Topical Encyclopedia The term "narrow-minded" is often used in contemporary discourse to describe someone who is unwilling to consider alternative ideas, perspectives, or beliefs. In a biblical context, the concept of being narrow-minded can be examined through the lens of faithfulness to God's Word and the exclusivity of the Christian path.Biblical Context The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of adhering to the truth of God's Word, which can sometimes be perceived as narrow-mindedness by the world. In Matthew 7:13-14 , Jesus speaks of the narrow gate: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." This passage highlights the exclusivity and difficulty of the path to salvation, suggesting that true adherence to God's commands may require a focused and unwavering commitment. Faithfulness to Doctrine The Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and doctrine, even when faced with opposition or alternative teachings. In 2 Timothy 4:3-4 , Paul warns, "For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." This admonition underscores the importance of maintaining a firm grasp on biblical truth, even if it means being perceived as narrow-minded by those who seek more palatable teachings. Exclusivity of Christ The exclusivity of salvation through Christ alone is a central tenet of Christianity that can be seen as narrow-minded by those who advocate for religious pluralism. In John 14:6 , Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." This statement affirms the singular path to God through Jesus Christ, reinforcing the idea that the Christian faith is inherently exclusive in its claim to truth. Discernment and Wisdom While the Bible calls for a steadfast commitment to truth, it also encourages discernment and wisdom in engaging with the world. In James 1:5 , believers are instructed, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This verse suggests that while maintaining a firm foundation in biblical truth, Christians are also called to seek wisdom and understanding in their interactions with others. Conclusion In summary, the concept of narrow-mindedness in a biblical sense is closely tied to the commitment to God's truth and the exclusivity of the Christian faith. While the world may view this as restrictive, the Bible presents it as a necessary aspect of faithful living and adherence to the path that leads to eternal life. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Lacking tolerance; petty -- opposed to open minded; mean.Library Jonah the Narrow-Minded Patriot The Great Gain of Godliness A Solemn Warning for all Churches The Children's Bible They came to be in his Presence On Turning the First Page of the Review which Follows... The Prophet Jonah. Twenty-Ninth Day. Love of Unity. The Sword of the Spirit The Ceremonies and Discipline Op the Church as Illustrated by ... Thesaurus Narrow-minded (1 Occurrence)Narrow-minded. Narrowly, Narrow-minded. Narrowness . Noah Webster's Dictionary ... Multi-Version Concordance Narrow-minded (1 Occurrence). ... /n/narrow-minded.htm - 6k Narrowly (2 Occurrences) Narrowness (1 Occurrence) Child (355 Occurrences) Catholic Jonah (30 Occurrences) Behaviour (115 Occurrences) Herod (45 Occurrences) Shame (412 Occurrences) Resources Going to Heaven - how can I guarantee my eternal destination? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is dogma? | GotQuestions.org What is truth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Narrow-minded (1 Occurrence)1 Peter 2:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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