Topical Encyclopedia The term "graciously" in the biblical context refers to the manner in which God extends His grace, favor, and kindness to humanity. It is an adverb that describes actions characterized by grace, often highlighting the benevolent and merciful nature of God towards His creation. The concept of grace is central to Christian theology, emphasizing unmerited favor and divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration and sanctification.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often associated with grace is "chen," which conveys favor, kindness, and beauty. God's graciousness is frequently depicted in His covenantal relationships with His people. For instance, in Exodus 34:6, God reveals Himself to Moses as "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation underscores the gracious nature of God as foundational to His character. The Psalms frequently celebrate God's graciousness. Psalm 86:15 states, "But You, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness." Here, the psalmist acknowledges God's graciousness as a source of comfort and hope for the faithful. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "charis" is used to describe grace. The concept of grace is expanded through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, who embodies God's grace to humanity. The Apostle Paul, in particular, emphasizes the gracious nature of God's actions through Christ. In Romans 8:32 , Paul writes, "He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?" This verse highlights the ultimate expression of God's grace through the sacrificial giving of His Son, Jesus, and the assurance of continued grace in the lives of believers. Paul further elaborates on the theme of grace in Ephesians 2:8-9 : "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Here, the graciousness of God is presented as the means of salvation, underscoring that it is a divine gift rather than a human achievement. Practical Implications The graciousness of God calls believers to emulate His character in their interactions with others. Christians are encouraged to extend grace to others, reflecting the kindness and mercy they have received from God. Colossians 4:6 advises, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." This instruction highlights the importance of gracious communication as a testimony to one's faith. Furthermore, the call to live graciously is intertwined with the call to forgive. Ephesians 4:32 exhorts believers, "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." The graciousness of God, demonstrated through forgiveness, serves as a model for interpersonal relationships within the Christian community. In summary, "graciously" in the biblical sense encapsulates the essence of God's interaction with humanity, characterized by unmerited favor and loving-kindness. It serves as both a divine attribute and a model for Christian conduct, urging believers to reflect God's grace in their daily lives. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (adv.) In a gracious manner; courteously; benignantly.2. (adv.) Fortunately; luckily. Greek 5483. charizomai -- to show favor, give freely ... one receiving forgiveness. [5483 () literally means, "to exercise , show ," ie willingly ("graciously") .]. Word Origin from charis ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5483.htm - 8k 574. haplos -- simply, sincerely Strong's Hebrew 2603a. chanan -- to show favor, be gracious... root Definition to show favor, be gracious NASB Word Usage begged (1), dealt graciously (1), favor (1), feel pity (1), finds...favor (1), give them to us ... /hebrew/2603a.htm - 6k 2896. towb -- pleasant, agreeable, good 2603. chanan -- to show favor, be gracious 2896b. tob -- a good thing, benefit, welfare Library Say, I Pray You, -- that Peta, Puta, Patella May Graciously Favour ... The Whole of that in which we Appear Before God, Justifies Us. But ... Chapter xxxiii For Patience in Great Sorrow. On the Justification of Man as a Sinner, but yet a Believer ... Election no Discouragement to Seeking Souls The Life of Mr. James Mitchel. Introduction Preface. Of Four Degrees of Christian Men's Living; and of the Course of ... Thesaurus Graciously (24 Occurrences)...Graciously (24 Occurrences). Luke 1:25 "Thus has the Lord dealt with me," she said, "now that He has graciously taken away my reproach among men." (WEY). ... /g/graciously.htm - 13k Entrusted (55 Occurrences) Dealeth (22 Occurrences) Lends (4 Occurrences) Accordance (118 Occurrences) Gracious (106 Occurrences) Deals (34 Occurrences) Grant (87 Occurrences) Esau (89 Occurrences) Voluntarily (6 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of charis in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgSince God withholds forgiveness, can we? | GotQuestions.org What are the biblical solutions for solving marriage problems? | GotQuestions.org Graciously: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Graciously (24 Occurrences)Luke 1:25 Luke 7:42 Acts 15:14 Acts 27:24 Romans 8:32 Romans 12:3 Romans 12:6 Romans 15:15 1 Corinthians 3:10 Galatians 2:9 Ephesians 3:2 Ephesians 3:7 Ephesians 3:8 Hebrews 12:24 Genesis 33:5 Genesis 33:11 Judges 21:22 2 Kings 25:27 Psalms 37:21 Psalms 37:26 Psalms 112:5 Psalms 119:29 Proverbs 26:25 Hosea 14:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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