Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage:The term "ofttimes" is an archaic English word meaning "often" or "frequently." It is used in various translations of the Bible to describe actions or events that occur repeatedly or habitually. In the context of Scripture, "ofttimes" conveys the idea of regularity or recurrence in behavior, events, or divine intervention. Biblical References: 1. Mark 9:22 : In the account of Jesus healing a boy with an unclean spirit, the father of the boy describes the spirit's actions: "It has often thrown him into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us." Here, "ofttimes" (translated as "often" in the) emphasizes the repeated and destructive attempts of the spirit to harm the boy, highlighting the severity of the situation and the father's desperation for divine intervention. 2. Matthew 17:15 : In a parallel account, the father pleads with Jesus, saying, "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and suffers terribly. He often falls into the fire or into the water." The use of "often" underscores the persistent nature of the boy's affliction and the urgent need for healing. 3. Luke 5:16 : "Yet He frequently withdrew to the wilderness to pray." This passage illustrates Jesus' habitual practice of seeking solitude for prayer, demonstrating His commitment to communion with the Father and setting an example for believers in the importance of regular prayer. Theological Implications: The use of "ofttimes" in Scripture often highlights the persistence of certain behaviors or conditions, whether they are negative, such as demonic oppression or illness, or positive, such as Jesus' dedication to prayer. This repetition can serve as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battles believers face and the need for continual reliance on God's power and grace. In the context of Jesus' ministry, the frequent occurrences of healing and deliverance underscore His authority over the spiritual realm and His compassion for those in bondage. The repeated nature of these miracles serves to affirm His identity as the Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming of a Savior who would bring restoration and hope. Practical Application: For believers, the concept of "ofttimes" can serve as an encouragement to cultivate regular spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. Just as Jesus often withdrew to pray, Christians are called to develop habits that strengthen their relationship with God and equip them to face the challenges of life with faith and perseverance. Additionally, recognizing the persistent nature of spiritual warfare, believers are reminded of the importance of vigilance and the need to put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy. The repeated trials and temptations faced by individuals in Scripture serve as a testament to the reality of spiritual opposition and the necessity of ongoing spiritual growth and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (adv.) Frequently; often.Library Of Some Certain Tokens by the which a Man May Prove Whether He be ... The Humanheartedness of Jesus. Our Lord in the Garden "But Jesus Sent Him Away" (Luke 8:00 38) That by virtue of this Work a Sinner Truly Turned and Called to ... That in all Other Works Beneath This, Men Should Keep Discretion ... That Ilk Man Chosen of God Has his State Ordained That God is to be Loved and Worshipped in Diseases: and Also of ... Internal Affective Prayer of Contemplation Hath Always Been ... The Betrayal. Thesaurus Ofttimes (3 Occurrences)...Ofttimes (3 Occurrences). ... (KJV). John 18:2 And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples. (KJV). ... /o/ofttimes.htm - 7k Oftentimes (7 Occurrences) Vexed (37 Occurrences) Oft-times (3 Occurrences) Onesiphorus (2 Occurrences) Lunatic (2 Occurrences) Lunatick (2 Occurrences) Lawful (38 Occurrences) Falleth (119 Occurrences) Thither (119 Occurrences) Resources Ofttimes: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Ofttimes (3 Occurrences)Matthew 17:15 Mark 9:22 John 18:2 Subtopics Related Terms |