Topical Encyclopedia The term "avouch" is an archaic English word that appears in the King James Version of the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament. It is derived from the Middle English "avouchen," meaning to affirm, declare, or assert with confidence. In biblical contexts, "avouch" is used to describe a solemn declaration or affirmation, often in the context of a covenant relationship between God and His people.Biblical Usage The concept of avouching is closely tied to the covenantal relationship between God and the Israelites. It involves a mutual declaration of commitment and identity. The term is notably used in Deuteronomy, where it underscores the reciprocal nature of the covenant. Deuteronomy 26:17-18 : "Today you have proclaimed that the LORD is your God and that you will walk in His ways, keep His statutes, commandments, and ordinances, and listen to His voice. And today the LORD has proclaimed that you are His people, His treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you are to keep all His commandments." In this passage, the Israelites "avouch" the LORD as their God, committing to follow His commandments and walk in His ways. In response, the LORD "avouches" them as His treasured possession, affirming His commitment to them as His chosen people. This mutual avouching signifies a deep, binding relationship characterized by loyalty and obedience. Theological Significance The act of avouching in the biblical sense is more than a mere verbal declaration; it is a profound commitment that involves the heart, mind, and actions. It reflects the seriousness of the covenant relationship, where both parties—God and His people—declare their allegiance and responsibilities to one another. From a theological perspective, avouching emphasizes the importance of identity and belonging in the biblical narrative. For the Israelites, avouching the LORD as their God was a declaration of their unique identity as His people, set apart from other nations. It was a call to live in accordance with His laws and to reflect His character in their lives. Application in Christian Life In the Christian context, the concept of avouching can be seen in the believer's confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This confession is not merely a verbal acknowledgment but a commitment to live according to His teachings and to be transformed by His grace. Just as the Israelites avouched their allegiance to God, Christians are called to avouch their faith through their words, actions, and lifestyle. The idea of avouching also serves as a reminder of the covenantal relationship that believers have with God through Christ. It underscores the mutual commitment between God and His people, where God avouches His promises of salvation, grace, and eternal life, and believers avouch their faith and obedience to Him. In summary, the term "avouch" in the Bible highlights the solemn and binding nature of the covenant relationship between God and His people, characterized by mutual declarations of commitment and identity. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To appeal to; to cite or claim as authority.2. (v. t.) To maintain a just or true; to vouch for. 3. (v. t.) To declare or assert positively and as matter of fact; to affirm openly. 4. (v. t.) To acknowledge deliberately; to admit; to confess; to sanction. 5. (n.) Evidence; declaration. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AVOUCHa-vouch': In English Versions of the Bible only in Deuteronomy 26:17, 18, in the sense of "to confess," "avow," "publicly and solemnly declare." The Hebrew form is likewise unique (Hiph. of 'amar). Strong's Hebrew 559. amar -- to utter, say... answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge,. A primitive root; to say (used with great latitude) -- answer ... /hebrew/559.htm - 7k Library Wesley on Geology and Rousseau The Christian Urged To, and Assisted In, an Express Act of Self ... Manner of Covenanting. The Life of Mr. William Row. An Abstract of a Speech Delivered by Lord Warriston, Before the ... Ancient American Covenant or Confession of Faith. That all Marvels are not of Nature's Production, but that Some are ... The Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. Be not Conformed to this World. Romans 12:2. Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant. Thesaurus Avouch... 4. (vt) To acknowledge deliberately; to admit; to confess; to sanction. 5. (n.) Evidence; declaration. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. AVOUCH. ... /a/avouch.htm - 7k Vouch (1 Occurrence) Avoids (3 Occurrences) Avouched (2 Occurrences) Resources Avouch: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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