Topical Encyclopedia Commendation in the biblical context refers to the act of entrusting, praising, or recommending someone or something, often in the sight of God or the Christian community. It is a significant theme throughout Scripture, reflecting both divine approval and human acknowledgment of faithfulness, virtue, or service.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, commendation is often associated with God's approval of individuals who demonstrate faith and obedience. For example, in Genesis 15:6, Abraham's faith is commended by God: "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This divine commendation underscores the importance of faith as the basis for a righteous standing before God. The Psalms frequently express a desire for God's commendation, as seen in Psalm 37:5-6: "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn, your justice like the noonday sun." Here, the psalmist highlights the connection between trust in God and His commendation through the manifestation of righteousness and justice. New Testament Context In the New Testament, commendation takes on a more explicit form within the early Christian community. The Apostle Paul often uses the concept of commendation in his epistles, both in terms of divine approval and the recognition of fellow believers. In 2 Corinthians 10:18, Paul writes, "For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends." This verse emphasizes that true commendation comes from God, not from self-promotion or human approval. Paul also commends individuals for their service and faithfulness. In Romans 16:1-2, he writes, "I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints and assist her in any matter she may need from you, for she has been a great help to many people, including me." Here, Paul acknowledges Phoebe's contributions and encourages the Roman church to support her, illustrating the communal aspect of commendation. Commendation and Christian Virtue Commendation is closely linked to the demonstration of Christian virtues such as faith, love, and perseverance. Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Hall of Faith," provides numerous examples of individuals who received commendation for their faith. Hebrews 11:2 states, "This is why the ancients were commended." The chapter goes on to list figures like Noah, Abraham, and Moses, whose lives exemplified trust in God's promises. Furthermore, commendation is not limited to individual recognition but extends to the collective witness of the church. In Revelation 2-3, Jesus addresses the seven churches, commending them for their deeds, perseverance, and faithfulness, while also calling them to repentance where necessary. This dual aspect of commendation and correction serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for spiritual vigilance and growth. Practical Implications For believers, seeking commendation from God involves living a life that aligns with His will and reflects His character. It encourages humility, as seen in James 4:10: "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." The pursuit of divine commendation motivates Christians to serve faithfully, love sacrificially, and remain steadfast in trials, knowing that their ultimate approval comes from the Lord. In summary, commendation in the Bible encompasses both divine approval and human recognition, rooted in faithfulness and virtue. It serves as an encouragement for believers to live lives worthy of the calling they have received, with the assurance that their labor in the Lord is not in vain. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The act of commending; praise; favorable representation in words; recommendation.2. (n.) That which is the ground of approbation or praise. 3. (n.) A message of affection or respect; compliments; greeting. Greek 1868. epainos -- praise ... praise. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: epainos Phonetic Spelling: (ep'-ahee-nos) Short Definition: commendation, praise Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1868.htm - 7k 4956. sustatikos -- constructive, commendatory 2162. euphemia -- good report 133. ainesis -- praise 2129. eulogia -- praise, blessing Library Commendation for the Steadfast Love's Commendation Commendation of those who came to Hear after Taking a Meal. ... Commendation and Exhortation. Syriac Version Marriage not Abolished by the Commendation of virginity. Commendation of those who had Laid Aside the Practice of Swearing. ... Commendation and Exhortation. Commendation and Exhortation. It Follows after Commendation of the Trinity, "The Holy Church. .. ... That the Great Reason for the Advent of Christ was the ... Thesaurus Commendation (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Commendation (2 Occurrences). 1 ... ourselves? Or do we need, as do some, letters of commendation to you or from you? ... /c/commendation.htm - 7k Commendatory (1 Occurrence) Commend (22 Occurrences) Onesimus (2 Occurrences) Second (2060 Occurrences) Judge (297 Occurrences) Letters (51 Occurrences) Flatter (5 Occurrences) Flattery (11 Occurrences) Recommend (2 Occurrences) Resources Is the Bible truly God's Word? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus fulfilled the law, but did not abolish it? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Jehoshaphat in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Commendation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Commendation (2 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 4:5 2 Corinthians 3:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |