needed to give repentance and the pardon of sins.<br /><br />In Hebrews 2:10, Christ brought “many sons to glory, to perfect the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">author</span></em></strong> of their salvation through sufferings.” The KJV and NKJV both translate this as captain, which accentuates the fact that the Son, as a leader, precedes the saved on the path to glory.<br /><br />In the key verse, <strong>HEBREWS 12:2</strong>, we are to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">author</span></em></strong> and perfecter of faith.” Jesus “pioneered” the path of faith Christians should follow. A leader goes before those whom he leads. He is the guide along the way, he sustains and strengthens them, he subdues opposing forces, he suffers with them, he comforts them, and he takes them through to the end. Such a Leader is Jesus, the author of faith.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-33920206185657869182007-04-03T11:21:00.015-06:002007-04-03T12:42:40.746-06:00BearGreek Word Pronunciation: STAY-go<br />Strong's Number: 4722<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 5095<br />Key Verse: “love … <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bears</span></em></strong> all things …” -- 1 Corinthians 13:7<br /><br />The New Testament uses 13 other verbs that are translated “to bear.” They generally have the idea of suffering or carrying a burden. The verb <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">stego</span></strong> comes from the noun <span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>stege</strong></span>, meaning “roof” (as in Mark 2:4). It means to protect or preserve by covering, to keep secret, thus to bear up against, or forbear. The verb appears only 4 times in the New Testament.<br /><br />In 1 Thessalonians 3:1 and 3:5, Paul’s inability to return to the Thessalonian Christians and find out about their faith caused him to say that he, Silas, and Timothy could “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">endure</span></em></strong> no longer.” [The KJV translates the word as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">forbear</span></em></strong>.] The Greek is literally applied to a watertight vessel. “When we could no longer <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">contain</span></em></strong> ourselves in our yearning desire for you.”<br /><br />In 1 Corinthians 9:12, Paul said that “we <span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>endure</em></strong> </span>all things.” [The NIV translates the word as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">put up with</span></em></strong>.] Paul relinquished his right to receive any support from those to whom he ministered. He desired to conceal any distress, to put up with anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel about Christ.<br /><br />In the key verse, <strong>1 CORINTHIANS 13:7</strong>, love “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bears</span></em></strong> all things, believes all things, hopes all things, <em><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">endures</span></strong></em> all things.” In this case, the word <em><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">endures</span></strong></em> is the Greek verb <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">hupomeno</span></strong>. It refers to perseverance, carrying on like a stout-hearted soldier. The word <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bears</span></em></strong> denotes endurance without divulging to the world personal distress. [The NIV translates these two words as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">always protects</span></em></strong> and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">always perseveres</span></em></strong>.] It is a grand and distinguishing property of love to cover and conceal the fault of another. Matthew Henry says, “<em>Though such a man be free to tell his brother his faults in private, he is very unwilling to expose him by making them public. Thus we do by our own faults, and thus charity would teach us to do by the faults of others; not publish them to their shame and reproach, but cover them from public notice as long as we can, and be faithful to God and to others</em>.”Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-14921450921770666792007-04-03T11:21:00.014-06:002007-04-03T12:36:06.612-06:00Bear FruitGreek Word Pronunciation: kar-po-fo-RAY-oh<br />Strong’s Number: 2592<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 2844<br />Key Verse: “… the gospel ... <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bearing fruit</span></em></strong> and increasing” -- Colossians 1:5,6<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Karpophoreo</span></strong> is a single word in Greek, literally meaning “fruitbearing.” It appears as a verb a total of 8 times in the New Testament.<br /><br />Matthew 13:23, Mark 4:20, and Luke 8:15 all speak of the good spiritual soil <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">producing</span></em></strong> a huge harvest.<br /><br />Mark 4:28 says “the soil <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">produces crops</span></em></strong> by itself,” speaking of gradual spiritual growth, leading to a harvest of spiritual maturity. The plant grows, as the seed spontaneously works according to its own nature. It is literally “self-moved.” It is the same with God’s Word growing in the good soil of the heart. It is all is the work of God.<br /><br />Romans 7:4, 5 points out the difference between <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bearing fruit</span></em></strong> for God, as believers, or <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bearing fruit</span></em></strong> to death, as unbelievers. The latter is a vivid picture of the seeds of sin working for death.<br /><br />Colossians 1:10 refers to believers actively and continually <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bearing fruit</span></em></strong> in every good work. This is one way in which we are to walk worthy of the Lord, so as to please Him.<br /><br /><strong>COLOSSIANS 1:5-6</strong>, speaks of the “gospel ... <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bearing fruit</span></em></strong> and <em>increasing</em>.” This verse is unique in that both verbs are in the middle voice in the Greek language. This points to the fruitfulness of the Gospel <em>by its own inherent power</em>, similar to Mark 4:28 referring to the earth bringing forth fruit of herself; it is self-generating. This can effectively be compared with Isaiah 55:10-11, “<em>As the rain comes from heaven, ... My word ... will not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent</em> <em>it</em>.” God has as distinct an intention in sending His Word as He has in sending down rain upon the earth. It never fails to produce the effect which He intends. The gospel is no more preached in vain than the rain falls in vain.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-70889740129943022422007-04-03T11:21:00.013-06:002007-04-03T12:32:07.548-06:00BondGreek Word Pronunciation: SUN-des-mos<br />Strong's Number: 4886<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 5278<br />Key Verse: “... put on love, which is the perfect <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bond</span></em></strong> of unity.” -- Colossians 3:14<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Sundesmos</span></strong>, as a noun, is a compound word comprised of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">sun</span></strong>, meaning “with” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">desmos</span></strong>, meaning “a band, fetter, anything for tying” and is used 4 times in the New Testament. The verb form is found only in Hebrews 13:3, to “remember the prisoners, as though <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">in prison</span></em></strong> with them” (literally, “as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">having been bound</span></em></strong> with them“).<br /><br />Act 8:23 speaks of the wicked behavior of Simon the Sorcerer who is “in the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bondage</span></em></strong> of iniquity.” It is expressing both the awfulness of his condition and the captivity to it in which he was held, alluding to the way the Romans secured their prisoners. He was bound over to the judgment of God by the guilt of sin, and bound under the dominion of Satan by the power of sin.<br /><br />Ephesians 4:3 speaks of “being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bond</span></em></strong> of peace.” Peace is the binding factor which will preserve the unity which the Spirit has produced. Peace functions as binding twine of unity. God gives it to us, producing equality and understanding.<br /><br />Colossians 2:19 is in reference to “the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">ligaments</span></em></strong> …” (KJV translates as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bands</span></em></strong>, and NIV as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">sinews</span></em></strong>.) Faith, love, and peace, are the spiritual bands connecting one member of the Body to another, allowing the Body to get nourishment and strength, and thus to grow. The Body of Christ can only grow when the believers are connected to one another under Christ.<br /><br />Finally, in <strong>COLOSSIANS 3:14</strong>, “... put on love, which is the perfect <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bond</span></em></strong> of unity.” Here, love is the “girdle” that holds the various garments, those graces and virtues which together make up perfection. Thayer comments, “<em>that in which all the virtues are so bound together that perfection is the result, and not one of them is wanting to that perfection</em>.”Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-65423195322247058782007-04-03T11:21:00.012-06:002007-04-03T12:28:42.019-06:00BuilderGreek Word Pronunciation: day-me-or-GOS<br />Strong’s Number: 1217<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 1321<br />Key Verse: “… city which has foundations, whose architect and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">builder</span></em></strong> is God” -- Hebrews 11:10<br /><br />Two verses in the New Testament refer to God as a “builder.”<br /><br />In Hebrews 3:3-4, “the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">builder</span></em></strong> of all things is God,” the word for “builder” is <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">kataskeuazo</span></strong>. This is a verb meaning “to prepare, establish, make ready, construct.” In this passage, it reads literally “the one <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">having built</span></em></strong> all things is God.” [This verb is also found in Matthew 11:10, “My messenger ... will <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">prepare</span></em></strong> your way“; in Luke 1:17, “make ready a people <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">prepared</span></em></strong> for the Lord”; in Hebrews 9:2 and 6, the reference is to a tabernacle being <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">prepared</span></em></strong>; and in Hebrews 11:7 and 1 Peter 3:20, regarding the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">preparation</span></em></strong> and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">construction</span></em></strong> of Noah's ark.]