Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept The term "depend" in a biblical context refers to the reliance or trust one places in God, His promises, and His provisions. It encompasses the idea of faith, trust, and reliance on God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Dependence on God is a central theme throughout the Scriptures, highlighting the relationship between God and His people. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, dependence on God is often illustrated through the lives of the patriarchs, prophets, and the nation of Israel. For instance, Abraham's journey of faith exemplifies dependence on God's promises (Genesis 12:1-4). The Israelites' reliance on God for deliverance from Egypt and sustenance in the wilderness further underscores this theme (Exodus 16:4-5). The Psalms frequently express a deep sense of dependence on God. Psalm 37:5 encourages believers to "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it." This verse highlights the importance of entrusting one's life and plans to God, relying on His faithfulness to act. New Testament References In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate example of dependence on the Father. His life and ministry were marked by complete reliance on God's will and guidance. In John 5:19 , Jesus states, "Truly, truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself, unless He sees the Father doing it. For whatever the Father does, the Son also does." The Apostle Paul also emphasizes dependence on God in his epistles. In Philippians 4:13 , he declares, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." This verse reflects the belief that true strength and capability come from reliance on Christ. Theological Significance Dependence on God is foundational to the Christian faith. It acknowledges human limitations and the need for divine intervention and guidance. This dependence is not passive but involves active trust and obedience to God's Word. It is a recognition that apart from God, human efforts are insufficient. The concept of dependence is closely linked to faith. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Dependence on God is an expression of faith, trusting in His character and promises. Practical Implications Believers are called to live lives marked by dependence on God. This involves prayer, seeking God's guidance, and trusting in His provision. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." Dependence on God also means recognizing His sovereignty in all circumstances, whether in times of abundance or trial. It is an assurance that God is in control and that His plans are for the ultimate good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly use the word "depend" frequently, the concept permeates the Scriptures, calling believers to a life of trust and reliance on God. This dependence is a vital aspect of the Christian walk, shaping one's relationship with God and influencing daily living. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To hang down; to be sustained by being fastened or attached to something above.2. (v. i.) To hang in suspense; to be pending; to be undetermined or undecided; as, a cause depending in court. 3. (v. i.) To rely for support; to be conditioned or contingent; to be connected with anything, as a cause of existence, or as a necessary condition; -- followed by on or upon, formerly by of. 4. (v. i.) To trust; to rest with confidence; to rely; to confide; to be certain; -- with on or upon; as, we depend on the word or assurance of our friends; we depend on the mail at the usual hour. 5. (v. i.) To serve; to attend; to act as a dependent or retainer. Greek 2910. kremannumi -- to hang ... Word Origin from a prim. root krem- Definition to hang NASB Word Usage depend (1), hanged (1), hanging (3), hangs (1), hung (1). hang. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2910.htm - 6k 2372. thumos -- passion Strong's Hebrew 5027. nabat -- to look... root Definition to look NASB Word Usage beheld (1), behold (1), beholds (2), consider (2), depend (1), depended (1), gaze (1), gazed (1), look (34), look down ... /hebrew/5027.htm - 6k Library God's Dealing Does not Depend Upon any Contingent Merits of Men. That the Peace of Our Heart Does not Depend on Another's Will, but ... That Our Progress in Holy Love Does not Depend on Our Natural ... On the Fact that the Power to Hurt Does not Depend Upon the Will ... The Durations and Issues of War Depend on the Will of God. Free Grace God's Works of Providence Application of Sanctification. Extracts No. 1. Third Tractate. Are the Stars Causes? Thesaurus Depend (12 Occurrences)... 4. (vi) To trust; to rest with confidence; to rely; to confide; to be certain; -- with on or upon; as, we depend on the word or assurance of our friends; we ... /d/depend.htm - 10k Fountain (57 Occurrences) Depended (6 Occurrences) Confide (31 Occurrences) Cistern (21 Occurrences) Aqueduct (4 Occurrences) Hinge (1 Occurrence) Pool (25 Occurrences) Trade (33 Occurrences) Well (2882 Occurrences) Resources What are practical ways to depend on God alone? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we commit our work to the Lord and have our plans established (Proverbs 16:3)? | GotQuestions.org Do faith in God and science contradict? | GotQuestions.org Depend: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Depend (12 Occurrences)Matthew 22:40 Romans 9:16 2 Kings 18:21 2 Kings 19:10 Job 39:11 Psalms 49:6 Psalms 62:7 Isaiah 22:11 Isaiah 30:12 Isaiah 31:1 Isaiah 36:6 Isaiah 37:10 Subtopics Related Terms |