Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage:Annulling, in a biblical context, refers to the act of declaring something invalid or void, often in relation to covenants, laws, or decrees. The concept of annulling is significant in understanding the permanence and authority of God's word and promises, as well as the limitations of human authority in altering divine decrees. Biblical References: 1. Divine Covenants: · The Bible emphasizes the unchangeable nature of God's covenants. In Galatians 3:15, Paul uses the example of a human covenant to illustrate the permanence of God's promises: "Brothers, let me put this in human terms. Even a human covenant, once it is ratified, cannot be annulled or amended." This underscores the idea that God's covenants, such as the Abrahamic covenant, are irrevocable and not subject to annulment by human actions. 2. The Law and Grace: · The relationship between the Law and grace is a central theme in the New Testament. In Hebrews 7:18-19, the author discusses the annulment of the former commandment due to its weakness and unprofitability: "So the former commandment is set aside because it was weak and useless (for the Law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God." This passage highlights the transition from the Old Covenant, based on the Law, to the New Covenant, established through Jesus Christ, which offers a more perfect hope. 3. Human Traditions vs. God's Commandments: · Jesus addresses the issue of annulling God's commandments through human traditions in Mark 7:13: "Thus you nullify the word of God by the tradition you have handed down. And you do so in many such matters." Here, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for allowing their traditions to override the commandments of God, effectively annulling divine authority in favor of human customs. 4. Marriage and Divorce: · The topic of annulling marriage is addressed in the context of divorce. In Matthew 19:6, Jesus speaks to the sanctity and permanence of marriage: "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." This teaching emphasizes that marriage, as instituted by God, should not be annulled by human decision, reflecting the seriousness with which God views the marriage covenant. Theological Implications: · Permanence of God's Word: The concept of annulling highlights the enduring nature of God's word and promises. Scriptures affirm that God's decrees are eternal and unchangeable, as seen in Isaiah 40:8: "The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." This assurance provides believers with confidence in the reliability and faithfulness of God's promises. · Human Limitations: The Bible consistently teaches that human authority is limited in its ability to alter or annul what God has established. This is evident in the warnings against adding to or taking away from God's word (Deuteronomy 4:2; Revelation 22:18-19). Such limitations serve as a reminder of the supremacy of divine authority over human traditions and interpretations. · Moral and Ethical Considerations: The principle of annulling is also relevant in moral and ethical discussions, particularly in maintaining the integrity of God's commandments. Believers are called to uphold God's standards without compromise, resisting the temptation to nullify divine commands through cultural or personal preferences. In summary, the concept of annulling in the Bible serves as a reminder of the unchanging nature of God's word and the limitations of human authority in altering divine decrees. It calls believers to uphold the integrity of God's commandments and to trust in the permanence of His promises. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Annul.Library Excursus on the Later History of Canon xxviii. Christ's Authority Over the Sabbath as Its Lord He Recalled it ... Councils of Ariminum and Seleucia. The Holy See and the Wandering of the Nations. Caesar Fell Down. Fifth Tractate. On Potentiality and Actuality. The Entire Soul Being Indivisible Remains to the Last Act of ... Matt. v. 17 John vi. 1, 4 On the Epistle to the Galatians the Abolition of the Ordinances of ... Thesaurus Annulling (3 Occurrences)...Annulling (3 Occurrences). Hebrews 7:18 For there is an annulling of a foregoing commandment because of its weakness and uselessness (WEB KJV ASV WBS YLT). ... /a/annulling.htm - 7k Annulled (12 Occurrences) Code (6 Occurrences) Uselessness (1 Occurrence) Weakness (25 Occurrences) Foregoing (1 Occurrence) Regulation (6 Occurrences) Defeat (16 Occurrences) Annuls (4 Occurrences) Useless (47 Occurrences) Resources What is Donatism? | GotQuestions.orgAnnulling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Annulling (3 Occurrences)Hebrews 7:18 Zechariah 11:10 Zechariah 11:14 Subtopics Related Terms |