Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: The term "jested" refers to the act of making jokes or speaking in a playful or humorous manner. In a biblical context, jesting is often associated with speech that is frivolous, inappropriate, or lacking in seriousness, particularly when it detracts from a godly lifestyle or edifying conversation. Biblical References: The concept of jesting is addressed in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Ephesians 5:4, Paul admonishes believers to avoid certain types of speech: "Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of character, but rather thanksgiving" . Here, "crude joking" can be understood as jesting that is inappropriate or offensive, highlighting the importance of maintaining purity in speech. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, jesting is significant because it reflects the condition of the heart and the values of the speaker. In Matthew 12:34, Jesus teaches, "For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks" . This underscores the idea that speech, including jesting, is a reflection of one's inner spiritual state. Therefore, jesting that is crude or inappropriate can indicate a heart that is not fully aligned with Christian virtues. Moral and Ethical Considerations: In the Christian moral framework, jesting is evaluated based on its content and intent. Speech that is edifying, encouraging, and aligned with biblical principles is encouraged, while jesting that is harmful, disrespectful, or detracts from a godly witness is discouraged. Believers are called to use their words to build others up and to reflect the character of Christ in all aspects of life, including humor. Practical Application: In practical terms, Christians are encouraged to be mindful of their speech, including the use of humor. This involves discerning the appropriateness of jokes and ensuring that humor does not come at the expense of others or compromise one's testimony. Colossians 4:6 advises, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone" . This verse serves as a guideline for maintaining speech that is both gracious and impactful. Cultural Context: In the cultural context of the early church, jesting may have been associated with the broader Greco-Roman practices of entertainment and rhetoric, where humor could often be coarse or irreverent. The early Christians were called to distinguish themselves from such practices by adopting a speech that was reflective of their new identity in Christ. Conclusion: While humor and lightheartedness are not inherently wrong, the biblical perspective on jesting emphasizes the importance of speech that is pure, edifying, and reflective of Christian values. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a heart and speech that honor God and uplift others, avoiding jesting that is contrary to these principles. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Jest.Library Messiah Derided Upon the Cross The House of Offense Letters to Florence The King of Heaven at the Bar of Pilate. Concerning John of Gischala. Concerning the Zealots and the High ... The Great Slaughters and Sacrilege that were in Jerusalem. Of the Gods Peculiar to the Romans, and their Sacred Rites. Wesley Arrested in Edinburgh The Shepherd among his Flock How the Sedition was Again Revived Within Jerusalem and yet the ... Thesaurus Jested (1 Occurrence)... (imp. & pp) of Jest. Multi-Version Concordance Jested (1 Occurrence). ... But he was as if he jested, in the sight of his sons-in-law. (DBY JPS). ... /j/jested.htm - 6k Jesters (1 Occurrence) Jesting (2 Occurrences) Jest (1 Occurrence) Empire (8 Occurrences) Roman (26 Occurrences) Christianity Resources Jested: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Jested (1 Occurrence)Genesis 19:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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