Topical Encyclopedia Inquiring, within the biblical context, refers to the act of seeking knowledge, understanding, or guidance, often through prayer or consultation with God. This concept is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, where individuals and communities are depicted as seeking divine wisdom and direction.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, inquiring of the Lord was a common practice among the Israelites. Leaders, prophets, and kings often sought God's guidance in decision-making and understanding His will. One notable example is King David, who frequently inquired of the Lord before making significant decisions. In 1 Samuel 23:2 , it is recorded, "So David inquired of the LORD, 'Shall I go and attack these Philistines?' And the LORD said to David, 'Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.'" The practice of inquiring of God was not limited to kings. The priests and prophets also played a crucial role in this process. The Urim and Thummim, sacred lots used by the high priest, were tools for divine inquiry (Exodus 28:30). The prophet Samuel was sought by the people for guidance, as seen in 1 Samuel 9:9 : "Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he would say, 'Come, let us go to the seer,' for the prophet of today was formerly called the seer." New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of inquiring takes on a more personal and spiritual dimension. Jesus Christ, as the embodiment of divine wisdom, becomes the focal point for those seeking understanding. The disciples often inquired of Jesus to gain insight into His teachings and parables. In Matthew 13:10 , the disciples asked, "Why do You speak to the people in parables?" This inquiry led to deeper revelations about the Kingdom of Heaven. The early church continued the practice of inquiring of God, particularly through prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 13:2 , the church in Antioch is described as fasting and praying when the Holy Spirit instructed them, "Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Theological Implications Inquiring of God is an expression of humility and dependence on divine wisdom. It acknowledges human limitations and the need for God's guidance in all aspects of life. Proverbs 3:5-6 encapsulates this attitude: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." The act of inquiring is also a demonstration of faith. It reflects a belief that God is accessible and willing to provide guidance to those who seek Him earnestly. James 1:5 encourages believers, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him." Practical Application For contemporary believers, inquiring of God remains a vital spiritual discipline. It involves prayer, meditation on Scripture, and seeking the counsel of mature Christians. The practice encourages a deeper relationship with God and aligns one's life with His purposes. As believers inquire of the Lord, they are reminded of the promise in Jeremiah 29:13 : "You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart." In summary, inquiring in the biblical sense is a dynamic interaction with God, characterized by seeking His wisdom and direction. It is a practice that has been integral to the faith journey of God's people throughout history and continues to be essential for believers today. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Inquire.2. (a.) Given to inquiry; disposed to investigate causes; curious; as, an inquiring mind. Greek 1830. exeraunao -- to search out ... 1830 (from 1537 , "wholly out from," intensifying 2045 , "search") -- properly, search with all diligence (effort); "" ( in an (inquiring after ); to ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1830.htm - 7k 2477. historeo -- to inquire about, visit 4441. punthanomai -- to inquire, by impl. to learn Library Confessions of an Inquiring Spirit etc Confessions of an Inquiring Spirit etc But this is not what we are Now Inquiring. ... Letter v. Yes, My Dear Friend, it is My Conviction that in all ... Climbing Towards the Climax. Introduction A Nightly Prayer. 1831. Who are These Men who are Wont to Dispute at Such Great Length in ... Martyrdom of Habib the Deacon. Sanctification. Thesaurus Inquiring (23 Occurrences)... n.) of Inquire. 2. (a.) Given to inquiry; disposed to investigate causes; curious; as, an inquiring mind. Multi-Version Concordance Inquiring (23 Occurrences). ... /i/inquiring.htm - 13k Bodies (144 Occurrences) Inquiry (15 Occurrences) Over-anxious (6 Occurrences) Clothes (208 Occurrences) Reason (438 Occurrences) Charge (379 Occurrences) Homage (51 Occurrences) Keilah (16 Occurrences) Newly (15 Occurrences) Resources If Moses met face to face with God, why, later, was he not allowed to see God's face? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the tent of meeting? | GotQuestions.org Why is being a good person not enough to get you into heaven? | GotQuestions.org Inquiring: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Inquiring (23 Occurrences)Matthew 2:2 Matthew 2:4 Matthew 6:25 Matthew 21:10 Mark 3:32 Luke 1:62 Luke 12:22 Luke 15:26 Luke 18:36 John 7:11 Acts 4:7 Acts 10:19 Acts 10:21 Acts 21:33 Romans 10:20 1 Corinthians 10:25 1 Corinthians 10:27 Exodus 33:7 Numbers 27:21 Deuteronomy 12:30 1 Samuel 22:13 Psalms 142:4 Ezekiel 34:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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