Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage:The term "overall" is not directly found in the Bible; however, it can be understood in a biblical context as referring to the comprehensive or all-encompassing nature of God's sovereignty, wisdom, and plan for creation. It implies a sense of totality and completeness, often used to describe God's overarching authority and the unity of His purpose throughout Scripture. God's Sovereignty: The concept of God's sovereignty is central to understanding the "overall" nature of His rule. Scripture affirms that God is sovereign over all creation, exercising His will and purpose in every aspect of the universe. In Isaiah 46:10 , God declares, "I declare the end from the beginning, and ancient times from what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.’" This verse highlights the comprehensive nature of God's plan, which encompasses all of time and history. Unity of Scripture: The Bible, as a unified whole, presents an "overall" narrative of God's redemptive plan. From Genesis to Revelation, the Scriptures reveal God's consistent purpose to redeem and restore humanity through Jesus Christ. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 , it is written, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." This passage underscores the comprehensive nature of Scripture in guiding believers in faith and practice. Christ's Supremacy: The New Testament emphasizes the "overall" supremacy of Christ in creation and redemption. Colossians 1:16-17 states, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This passage affirms that Christ is central to God's overall plan, sustaining and unifying all creation. The Church's Role: The Church, as the body of Christ, plays a vital role in God's "overall" mission to the world. Believers are called to participate in God's redemptive work, spreading the Gospel and living out the teachings of Christ. Ephesians 4:15-16 describes the Church's growth and unity: "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head. From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love through the work of each individual part." This illustrates the comprehensive nature of the Church's mission and its interconnectedness in fulfilling God's purpose. Eternal Perspective: The Bible encourages believers to maintain an "overall" perspective that transcends temporal concerns, focusing on eternal truths and promises. In 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 , Paul writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." This passage calls Christians to view their lives within the broader context of God's eternal plan. Conclusion: While the term "overall" may not appear explicitly in Scripture, its thematic presence is evident in the comprehensive nature of God's sovereignty, the unity of His Word, the supremacy of Christ, the mission of the Church, and the eternal perspective believers are called to embrace. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (adv.) Everywhere.Library Letter O Subject Index Appendix iii in the Hampton Court Conference. The General Conference of 1832 Brief Directions How to Read the Holy Scriptures once Every Year ... The Anglican Catechism. AD 1549, 1662. The Slave's Girdle The Catechisms of the Church of England. AD 1549 and 1662. Name Index Biographical Preface. Thesaurus Overall (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (adv.) Everywhere. Multi-Version Concordance Overall (1 Occurrence). Daniel 2:39 And after thee doth rise ... /o/overall.htm - 6k Over-anxious (6 Occurrences) Over-against (156 Occurrences) Resources What are some different methods of Bible study? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a good process for preparing a sermon? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean and when will it happen that every knee shall bow? | GotQuestions.org Overall: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Overall (1 Occurrence)Daniel 2:39 Subtopics Related Terms |
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