Topical Encyclopedia The concept of opposition is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, manifesting in various forms, from spiritual opposition to interpersonal conflicts. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on how opposition is encountered and addressed by God's people.Spiritual Opposition One of the most significant forms of opposition in the Bible is spiritual, primarily embodied by Satan and his forces. The Apostle Peter warns believers of this adversary: "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). This verse underscores the vigilance required to withstand spiritual opposition. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this in his letter to the Ephesians, where he describes the spiritual armor necessary to stand firm against such forces: "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This passage highlights the importance of spiritual preparedness and reliance on God's strength. Interpersonal Opposition Interpersonal opposition is also prevalent in the biblical narrative. Jesus Himself faced opposition from religious leaders and others who rejected His message. In the Gospel of John, it is recorded: "He came to His own, but His own did not receive Him" (John 1:11). Despite this, Jesus continued His ministry, demonstrating perseverance and commitment to His divine mission. The early church also encountered opposition, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles. The apostles faced persecution and resistance from various authorities. In Acts 5:29, Peter and the other apostles respond to such opposition with boldness: "We must obey God rather than men" . This statement reflects the priority of divine obedience over human approval. Opposition from Within The Bible also addresses opposition that arises from within the community of believers. Paul, in his letters, often warns against false teachings and divisive behavior. In his letter to the Galatians, he writes: "But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse!" (Galatians 1:8). This strong admonition emphasizes the importance of doctrinal purity and unity in the face of internal opposition. God's Sovereignty Over Opposition Despite the various forms of opposition, the Bible consistently affirms God's sovereignty and ultimate victory. In the book of Isaiah, God declares: "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you" (Isaiah 54:17). This promise assures believers of God's protection and vindication. The Apostle Paul echoes this assurance in his letter to the Romans: "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31). This rhetorical question reinforces the confidence believers can have in God's power to overcome any opposition they may face. Response to Opposition The biblical response to opposition is often characterized by faith, prayer, and love. Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount: "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This radical approach to opposition calls believers to respond with grace and compassion, reflecting the character of Christ. In summary, the Bible provides a comprehensive view of opposition, addressing its spiritual, interpersonal, and internal dimensions. Through faith in God's sovereignty and adherence to His teachings, believers are equipped to face and overcome opposition in its various forms. Greek 500. antichristos -- antichrist, (one who opposes Christ) ... antichrist, (one who opposes Christ). Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: antichristos Phonetic Spelling: (an-tee'-khris-tos) Short Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/500.htm - 7k 1246. diakatelegchomai -- to confute completely 480. antikeimai -- to lie opposite, ie oppose, withstand 3709. orge -- impulse, wrath 483. antilego -- to speak against, hence to contradict, oppose 1797. enupniazomai -- to dream Library Julian Opposes the Faith of his Friends to the Opinions of ... The Old Man Opposes his Personal Experience to the Argument of ... victor Promises to the Unbaptized Paradise after their Death, and ... Hallowed be Thy Name. The Power of God Reprobation. The Old Man and the New. The Greatest of These is Love. Disputation Begun. The Same Continued. Thesaurus Opposes (7 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Opposes (7 Occurrences). Mark 3:26 If Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he can't stand, but has an end. (See NIV). ... /o/opposes.htm - 8k Opponent (13 Occurrences) Veneration (1 Occurrence) Oppose (29 Occurrences) Opposition (22 Occurrences) Opposest (1 Occurrence) Opposite (137 Occurrences) Opposers (3 Occurrences) Obstacle (6 Occurrences) Opposer (1 Occurrence) Resources Did God sacrifice Himself to Himself to save us from Himself because of a rule He made Himself? | GotQuestions.orgWhy are Christians homophobic? | GotQuestions.org Why is biblical Creationism so important? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Opposes (7 Occurrences)Mark 3:26 Luke 23:2 John 19:12 2 Thessalonians 2:4 Titus 2:8 James 4:6 1 Peter 5:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |