Topical Encyclopedia In contemporary terms, a "gang" often refers to a group of individuals who associate for criminal or antisocial purposes. While the Bible does not explicitly mention "gangs" as understood today, it does address related concepts such as groups of evildoers, bandits, and those who conspire to commit acts of violence or injustice. The Scriptures provide guidance on the nature of such associations and the moral and spiritual dangers they pose.Old Testament Context The Old Testament frequently warns against joining with those who do evil. In Proverbs, the wisdom literature offers clear admonitions against associating with violent individuals. Proverbs 1:10-16 states: "My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them. If they say, 'Come along, let us lie in wait for blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause; let us swallow them alive like Sheol, and whole like those descending into the Pit. We will find all manner of precious goods; we will fill our houses with plunder. Throw in your lot with us; let us all share one purse'— my son, do not walk the road with them or set foot upon their path. For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood." This passage highlights the temptation to join with those who promise quick gain through violence and theft, warning of the moral corruption and eventual destruction that follows such a path. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts to the spiritual and communal aspects of association. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers and participating in the deeds of darkness. In 1 Corinthians 15:33 , Paul writes: "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" This admonition underscores the influence that associations can have on one's moral and spiritual life, urging believers to maintain purity and righteousness by avoiding corrupting influences. Biblical Examples Throughout the Bible, there are instances of groups banding together for evil purposes. In the account of Joseph, his brothers conspired against him, initially planning to kill him before selling him into slavery (Genesis 37:18-28). This narrative illustrates the destructive power of collective jealousy and hatred. In the New Testament, the account of Barabbas, a notorious prisoner involved in an insurrection, highlights the presence of organized groups engaged in rebellion and violence (Mark 15:7). The crowd's choice to release Barabbas over Jesus further demonstrates the societal impact of such groups. Moral and Spiritual Implications The Bible consistently calls for separation from those who engage in wickedness and violence. Believers are encouraged to pursue righteousness, peace, and community with those who uphold godly values. The teachings of Jesus emphasize love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, standing in stark contrast to the divisive and destructive nature of gangs. In summary, while the Bible does not directly address modern gangs, its teachings on association, influence, and moral integrity provide clear guidance for avoiding the pitfalls of joining with those who do evil. Believers are called to be light in the world, reflecting the character of Christ in all their relationships and associations. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To go; to walk.2. (n.) A going; a course. 3. (n.) A number going in company; hence, a company, or a number of persons associated for a particular purpose; a group of laborers under one foreman; a squad; as, a gang of sailors; a chain gang; a gang of thieves. 4. (n.) A combination of similar implements arranged so as, by acting together, to save time or labor; a set; as, a gang of saws, or of plows. 5. (n.) A set; all required for an outfit; as, a new gang of stays. 6. (n.) The mineral substance which encloses a vein; a matrix; a gangue. Greek 1044. gaggraina -- a gangrene, an eating sore ... a gangrene, an eating sore. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: gaggraina Phonetic Spelling: (gang'-grahee-nah) Short Definition: gangrene ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1044.htm - 6k Library Preaching to a Press-Gang Defeating the Press-Gang Press Gang and Methodists Press-Gang Disturbs the Sermon Full Power through Rhythm. The Journal of John Wesley The Teen Boy and Missions The Home and the Boy Method and Organization Fundamental Principles in Sunday School Work with Boys Thesaurus Gang (1 Occurrence)... in company; hence, a company, or a number of persons associated for a particular purpose; a group of laborers under one foreman; a squad; as, a gang of sailors ... /g/gang.htm - 7k Driver (4 Occurrences) Company (287 Occurrences) Spell (2 Occurrences) Gangrene (1 Occurrence) Overlook (7 Occurrences) Gamul (2 Occurrences) Team (3 Occurrences) Tribute (67 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about gangs? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Lot offer up his daughters to be gang raped? Why did God allow Lot's daughters to later have sex with their father? | GotQuestions.org What was the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah? | GotQuestions.org Gang: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gang (1 Occurrence)Hosea 7:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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