<br /><br />Christ is the Maker of the Old Testament Tabernacle. Moses was a minister in the house, he was instrumental under Christ in governing and edifying the house, but Christ is the Maker of all things, for He is God. Christ was the Planner and Builder of the Tabernacle. The building includes all the preparations of providence and grace needed to furnish it with “living stones” and fitting “servants.” Thus, Christ as the Founder, Establisher, and Instrumental Creator, is greater than the house so established.<br /><br />In <strong>HEBREWS 11:10</strong> (NASB), Abraham “was looking for the city which has foundations, whose <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">architect</span></em></strong> and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">builder</span></em></strong> is God.” [Note: The first word, <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">architect</span></em></strong>, is <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">teknitace</span></strong>, from which we get our word “technician” (NKJV translates <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">builder</span></em></strong>). It literally means “craftsman,” and is used so in Acts 19:24 and 38. It views God as moulding and fashioning the materials He wills into existence. The second word, <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">builder</span></em></strong>, is our key word, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">demiourgos</span></strong> (NKJV translates <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">maker</span></em></strong>). It is used only here in the New Testament. It is a compound word, comprised of the words “people” and “work,” thus meaning “one who works for the people.”] As the first word expresses His manifold wisdom, the infinite variety and beauty of His handiwork, so the second emphasizes the power of the Divine Creator. As the first brings out the artistic side of creation, so the second is recognized as the Maker of all things. God is represented as the Maker of all the heavenly inhabitants, and the planner of their citizenship in that heavenly country.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-48696740866618482292007-04-03T11:21:00.011-06:002007-04-03T12:21:39.540-06:00BurnGreek Word Pronunciation: pu-RA-oh<br />Strong’s Number: 4448<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 4792<br />Key Verse: “… extinguish all the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">flaming</span></em></strong> arrows of the evil one.” -- Ephesians 6:16<br /><br />Several synonyms exist meaning “to burn” or “set on fire.” The verb <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">puroo</span></strong> is found only in the passive voice in the New Testament, signifying “to be set on fire.” In 1 Corinthians 7:9, Paul says that “it is better to marry than to <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">burn</span></em></strong> with passion.” Marriage is better than being dominated by ongoing sexual passion, especially in the Corinthian society. 2 Corinthians 11:29 also uses this word metaphorically, when Paul expresses grief over those who are “led into sin without my <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">intense concern</span></em></strong>?” [The NKJ translates it as “… who is made to stumble, and I do not <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">burn</span></em></strong>?”] Anyone stumbling into sin causes him intense emotional pain; he is set on fire with grief. 2 Peter 3:12 refers to the day of God “of which the heavens will be destroyed by <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">burning</span></em></strong> …” Earth’s destruction will not be the result of any natural winding down of the universe, but the result of God’s sovereign will, occurring according to His plan.<br /><br />Revelation 1:15 speaks of Jesus’ feet “like burnished bronze, when it has been <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">made to glow</span></em></strong> in a furnace …” [KJV translates <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">burned</span></em></strong>, and NKJV, <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">refined</span></em></strong>.] Glowing hot, brass feet are reference to divine judgment. With feet of judgment, Jesus is moving through His church to exercise His chastening authority upon sin. In Revelation 3:18, Jesus tells the Laodicean church “to buy from Me gold <em><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>refined</strong> </span></em>by fire …” Sterling spiritual wealth is contrasted with its counterfeit, in which Laodicea boasted itself. Having bought this gold, she will be no longer poor.<br /><br /><strong>EPHESIANS 6:16</strong> references Satan’s <em><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>flaming</strong> </span></em>arrows against believers. Puroo is a participle here, in perfect tense, emphasizing the permanent and continuing force behind them. “The fiery darts” that were used in war were small, slender pieces of cane, which were filled with combustible materials, set on fire, and then shot against a foe. The object was to make the arrow fasten in the body, and increase the danger by the burning. The “fiery darts of the wicked” refers to the temptations of Satan, which he may throw into the mind of believers. These are blasphemous thoughts, unbelief, sudden temptation to do wrong, or thoughts that wound and torment the soul. The only way to meet them is by the “shield of faith,” by confidence in God, and by relying on His gracious promises and aid. If we have not faith in God, we are wholly defenseless. We should have a shield that we can turn in any direction, on which we may receive the arrow, and by which it may be put out.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-48480001254562877752007-04-03T11:21:00.010-06:002007-04-03T12:18:35.398-06:00CancelGreek Word Pronunciation: ex-ah-LAY-foh<br />Strong's Number: 1813<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 1981<br />Key Verse: “... having <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">canceled out</span></em></strong> the certificate of debt …” -- Colossians 2:14<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Exaleipho</span></strong> is a compound verb of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">ek</span></strong> (“out”) and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aleipho</span></strong> (“to wipe”). Thus, its literal meaning is “to wipe off completely, to obliterate, to smear, to cover.” It is found in the Septuagint in Isaiah 43:25; Psalm 51:1; Jeremiah 18:23; Exodus 32:32; and Deuteronomy 9:14, with reference to <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">blotting out</span></em></strong> people’s names or sins. In 2 Chronicles 29:4, it is used of <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">overlaying</span></em></strong> walls with gold, and Leviticus 14:42-48, it refers to <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">replastering</span></em></strong> a house. The background of this word lays with the fact that ancient documents were written on either papyrus or animal skins. Ancient ink was only able to lay on the surface of the paper and did not adhere to the paper the way modern ink does. Therefore, scribes could take a sponge and wipe the writing out to reuse the paper.<br /><br />In the New Testament, this verb appears only 5 times. The reference in Revelation 7:17 and 21:4 is to God and Christ, that they will “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">wipe away</span></em></strong> every tear” from the saints’ eyes. Revelation 3:5 says that God “will not erase” the believer’s name from the Book of life. The Book is a heavenly registry of those who accepted salvation in Christ. This “erasing” or “blotting out” alludes to Exodus 32:32 where God says He will blot out sinners, but not faithful ones like Moses, from His Book. Christ will make sure the believer’s name and works are not erased. Acts 3:19 says that “your sins may be <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">wiped away</span></em></strong>.” The expression “to blot out sins” occurs in Isaiah 43:25 and Psalm 51:1, and is taken from the practice of creditors charging their debtors, and when the debt is paid, cancelling it, or wholly removing the record. It is in this way that God forgives sins.<br /><br />In the key verse, <strong>COLOSSIANS 2:14</strong>, “having <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">canceled out</span></em></strong> the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us …,” the certificate was a handwritten certificate of debt by which a debtor acknowledged his indebtedness. Paul compares the new life we enjoy in Christ and the forgiveness of our sins with God’s act in Christ to wiping ink off the parchment, making our forgiveness complete. The binding word of Mosaic Law and the guilt that the law brings are both canceled in Christ. God banished the record of our sins so completely that not a trace remains.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-6360383611048647762007-04-03T11:21:00.009-06:002007-04-03T12:14:55.080-06:00CaptiveGreek Word Pronunciation: aich-malo-TID-zoh<br />Strong’s Number: 163<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 170<br />Key Verse: “… we are <em><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">taking</span></strong></em> every thought <span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>captive</em></strong> </span>to the obedience of Christ.” -- 2 Corinthians 10:5<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Aichmalotizo</span></strong> is a word that comes from <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aichme</span></strong>, “a spear,” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">halonai</span></strong>, “to be captured.” This verb is used only 4 times in the New Testament. The only verse in which this verb is used literally is found in Luke 21:24, when Jesus answered the disciples’ question about the time when the temple would be destroyed: “… and they will fall by the edge of the sword, and will be <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">led captive</span></em></strong> (NIV: <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">taken as prisoners</span></em></strong>) into all the nations.”<br /><br />In the sense of “captivating,” in 2 Timothy 3:6, Paul speaks of “those who enter into households and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">captivate</span></em></strong> (NIV: <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">gain control over</span></em></strong>) weak women weighed down with sins led on by various impulses.” The reference is to false teachers and their insinuating manners, practicing upon vulnerable and gullible women, who entertain them with great eagerness, and at last become partakers with them in their impurities.<br /><br />The remaining two verses use <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">aichmalotizo</span></strong> in terms of “bringing into subjection.” In Romans 7:23, Paul speaks of “waging war against the law of my mind and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">making</span></em></strong> me a <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">prisoner</span></em></strong> of the law of sin which is in my members.” Sin is constantly mounting a military “campaign” against the believer’s new nature, trying to gain control. But the triumph for us is through Christ.<br /><br />In the key verse, <strong>2 CORINTHIANS 10:5</strong>, Paul refers to “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">taking</span></em></strong> every thought <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">captive</span></em></strong> to the obedience of Christ.” The present tense indicates that this is something that is to be done by believers <em>continually</em>. All the plans of life should be controlled by the will of Christ, and formed and executed under His control, as captives are led by a conqueror. All the emotions and feelings of the heart should be controlled by Him, and led by Him as a captive is led by a victor. The strongholds of philosophy, paganism, and sin should be demolished, and all the opinions, plans, and purposes of the world should become subject to the all-conquering Redeemer.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-88935078823438748582007-04-03T11:21:00.008-06:002007-04-03T12:10:27.731-06:00Carry AwayGreek Word Pronunciation: sun-ah-PA-go<br />Strong’s Number: 4879<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 5270<br />Key Verse: “… not be haughty in mind, but <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">associate</span></em></strong> with the lowly.” -- Romans 12:16<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Sunapago</span></strong> is a compound word, comprised of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">sun</span></strong>, meaning “with” or “together” and <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">apago</span></strong>, meaning to “lead or carry away.” In the Septuagint, an example of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">sunapago</span></strong> is found is Exodus 14:6 with reference to the king of Egypt who “made his chariot ready and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">took</span></em></strong> his people with him.”<br /><br />In the New Testament, this word is found only 3 times, and it is used only in the passive voice. Galatians 2:13 speaks of Barnabas being <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">carried away</span></em></strong> by the hypocrisy of the Jewish believers in Antioch. Peter, Barnabas, and the other believers were confessing that they were one in Christ with the Gentiles, committed to the gospel of grace. Yet Barnabas was swept off his feet with the others when they denied the truth by their conduct.<br /><br />In 2 Peter 3:17, the warning is to “be on your guard so that you are not <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">carried away</span></em></strong> by the error of unprincipled men.” We are commanded to be constantly on guard so as not to be swept away from the correct doctrine of Christ. By keeping company with false teachers who distort Scripture, there is a danger in losing the secure position in the truth.<br /><br />In <strong>ROMANS 12:16</strong>, Paul commands us to “not be haughty in mind, but <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">associate</span></em></strong> with the lowly.” Paul is saying that we’re to be continually <em>borne away</em> by the current of our Christian sympathy <em>along with</em> those who are humble. Ordinary people, those of “low standard,” are identified as such only by the world’s standards. Christ thought they were worth dying for, and as such we’re to associate lovingly with them.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-30554900316790722822007-04-03T11:21:00.007-06:002007-04-03T12:07:10.967-06:00Carry, BearGreek Word Pronunciation: FE-ro<br />Strong’s Number: 5342<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 5770<br />Key Verse: “… no prophecy was made ... but man <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">carried along</span></em></strong> by the Holy Spirit” -- 2 Peter 1:21<br /><br />The most basic meaning of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">phero</span></strong> is “to bring, lead, to drive” of men, animals, and things. In the Septuagint, it was to bring all kinds of persons, things, but especially gifts brought as offerings or sacrifices to the temple, priests, or altar. In Genesis 4:3, it referred to the offerings of Cain and Abel. In Numbers 11:14, 17, and Deuteronomy 1:9, 12, Moses said, “I am not able to <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">bear</span></em></strong> all this people alone,” giving the idea of responsibility of the government or guidance of Israel.<br /><br />This word appears 66 times In the New Testament, and the special aspect of this word is in the persons and objects to which it refers. “To bring” is the most frequent meaning. It is used several times in Mark in regard to the sick and demon-possessed who are constantly <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">brought</span></em></strong> in great numbers to Jesus. In Mark 4:8, it refers to <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">yielding</span></em></strong> a crop; in John 20:27, to Thomas <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">reaching forth</span></em></strong> his hand to Jesus; and in Acts 12:10, to the gate as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">leading</span></em></strong> to a city.<br /><br />The most powerful use carries the idea of motion, as used in Hebrews 1:3, “He <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">upholds</span></em></strong> all things by the word of His power.” It implies sustaining, but also movement. It deals with a burden, not as a dead weight, but as in continual movement. It is concerned, not only with sustaining the weight of the universe, but also with maintaining its coherence and carrying on its development.