Topical Encyclopedia Expounding refers to the act of explaining or interpreting the meaning of a text, particularly Scripture. In the context of the Bible, expounding is a critical practice for understanding the depth and breadth of God's Word. It involves elucidating the meaning of biblical passages, often by providing historical, cultural, and theological context to enhance comprehension and application.Biblical Basis for Expounding The practice of expounding Scripture is well-documented in the Bible. In the Old Testament, we see examples of leaders and prophets who expounded the Law to the people. For instance, in Nehemiah 8:8, it is recorded, "They read from the Book of the Law of God, clearly explaining and giving insight so that the people could understand the reading." This passage highlights the importance of making Scripture understandable to the audience. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself often expounded the Scriptures. In Luke 24:27, after His resurrection, Jesus met two disciples on the road to Emmaus and "beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself." This act of expounding was crucial for the disciples to understand the fulfillment of prophecy in Christ. The Apostle Paul also engaged in expounding the Scriptures. In Acts 17:2-3, it is noted, "As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead." Paul's method of expounding was to reason and provide evidence from the Scriptures, demonstrating the necessity and reality of Christ's work. Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the expounding of Scripture. In John 16:13, Jesus promises, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth." The Holy Spirit aids believers in understanding and interpreting the Bible, ensuring that expounding is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual one that leads to transformation and growth in faith. Expounding in the Early Church The early church placed a strong emphasis on the expounding of Scripture. In Acts 2:42, the early believers "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." The apostles' teaching involved expounding the life and teachings of Jesus, as well as the Old Testament Scriptures, to build up the church in sound doctrine. Practical Application Expounding is not limited to church leaders or theologians; it is a practice that all believers are encouraged to engage in. In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul exhorts Timothy, "Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth." This call to accurately handle the Word implies a need for careful study and expounding of Scripture. In contemporary Christian practice, expounding is often seen in sermons, Bible studies, and personal devotions. It involves a diligent and prayerful approach to Scripture, seeking to understand its original meaning and apply it to modern life. Through expounding, believers are equipped to live out their faith with greater understanding and conviction, rooted in the truth of God's Word. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Expound.Library Fragment xvi. Expounding Again the Law to that Generation which ... After Expounding the High Estate of the Almighty, the Eternity of ... "John," Said I, "Shall I Bring a Man to You... Writings of St. Ambrose. Preaching Incidents Wesley Begins Field-Preaching An Accident and a Long Sermon Testimonies to the Unity of God. John Chapter xvi. 8-11. Letter cxviii. (AD 410. ) Thesaurus Expounding (3 Occurrences)...Expounding (3 Occurrences). Mark 4:34 and without a simile he was not speaking to them, and by themselves, to his disciples he was expounding all. (YLT). ... /e/expounding.htm - 7k Explaining (8 Occurrences) Express (13 Occurrences) Kelaiah (1 Occurrence) Kelita (3 Occurrences) Nicodemus (5 Occurrences) Exposition (2 Occurrences) Explanation (9 Occurrences) Expounders (4 Occurrences) Meshullam (25 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about selflessness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is expositional preaching? | GotQuestions.org Does the “God gene” disprove God? | GotQuestions.org Expounding: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Expounding (3 Occurrences)Mark 4:34 Luke 24:27 Acts 28:23 Subtopics Related Terms |