Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Compromise, in a biblical context, refers to the act of making concessions or accommodations in matters of faith, doctrine, or moral principles. It often involves finding a middle ground between differing parties or beliefs. While compromise can be beneficial in resolving conflicts and fostering unity, it can also lead to spiritual and moral decline when it involves sacrificing core biblical truths or principles. Biblical Examples and Teachings: 1. Solomon's Compromise: King Solomon, known for his wisdom, compromised his faith by marrying foreign women who led him to worship other gods. This is highlighted in 1 Kings 11:4 : "For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and he was not wholeheartedly devoted to the LORD his God, as his father David had been." Solomon's compromise had lasting negative effects on the kingdom of Israel. 2. Israel's Compromise with Idolatry: Throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites frequently compromised their faith by adopting the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations. Judges 2:12 states, "They forsook the LORD, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, the gods of the peoples around them. They bowed down to them and provoked the LORD to anger." 3. New Testament Warnings: The New Testament warns against compromising the gospel message. In Galatians 1:9 , Paul writes, "As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be under a curse!" This underscores the importance of maintaining the purity of the gospel without compromise. 4. The Church in Pergamum: In Revelation 2:14-15 , Jesus rebukes the church in Pergamum for compromising with false teachings: "But I have a few things against you: You have some there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to place a stumbling block before the Israelites, so they would eat food sacrificed to idols and commit sexual immorality. In the same way, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans." Principles for Avoiding Compromise: 1. Adherence to Scripture: Believers are called to adhere strictly to the teachings of Scripture. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 emphasizes the sufficiency of Scripture: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." 2. Discernment and Wisdom: Christians are encouraged to seek wisdom and discernment to avoid compromising situations. James 1:5 states, "Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." 3. Standing Firm in Faith: Believers are exhorted to stand firm in their faith and resist pressures to compromise. 1 Corinthians 16:13 advises, "Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong." 4. Avoiding Unequal Yoking: The Bible warns against forming alliances that may lead to compromise. 2 Corinthians 6:14 instructs, "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?" Conclusion: While compromise can be a tool for peace and unity, it becomes detrimental when it involves sacrificing biblical truths or moral standards. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that caution against compromising one's faith and encourages believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to God's Word. Topical Bible Verses Luke 12:58When you go with your adversary to the magistrate, as you are in the way, give diligence that you may be delivered from him; lest he hale you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer cast you into prison. Topicalbible.org Matthew 5:25 Matthew 6:33 Proverbs 25:8-10 John 14:15 Luke 12:59 Greek 5288. hupostello -- to draw in, let down, draw back ... under" and 4724 , "draw in") -- properly, draw under, pulling back to (go backwards); withdraw (shrink from); shun; "back off," especially due to compromise. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5288.htm - 7k Library No Compromise But this New Cloudy Political Cowardice Has Rendered Useless the ... The Synod of Jerusalem, and the Compromise Between Jewish and ... An Era of Spiritual Darkness The Apostasy. The Suffering of Love. The Conservative Reaction, and the Liberal victory -- Naaman's Imperfect Faith There is a Popular Philosophical Joke Intended to Typify the ... A Word for the Persecuted Resources Is it possible to sell your soul to the devil? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the importance of Mizpah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Rachel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bargain: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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