<br /><br />This same idea of movement is found in Acts 2:2 of the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">rushing</span></em></strong> of a mighty wind. In Acts 27:15 and 17, it is used of a ship being <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">borne</span></em></strong> in a storm-tossed ship. Peter used this word 6 times in his epistles, twice in <strong>2 PETER 1:21</strong>: “no prophecy was <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">made</span></em></strong> [<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">borne</span></em></strong>] ... but man <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">moved</span></em></strong> [<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">being borne along</span></em></strong>] by the Holy Spirit.” This is perhaps the strongest statement in the New Testament regarding divine origin and authority of Old Testament scripture.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-79772534860035121702007-04-03T11:21:00.006-06:002007-04-03T12:02:17.011-06:00CastGreek Word Pronunciation: RHIP-to<br />Strong’s Number: 4496<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 4849<br />Key Verse: “… <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">casting</span></em></strong> all your anxiety on Him …” -- 1 Peter 5:7<br /><br />Two primary words are used in the New Testament that are translated as “cast” or “throw.” One is <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">ballo</span></strong>. It is the most common, being used 122 times. The other is <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">rhipto</span></strong>, which is to throw with a sudden motion, to jerk, to cast forth. It was used of any rapid movement, as in the throwing of a javelin or the rush of the wind. In its various forms, it is found only 13 times. In most verses, and most translations, the verb is translated as “cast, toss,” or “throw.” These appear in Matthew 27:5, Luke 4:35, Luke 17:2, Acts 22:23 and 27:19 and 29.<br /><br />In Matthew 15:30, “large crowds were bringing those who were lame, crippled ... and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">laid</span></em></strong> them down at His feet,” they were thrown in either carefree confidence, or in haste, because so many were coming on the same errand. In Matthew 9:36, the people were “distressed and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">dispirited</span></em></strong> (<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">scattered</span></em></strong> in KJV, NKJV; <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">helpless</span></em></strong> in NIV) like sheep without a shepherd.” It sets forth the sad condition of those that are destitute of faithful guides to go before them in the things of God. In Acts 27:43, in Paul's shipwreck story, the centurion commanded that “they should <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">jump</span></em></strong> overboard.” A different variation on this word is in 1 Corinthians 15:52, regarding the rapture of the saints, “in the <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">twinkling</span></em></strong> of an eye.” The Greeks used this word for the flapping of a wing, the buzz of a gnat, generally any rapid movement.<br /><br />In James 1:6, “one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">tossed</span></em></strong> by the wind,” the variation of this word means a “bellows” or “fire-fan.” The picture is of a great ocean-swell throwing itself up into pointed waves, the tops of which are caught up by the wind and fanned off into spray.<br /><br />In <strong>1 PETER 5:7</strong>, “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">casting</span></em></strong> all your anxiety on Him,” this word is a command, and tells us how to handle the command of verse 6, how to be humbled. Anxiety is a contradiction to true humility. Unbelief is an exalting of one’s self against God, depending on self and failing to trust God. God is more concerned about our welfare than we could possibly be. We are not to submit to circumstances, but to the Lord Who controls circumstances.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-79963147763726243412007-04-03T11:21:00.005-06:002007-04-03T11:59:01.977-06:00ChangeGreek Word Pronunciation: al-LAS-oh<br />Strong’s Number: 236<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 248<br />Key Verse: “… and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">exchanged</span></em></strong> the glory of the incorruptible God …” -- Romans 1:23<br /><br />This is a word that comes from <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">allos</span></strong>, meaning “another of a different kind.” <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Allasso</span></strong> means “to make other than it is; to cause one thing to cease and another to take its place.” It appears only 6 times in the New Testament.<br /><br />In Acts 6:14, at Stephen’s arrest, the Jews misrepresented Stephen’s comment, indicating Stephen had said that Jesus would <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">alter</span></em></strong> the Mosaic customs, to introduce other customs in their place.<br /><br />In 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, in reference to the Rapture, “we will all be <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">changed</span></em></strong>.” Believers will undergo such a change as to fit them for their new abode in heaven.<br /><br />In Galatians 4:20, Paul was expressing his wish to be physically present with the Galatian believers to “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">change</span></em></strong>” his tone, that is, from the severe sound in a letter, to a tender quality. He wants to change the manner, not the substance of his speech.<br /><br />Hebrews 1:12 is in reference to the temporary nature of the world which “will also be <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">changed</span></em></strong>.” Creation is now decaying, and this is contrasted with the immutability of Christ, Who never changes.