The term "enlargest" is derived from the verb "enlarge," which appears in various forms throughout the Bible. It is often used metaphorically to describe the expansion or increase of territory, influence, or capacity, both in physical and spiritual contexts. The concept of enlargement is significant in biblical theology, symbolizing God's blessing, provision, and the fulfillment of His promises.

Old Testament Usage

1. Territorial Expansion: In the Old Testament, the idea of enlargement frequently pertains to the physical expansion of land or territory. For instance, in the context of the Promised Land, God promises to enlarge the borders of Israel as a sign of His covenant and blessing. In Exodus 34:24 , God assures the Israelites, "For I will drive out nations before you and enlarge your borders."

2. Personal and Spiritual Growth: Enlargement is also used to describe personal growth and spiritual capacity. In the prayer of Jabez, found in 1 Chronicles 4:10 , Jabez calls upon God, saying, "Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory!" This request is not merely for physical land but also for increased influence and blessing in his life.

3. Deliverance and Freedom: The concept of enlargement can also signify deliverance from distress or oppression. In Psalm 4:1 , David cries out, "Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer." The relief or enlargement here implies a release from constriction or trouble.

New Testament Implications

While the specific term "enlargest" is not directly used in the New Testament, the underlying themes of growth and expansion are evident in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. The Kingdom of God is often described in terms of growth and expansion, as seen in the parables of the mustard seed and the leaven (Matthew 13:31-33).

1. Spiritual Enlargement: The New Testament emphasizes the enlargement of the heart and spirit through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Believers are encouraged to grow in grace and knowledge, as seen in 2 Peter 3:18 , "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

2. Missionary Expansion: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) embodies the concept of enlargement as the disciples are commanded to "go and make disciples of all nations." This directive underscores the expansion of the Gospel message to all corners of the earth.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the concept of enlargement is closely tied to the themes of blessing, promise, and divine intervention. It reflects God's desire to bless His people abundantly and to extend His kingdom through them. Enlargement is often contingent upon obedience and faithfulness, as seen in the covenantal promises to Israel and the teachings of Jesus.

Practical Application

For believers today, the principle of enlargement can be applied in various aspects of life, including spiritual growth, ministry outreach, and personal development. It encourages Christians to seek God's blessing and to trust in His ability to expand their influence and capacity for His glory. The prayer for enlargement, akin to that of Jabez, remains a powerful expression of faith and dependence on God's providence.

His Nature Requireth that Thou Love all those whom He Loveth
... loving thou enjoyest. Yea by loving thou expandest and enlargest thyself,
and the more thou lovest art the more glorious. Thou lovest ...
/.../traherne/centuries of meditations/73 his nature requireth that.htm

Enlargest (4 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Enlargest (4 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 22:37 Thou enlargest
my step under me, And mine ankles have not slidden. (YLT). ...
/e/enlargest.htm - 7k

Slidden (5 Occurrences)
... crowd in the place. (DBY). 2 Samuel 22:37 Thou enlargest my step under me,
And mine ankles have not slidden. (YLT). Psalms 17:5 To ...
/s/slidden.htm - 7k

Enlarges (6 Occurrences)

/e/enlarges.htm - 8k

Enlargeth (3 Occurrences)

/e/enlargeth.htm - 7k

Decorate (5 Occurrences)
... thou, that art spoiled, what doest thou, that thou clothest thyself with scarlet,
that thou deckest thee with ornaments of gold, that thou enlargest thine eyes ...
/d/decorate.htm - 8k

Paint (3 Occurrences)
... her eyes"). To the harlot city Jerusalem, Jeremiah (4:30) says, "deckest
thee...., enlargest thine eyes with paint" (pukh). the ...
/p/paint.htm - 10k

Doest (53 Occurrences)
... Though thou clothest thyself with scarlet, though thou deckest thee with ornaments
of gold, though thou enlargest thine eyes with paint, in vain dost thou make ...
/d/doest.htm - 22k

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