Topical Encyclopedia The term "loath" refers to a strong feeling of reluctance or unwillingness. In the context of the Bible, it often describes a deep aversion or repulsion towards certain actions, behaviors, or attitudes that are contrary to God's will and commandments. This concept is significant in understanding the moral and spiritual expectations set forth in Scripture.Biblical Usage and Context The Bible frequently addresses the concept of being loath to engage in sin or to turn away from God's commandments. This aversion is not merely a personal preference but is rooted in a desire to remain faithful and obedient to God's laws. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of cultivating a heart that is loath to sin, reflecting a commitment to holiness and righteousness. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the concept of being loath is often associated with the Israelites' relationship with God. The prophets frequently called the people to repentance, urging them to be loath to continue in their sinful ways. For example, in Ezekiel 6:9 , God expresses His desire for the Israelites to loathe themselves for their iniquities: "Then in the nations to which they have been carried captive, those who escape will remember Me—how I have been grieved by their adulterous hearts, which have turned away from Me, and by their eyes, which have lusted after their idols. They will loathe themselves for the evil they have done and for all their abominations." This passage highlights the connection between loathing sin and genuine repentance. The Israelites are called to recognize the gravity of their actions and to develop a deep aversion to their past transgressions. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the concept of being loath is often linked to the transformation that occurs in the life of a believer. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, Christians are empowered to develop a loathing for sin and a desire to pursue righteousness. Romans 12:9 exhorts believers: "Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good." This verse underscores the importance of having a sincere love that naturally leads to a loathing of evil. The call to "detest what is evil" is a directive for believers to cultivate a heart that is repulsed by sin and aligned with God's standards. Theological Implications The concept of being loath to sin is deeply intertwined with the biblical themes of repentance, sanctification, and holiness. It reflects an understanding that sin is not merely a violation of divine law but an affront to the character of God. As believers grow in their faith, they are called to develop a heightened sensitivity to sin and a corresponding aversion to it. This aversion is not self-generated but is a result of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. As Christians yield to the Spirit's leading, they become increasingly loath to engage in behaviors that grieve God, striving instead to live lives that are pleasing to Him. Practical Application For believers today, being loath to sin involves a conscious effort to align one's heart and actions with God's will. This includes regular self-examination, confession, and a commitment to spiritual growth. By immersing themselves in Scripture and prayer, Christians can cultivate a deeper understanding of God's holiness and develop a stronger aversion to anything that contradicts His nature. In summary, the biblical concept of being loath is a call to develop a profound aversion to sin and a commitment to righteousness. It is an essential aspect of the believer's journey toward spiritual maturity and a reflection of a heart transformed by the grace of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Filled with disgust or aversion; averse; unwilling; reluctant; as, loath to part with one's money.2. (a.) Hateful; odious; disliked. Greek 3635. okneo -- to shrink (from doing), to hesitate (to do) ... delay. From oknos (hesitation); to be slow (figuratively, loath) -- delay. (okneses) -- 1 Occurrence. 3634, 3635. okneo. 3636 . Strong's Numbers. //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3635.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 947. bus -- to tread down, trample... loath, tread down, under foot, be polluted. A primitive root; to trample (literally or figuratively) -- loath, tread (down, under (foot)), be polluted. ... /hebrew/947.htm - 6k 973. bachal -- to feel a loathing Library What God is to Us. Letter Lxxxiv. To Pammachius and Oceanus. The Judgment. The Nature of Spiritual Hunger "In Christ Our Two Natures are United" Kept from Iniquity Little Sarah Howley. Obedience The Raising of the Dead. A Child Again Thesaurus Loath (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (a.) Filled with disgust or aversion; averse; unwilling; reluctant; as, loath to part with one's money. ...Loath (2 Occurrences). ... /l/loath.htm - 7k Loathe (19 Occurrences) Unwilling (30 Occurrences) Loans (1 Occurrence) Backward (39 Occurrences) Safely (83 Occurrences) Bullock (95 Occurrences) Corn (107 Occurrences) Resources Who was John the Baptist in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were Admah and Zeboiim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What should be the Christian perspective on nudity in art? | GotQuestions.org Loath: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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