<br /><br />In our key verse, <strong>ROMANS 1:23</strong>, the reference is to idolaters who have “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">exchanged</span></em></strong> the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man.” Men willfully chose to make this exchange of God as an object of worship, for the idols they chose to worship. Matthew Henry said: “<em>It was the greatest honor God did to man that He made man in the image of God; but it is the greatest dishonor man has done to God that he has made God in the image of man</em>.”Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-79251181516725019432007-04-03T11:21:00.004-06:002007-04-03T11:56:28.714-06:00ClingGreek Word Pronunciation: ko-LA-oh<br />Strong's Number: 2853<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 3140<br />Key Verse: “Abhor what is evil; <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">cling</span></em></strong> to what is good.” -- Romans 12:9<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Kollao</span></strong> means “to glue together, cement, adhere, or fasten together.” This verb is used only in passive voice, in the sense of “to be joined to.” In the Septuagint, <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">kollao</span></strong> is used several times regarding one’s tongue <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">clinging</span></em></strong> to the roof of the mouth, diseases <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">clinging</span></em></strong>, or in <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">staying close</span></em></strong> to people. The sons of Israel, in Numbers 36:7, were told to <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">hold</span></em></strong> to the inheritances of the tribes of their fathers.<br /><br />In Matthew 19:5 (quoting Genesis 2:24), “a man shall ... <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">cleave</span></em></strong> (or <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">be joined</span></em></strong>) to his wife,” the word denotes a union of the firmest kind. They are to adhere so firmly together that nothing can separate them. It is used in Acts 5:13; 8:29; 9:26; 10:287; and 17:34 in the sense of becoming associated closely with other people so as to accompany them or to be beside them.<br /><br />Luke 10:11 refers to dust which <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">clings</span></em></strong> to feet, and in Luke 15:15 of a man who “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">hired</span></em></strong> himself out.” Revelation 18:5 speaks of sins having “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">piled</span></em></strong> up as high as heaven.” The idea is that of joining one another in a mass, as if soldered together, giving the impression that they cling in an accumulative fashion from earth to heaven.<br /><br />In 1 Corinthians 6:16 and 17, Paul compares “one who <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">joins</span></em></strong> himself to a prostitute” versus “one who <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">joins</span></em></strong> himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him.” Albert Barnes says, “<em>The union with Christ is more intimate, entire, and pure than that can be between a man and woman, and that union should be regarded as sacred and inviolable. If all Christians regarded this as they should, how would they shrink from the connections which they often form on earth</em>!” Several instances in the Septuagint emphasize clinging to, or holding fast to God, and in Psalm 119:31, the psalmist says, “I <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">cling</span></em></strong> to Your testimonies.”<br /><br />The key verse, <strong>ROMANS 12:9</strong>, “abhor what is evil; <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">cling</span></em></strong> to what is good,” indicates that Christians should be firmly attached to what is good, and not separate or part from it. The present tense of the verb indicates that it should not be an occasional or irregular activity, but it should be constant and active.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-82889128252586686412007-04-03T11:21:00.003-06:002007-04-03T11:43:09.031-06:00ConfirmGreek Word Pronunciation: be-bai-AH-oh<br />Strong’s Number: 950<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 1011<br />Key Verse: “salvation ... was <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">confirmed</span></em></strong> to us by those who heard …” -- Hebrews 2:3<br /><br />The basic meaning of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">bebaioo</span></strong> is “standing firm on the feet, steadfast,” or “maintaining firmness or solidarity.” It stresses certainty or established character of the subject. In both the Greek and Jewish world, the word also had a legal sense. Wuest says, “<em>It is the legal guarantee, obtained by the buyer to the seller, to be gone back upon should a third party claim the thing</em>.”<br /><br />In the New Testament, the verb appears 8 times, and it usually speaks of the confirmed nature of the Word and God’s promises, and of believers being firmly established in the faith. In several instances, “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">confirm</span></em></strong>” is the usual translation: Mark 16:20, Romans 15:8, 1 Corinthians 1:6 and 8 (denoting the establishment and assurance known in Christ), and Hebrews 2:3. Variations in the translations occur in 2 Corinthians 1:21, “He Who <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">establishes</span></em></strong> us with you in Christ,” Colossians 2:7, “having been <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">established</span></em></strong> in your faith” (the assuring took place as a rooting and grounding in Christ), and Hebrews 13:9, “good for the heart to be <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">strengthened</span></em></strong> by grace.”<br /><br />The adjective form is also found 8 times, with more variety in the translation. In Romans 4:16, the “promise will be <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">guaranteed</span></em></strong>”; 2 Corinthians 1:7, “our hope is <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">firmly grounded</span></em></strong>”; Hebrews 3:14 “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">firm</span></em></strong> until the end”; 6:19, “a hope sure and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">steadfast</span></em></strong>” (this speaks of something which does not break down under the weight of that which steps on it); 9:17, “a covenant is <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">valid</span></em></strong>”; 2 Peter 1:10, “diligent to make <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">certain</span></em></strong> about His calling” (in the legal sense); 2 Peter 1:19, “we have the prophetic word made more sure.”<br /><br />In <strong>HEBREWS 2:2,3</strong>, both the adjective and verb are used together, “For if the word spoken through angels proved <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">unalterable</span></em></strong>, ... salvation ... was <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">confirmed</span></em></strong> to us by those who heard.” The Gospel was securely founded in divine holiness and was confirmed by ear- and eye-witnesses, the apostles who confessed the truth of the Word.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7900331096667807853.post-59975566440488655932007-04-03T11:21:00.002-06:002007-04-03T11:35:51.994-06:00ConsiderGreek Word Pronunciation: he-GAY-o-mai<br />Strong’s Number: 2233<br />Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 2451<br />Key Verse: “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Consider</span></em></strong> it all joy ... when you encounter various trials …” James 1:2<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Hegeomai</span></strong> was used of “governing” or “leading the way,” and then came to be translated as “think, esteem, regard, or consider.” In the Septuagint, it is used routinely of military commanders, officials, princes, and governors. In the New Testament, the noun form is “governor, prince, or ruler.” Several times, the word takes the form of a participal, as in Matthew 2:6, “Bethlehem ... no means least among the <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">leaders</span></strong> (noun) of Judah; for out of you shall come forth a <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">ruler</span></em></strong> (literally, “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">the one governing</span></em></strong>”). This participle is translated as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">leader, governor</span></em></strong>, or <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">chief</span></em></strong> in Luke 22:26; Acts 7:10, 14:12, 15:22; and Hebrews 13:17, 24.<br /><br />In the NASB, the verb translates as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">esteem</span></em></strong> in 1 Thessalonians 5:13; and as <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">think</span></em></strong> in 2 Corinthians 9:5, Philippians 2:25, and Hebrews 10:29. The word is <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">count</span></em></strong> in 2 Peter 2:13; and in Philippians 3:7, Paul “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">counted</span></em></strong> as loss” the things not only insufficient to enrich him, but what would certainly impoverish and ruin him, if he trusted to them, in opposition to Christ. In verse 8, “I <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">count</span></em></strong> all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus.” He speaks of all things which could stand in competition with Christ for the throne in his heart. In 2 Peter 3:9 and 3:15, this same Greek word is translated as both <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">count</span></em></strong> and <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">regard</span></em></strong>: “the Lord is not slow about His promise, as some <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">count</span></em></strong> slowness ... <em><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>regard</strong> </span></em>the patience of our Lord to be salvation.” The Lord will keep to the time appointed in coming to judge the world. In Philippians 2:3, we are told to “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">regard</span></em></strong> one another as more important than himself.” [Paul said of himself that he was “the least of the apostles” (1 Corinthians 15:9). As Paul matured, his view of himself decreased.] This word is translated <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">consider</span></em></strong> in Acts 26:2, 1 Timothy 1:12, Hebrews 11:11, 26, and 2 Peter 1:13. In 1 Timothy 1:12, Christ <strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">considered</span></em></strong> Paul faithful. Christ gives not only ability, but fidelity, to those whom he puts into the ministry. Paul’s thanking God for this shows that the merit of his faithfulness was due solely to God’s grace, not to his own natural strength.<br /><br />Finally, in <strong>JAMES 1:2</strong>, the apostle says to “<strong><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">consider</span></em></strong> it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials.” This is not to be understood as meaning that these trials are joyful in themselves, but that as a means to beneficial results, they are to be rejoiced in.Peggy Overstreethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09417641756281387526noreply@blogger.com1