Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "clash" can be understood as a conflict or confrontation between opposing forces, ideas, or individuals. Throughout Scripture, clashes occur on various levels, including spiritual, moral, and physical, often highlighting the struggle between good and evil, faith and unbelief, or obedience and rebellion.Spiritual Clashes One of the most significant spiritual clashes in the Bible is the ongoing battle between God and Satan. This cosmic conflict is evident in passages such as Ephesians 6:12, which states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This verse underscores the spiritual nature of the clash, emphasizing the need for believers to be equipped with the armor of God to stand firm against these forces. Moral Clashes Moral clashes are prevalent throughout the Bible, often depicted as the struggle between righteousness and sin. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 is an early example, where Cain's jealousy and anger lead to the murder of his brother Abel, highlighting the clash between sinful desires and righteous living. Similarly, the prophets frequently confronted the moral failings of Israel, calling the people to repentance and a return to God's ways. Physical Clashes Physical clashes are also a recurring theme in the biblical narrative. The Old Testament is replete with accounts of battles and wars, often involving the Israelites and their enemies. One notable example is the clash between David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. This confrontation not only represents a physical battle but also a spiritual one, as David's faith in God enables him to triumph over the Philistine giant. Clashes of Belief and Unbelief The New Testament presents numerous instances of clashes between belief and unbelief. Jesus frequently encountered opposition from the religious leaders of His day, who clashed with Him over interpretations of the Law and His claims of divinity. In John 8:58-59, Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am!" This statement led to a clash with the Jews, who considered it blasphemous and sought to stone Him. Clashes within the Early Church The early church also experienced internal clashes, as seen in the disagreements between Jewish and Gentile believers over the requirements of the Law. Acts 15 records the Jerusalem Council, where the apostles and elders addressed these issues, ultimately deciding that Gentile converts were not obligated to follow all the Jewish customs. This resolution helped to maintain unity within the church despite differing cultural backgrounds. Personal Clashes On a personal level, the Apostle Paul often wrote about the internal clash between the flesh and the spirit. In Romans 7:23, he describes this struggle: "But I see another law at work in my body, waging war against the law of my mind and holding me captive to the law of sin that dwells within me." This internal clash is a common experience for believers, who must rely on the Holy Spirit to overcome sinful tendencies and live according to God's will. In summary, the concept of clash in the Bible encompasses a wide range of conflicts, each serving to illustrate the broader spiritual, moral, and physical battles that define the human experience in relation to God's redemptive plan. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To make a noise by striking against something; to dash noisily together.2. (v. i.) To meet in opposition; to act in a contrary direction; to come onto collision; to interfere. 3. (v. t.) To strike noisily against or together. 4. (n.) A loud noise resulting from collision; a noisy collision of bodies; a collision. 5. (n.) Opposition; contradiction; as between differing or contending interests, views, purposes, etc. Library Hell. Love Wooing yet More. The Cross as a Social Principle The Festival of Games, in Honor of Augustus, were About to Begin ... The Fallacy of the Young Nation God's People Delivered. God's People Delivered Paragraphs from Notable Speeches Eighth Tractate. On the Nature and Source of Evil. Fifth Tractate. Problems of the Soul (3). [Also Entitled "On Sight ... Thesaurus Clash (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Clash (2 Occurrences). Job 39:21 He paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength: He goeth out to meet the armed men. (See JPS) ... /c/clash.htm - 7k Jar (45 Occurrences) Vow (49 Occurrences) Knock (7 Occurrences) Occur (13 Occurrences) Justle (1 Occurrence) Thwart (5 Occurrences) Discord (7 Occurrences) Collide (1 Occurrence) Clashing (1 Occurrence) Resources Is the universe expanding? | GotQuestions.orgI'm young. How can I live the Christian life? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say that would apply to selfie culture? | GotQuestions.org Clash: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Clash (2 Occurrences)Job 39:21 Psalms 150:5 Subtopics Related Terms |