Topical Encyclopedia The term "beneficent" refers to the quality of being kind, charitable, and doing good. In the context of the Bible, beneficence is a reflection of God's nature and an expectation for His followers. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that highlight the importance of beneficence as a virtue.God's Beneficence God is the ultimate example of beneficence. His goodness and mercy are evident throughout the Bible. In Psalm 145:9, it is written, "The LORD is good to all; His compassion rests on all He has made." This verse underscores God's universal kindness and care for His creation. Similarly, in James 1:17, it is stated, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." God's beneficence is constant and unwavering, providing for the needs of His people. Jesus Christ as the Model of Beneficence Jesus Christ, the Son of God, exemplified beneficence during His earthly ministry. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and showed compassion to the marginalized. In Matthew 14:14, it is recorded, "When He stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them and healed their sick." Jesus' actions were driven by love and a desire to do good, setting a standard for His followers to emulate. The Call to Beneficence Believers are called to reflect God's beneficence in their own lives. The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 6:10, encourages Christians, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith." This directive emphasizes the importance of actively seeking opportunities to do good, both within the Christian community and beyond. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about the nature of true righteousness, which includes acts of beneficence. In Matthew 5:16, He instructs, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Here, beneficence is not only a moral duty but also a means of glorifying God and witnessing to others. Beneficence in Practice The early church provides a model of beneficence in action. Acts 2:44-45 describes the communal life of the believers: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This passage illustrates the practical outworking of beneficence through generosity and mutual support. Furthermore, the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) serves as a powerful illustration of beneficence. The Samaritan's willingness to help a stranger in need, regardless of ethnic and cultural barriers, exemplifies the selfless love and kindness that Jesus calls His followers to demonstrate. The Fruit of the Spirit Beneficence is closely related to the fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Kindness and goodness, as aspects of the fruit of the Spirit, are integral to a life characterized by beneficence. These qualities are cultivated through a relationship with the Holy Spirit and are manifested in actions that reflect God's love and goodness. Conclusion Beneficence is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the character of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Believers are called to embody this virtue, demonstrating kindness, generosity, and compassion in their interactions with others. Through acts of beneficence, Christians bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel and bring glory to God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Performing acts of kindness and charity; doing or producing good; characterized by beneficence.Greek 1949. epilambanomai -- to lay hold of ... ep-ee-lam-ban'-om-ahee) Short Definition: I seize, take hold of Definition: I lay hold of, take hold of, seize (sometimes with beneficent, sometimes with ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1949.htm - 8k 2843. koinonikos -- ready to impart 17. agathopoios -- doing well. Library Prayer for a Beneficent Spirit. Of Helena's Generosity and Beneficent Acts. The True Gnostic is Beneficent, Continent, and Despises Worldly ... That it is the Prerogative of the Same Power to be Beneficent and ... Whether we Ought to do Good to those Rather who are More Closely ... Noble Company. Christ Letter viii. To Demophilus, Therapeutes. About Minding Ones Own ... Egyptian Theory of Nature; their Amulets. Letter Written by the Emperor Constantine to Sapor , the King of ... Thesaurus Beneficent (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Beneficent (3 Occurrences). Luke 6:35 Nevertheless love your enemies, be beneficent; and lend without hoping for any repayment. ... /b/beneficent.htm - 7k Kindly (57 Occurrences) Nevertheless (153 Occurrences) Ungrateful (2 Occurrences) Open-handed (2 Occurrences) Liberal (11 Occurrences) Gedaliah (31 Occurrences) Gracious (106 Occurrences) Repayment (6 Occurrences) Recompense (79 Occurrences) Resources What should be the focus of Christians on Thanksgiving? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened at the Pool of Bethesda? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God works in mysterious ways? | GotQuestions.org Beneficent: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Beneficent (3 Occurrences)Luke 6:35 1 Timothy 6:18 Proverbs 11:25 Subtopics Related Terms |
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