Topical Encyclopedia The term "ownself" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of self and individual responsibility is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. The Bible emphasizes the importance of self-examination, personal responsibility, and the relationship between the individual and God.Self-Examination and Personal Responsibility The Bible encourages believers to examine themselves and take responsibility for their actions. In 2 Corinthians 13:5 , Paul writes, "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?" This verse underscores the importance of self-reflection and ensuring one's life aligns with the teachings of Christ. Similarly, Galatians 6:4-5 states, "Each one should test his own work. Then he will have reason to boast in himself alone, and not in someone else. For each one should carry his own load." Here, Paul emphasizes the need for personal accountability and the importance of evaluating one's own actions rather than comparing oneself to others. Individual Relationship with God The Bible also highlights the personal relationship each believer has with God. In Romans 14:12 , Paul writes, "So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God." This verse points to the individual responsibility each person has before God, emphasizing that one's faith and actions are personal matters that will be judged by God. Furthermore, the concept of self-denial is central to the Christian faith. Jesus teaches in Luke 9:23 , "Then He said to all of them, 'If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.'" This call to self-denial is a fundamental aspect of discipleship, requiring believers to put aside their own desires in favor of following Christ. Self in the Context of Community While the Bible stresses individual responsibility, it also places the self within the context of community. Believers are called to love and serve one another, as seen in Philippians 2:3-4 : "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This passage highlights the balance between personal responsibility and communal living, encouraging believers to prioritize the well-being of others. The New Self in Christ The transformation of the self is a key theme in the New Testament. In Ephesians 4:22-24 , Paul instructs believers, "You were taught with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This transformation involves shedding the sinful nature and embracing a new identity in Christ, characterized by righteousness and holiness. In summary, while the term "ownself" is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the Scriptures provide a comprehensive understanding of the self in relation to God, personal responsibility, and community. Believers are called to examine themselves, take responsibility for their actions, and live in a way that reflects their new identity in Christ. Library First, for Thy Thoughts. Brief Directions How to Read the Holy Scriptures once Every Year ... A vindication of Gospel Truths Opened, A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... Memoir of John Bunyan The Doctrine Thesaurus Ownself (1 Occurrence)...Ownself (1 Occurrence). John 17:5 And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thy ownself, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. (WBS). ... /o/ownself.htm - 6k Owns (13 Occurrences) Ownselves (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Ownself (1 Occurrence)John 17:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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