The term "forceth" is an archaic English word that appears in older translations of the Bible, often conveying the idea of exerting power, compulsion, or urgency. In the context of Scripture, it is used to describe actions or situations where force or compulsion is applied, either physically or metaphorically. While the Berean Standard Bible does not use the term "forceth," understanding its implications can provide insight into the biblical narrative and its teachings.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Physical Force: In the Bible, the concept of force is often associated with physical strength or military power. For example, the Israelites frequently encountered nations that relied on force to assert dominance. The Bible recounts numerous battles where force was a critical element, such as the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 6-12) and the various conflicts during the period of the Judges (Judges 3-16).

2. Spiritual and Moral Force: Beyond physical might, the Bible also speaks of spiritual and moral force. This is evident in the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the power of faith and the Holy Spirit over physical force. In Matthew 11:12 , Jesus states, "From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subject to violence, and the violent lay claim to it." This passage suggests a spiritual fervor and urgency in pursuing the kingdom of God, rather than a reliance on physical force.

3. Compulsion and Coercion: The Bible also addresses the use of force in terms of compulsion and coercion. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks against using force to compel others in matters of faith. In 2 Corinthians 9:7 , Paul writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." This highlights the importance of voluntary action over forced compliance in the Christian life.

4. Divine Force: The Bible frequently portrays God as a force of righteousness and justice. God's power is depicted as both protective and corrective. In the Old Testament, God's force is seen in acts of deliverance, such as the Exodus from Egypt (Exodus 14) and the protection of Israel from its enemies. In the New Testament, the force of God's love and grace is manifested through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, offering salvation to all who believe.

Theological Implications

The concept of force in the Bible underscores the tension between human reliance on physical power and the divine call to spiritual strength. While human societies often prioritize force as a means of control and dominance, the biblical narrative consistently points to a higher, spiritual force that transcends human limitations. This divine force is characterized by love, justice, and mercy, calling believers to live in accordance with God's will rather than worldly power dynamics.

In summary, while the term "forceth" may not appear in modern translations like the Berean Standard Bible, its underlying themes are woven throughout Scripture. The Bible challenges believers to discern the appropriate use of force, emphasizing spiritual strength and divine guidance over human compulsion and coercion.

On St Barbara's Day, or that of any Other Holy virgin
... by which man can so completely quench the fiery darts of the enemy as by fervent
and devout prayer; for it burneth and chaseth him away, and forceth him to ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tauler/the inner way/sermon ii on st barbaras.htm

Wisdom and the Strange Woman
... the full moon.". With her much fair speech she causeth him to yield, With
the flattering of her lips she forceth him away. He goeth ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/vii wisdom and the strange.htm

Good God! what Takes Place in Man, that He Should More Rejoice at ...
... and the groat is restored to Thy treasury, the neighbours rejoicing with the woman
who found it; and the joy of the solemn service of Thy house forceth to tears ...
/.../augustine/the confessions of saint augustine/chapter iii good god what.htm

As Eagles are Drawn by the Scent of a Carcase
... Who would not be drawn to the Gate of Heaven, were it open to receive him? Yet nothing
compels him, but that which forceth the Angels, Commodity and Desire. ...
/.../traherne/centuries of meditations/57 as eagles are drawn.htm

Dedication
... But it is the mere necessity of the souls of men, and my desire of their salvation,
and of the prosperity of the Church, which forceth me to this arrogance and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/dedication.htm

Colossians iv. 5, 6
... nor be insulting; but if thou be asked concerning his doctrine, answer that it is
polluted, and impious; but when none asketh thee, nor forceth thee to speak ...
/.../homily xi colossians iv 5.htm

Against Foolish Talking and Jesting.
... Such a reprehension, while it forceth a smile without, doth work remorse within;
while it seemeth to tickle the ear, doth sting the heart. ...
/.../against foolish talking and jesting.htm

On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. viii. 8, "I am not Worthy that ...
... How long shall I go about to speak in bright and pleasing terms to you, what my
grief forceth me to speak in some sort, and will not suffer me to keep secret? ...
/.../sermons on selected lessons of the new testament/sermon xii on the words.htm

Free Grace
... Thou temptest; He forceth us to be damned; for we cannot resist his will. Thou fool,
why goest thou about any longer, seeking whom thou mayest devour? ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 128 free grace.htm

Concerning the Power of the Civil Magistrate in Matters Purely ...
... The church reproves and fights by banishment and prisons, and forceth herself to
be believed, which once was believed because of the imprisonments and ...
/.../proposition xiv concerning the power.htm

Forceth (2 Occurrences)
...Forceth (2 Occurrences). ... Proverbs 7:21 With her much fair speech she causeth him
to yield; With the flattering of her lips she forceth him along. (ASV YLT). ...
/f/forceth.htm - 6k

Flattery (11 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV ASV DBY WBS YLT). Proverbs 7:21 She turneth him aside with the abundance
of her speech, With the flattery of her lips she forceth him. (YLT). ...
/f/flattery.htm - 9k

Forcible (3 Occurrences)

/f/forcible.htm - 7k

Enticeth (3 Occurrences)
... Proverbs 7:21 With her much fair speech she causeth him to yield; With the
flattering of her lips she forceth him along. (See JPS). ...
/e/enticeth.htm - 7k

Blandishment (1 Occurrence)
... Blandishment (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 7:21 With her much fair speech she causeth
him to yield; With the flattering of her lips she forceth him along. (See JPS). ...
/b/blandishment.htm - 6k

Forces (123 Occurrences)

/f/forces.htm - 39k

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