The term "constrainedly" is not directly found in the text of the Bible; however, the concept of being constrained or compelled is present in various passages and contexts throughout Scripture. In biblical terms, being constrained often refers to being compelled or urged by a force, whether it be divine, moral, or circumstantial.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Divine Compulsion: In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently speaks of being constrained by the love of Christ or by the Holy Spirit. In 2 Corinthians 5:14 , Paul writes, "For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died." Here, the term "compels" can be understood as a form of divine constraint, where the overwhelming love of Christ drives believers to act in accordance with His will.

2. Moral and Ethical Constraint: The concept of being constrained by moral or ethical obligations is also evident in Scripture. In Acts 20:22 , Paul says, "And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there." This passage illustrates how Paul felt a strong moral and spiritual obligation to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, even in the face of uncertainty and potential danger.

3. Circumstantial Constraint: At times, individuals in the Bible are constrained by their circumstances. For example, in the account of Jonah, the prophet is constrained by the circumstances of being swallowed by a great fish, which ultimately leads him to fulfill God's command to go to Nineveh (Jonah 1-2). Although not explicitly described as "constrainedly," Jonah's situation reflects how God can use circumstances to compel individuals to align with His purposes.

4. Constrained by Love and Duty: The theme of being constrained by love and duty is prevalent in the teachings of Jesus. In John 21:15-17 , Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him, and each time, He instructs Peter to "Feed my sheep." This dialogue highlights the idea that love for Christ constrains believers to serve and care for others, fulfilling their duty as followers of Jesus.

Theological Implications

The notion of being constrainedly driven by divine love, moral duty, or circumstances underscores the biblical principle that believers are not autonomous but are called to live in obedience to God's will. This obedience is not burdensome but is motivated by love and a desire to honor God. The constraints placed upon believers are seen as a means of aligning their lives with God's purposes, leading to spiritual growth and fulfillment.

Practical Application

In practical terms, understanding the concept of being constrainedly compelled can encourage believers to discern the guiding forces in their lives. Whether it is the love of Christ, the prompting of the Holy Spirit, or the circumstances they face, Christians are called to respond faithfully and obediently. This response involves a willingness to submit to God's leading, trusting that His constraints are ultimately for their good and His glory.(adv.) By constraint or compulsion; in a constrained manner.

Rom. xv. 25-27
... accepted. For when any one gives it constrainedly, or out of unjust gains,
or for vanity, the fruit of it is gone. Ver.32. "That ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxx rom xv 25-27.htm

John Chapter vii. 13-Jan
... leaves. "He deceiveth the people," they sounded more and more loudly: "He
is a good man," they whispered more and more constrainedly. ...
/.../augustine/homilies on the gospel of john/tractate xxviii john chapter vii.htm

Formula Concordi??.
... only in men, of whom some, not being regenerate, render to the Law a certain manner
of obedience required by the Law, but do this constrainedly and unwillingly ...
/.../schaff/the creeds of the evangelical protestant churches/formula concordiae.htm

Constrainedly (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (adv.) By constraint or compulsion; in a constrained
manner. Multi-Version Concordance Constrainedly (1 Occurrence). ...
/c/constrainedly.htm - 6k

Constrained (14 Occurrences)

/c/constrained.htm - 10k

Overseers (47 Occurrences)
... 1 Peter 5:2 feed the flock of God that 'is' among you, overseeing not constrainedly,
but willingly, neither for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, (See NIV). ...
/o/overseers.htm - 22k

Overseeing (4 Occurrences)
... 1 Peter 5:2 feed the flock of God that 'is' among you, overseeing not constrainedly,
but willingly, neither for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, (YLT). ...
/o/overseeing.htm - 8k

Constraineth (2 Occurrences)

/c/constraineth.htm - 7k

Constrainedly: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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