Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context In the biblical context, "persuasions" refer to the act of convincing or influencing someone to believe or do something. This concept is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, where persuasion is often linked to faith, doctrine, and moral conduct. Persuasion can be seen as a tool for both good and evil, depending on the intent and truthfulness behind it. Old Testament References While the term "persuasion" itself is not frequently used in the Old Testament, the concept is evident in various narratives. For example, the serpent's persuasion of Eve in Genesis 3:1-6 is a pivotal moment where persuasion leads to the fall of man. The serpent's cunning words convinced Eve to eat the forbidden fruit, demonstrating how persuasion can lead to disobedience and sin. In contrast, the prophets often used persuasion to call the people of Israel back to God. Through their messages, they sought to convince the Israelites to repent and return to the covenant. The persuasive nature of prophetic messages is evident in passages like Isaiah 1:18, where God invites His people to reason together and turn from their sins. New Testament References The New Testament provides a more explicit exploration of persuasion, particularly in the context of spreading the Gospel. The Apostle Paul frequently engaged in persuasion as part of his missionary work. In Acts 18:4 , it is noted, "Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks." Paul's efforts to persuade others were rooted in his deep conviction of the truth of the Gospel and his desire for others to come to faith in Christ. In Galatians 5:7-8 , Paul warns the Galatians about false persuasions: "You were running so well. Who has obstructed you from obeying the truth? Such persuasion does not come from the One who calls you." Here, Paul highlights the danger of being led astray by false teachings and emphasizes the importance of discerning the source of persuasion. The Role of the Holy Spirit In Christian theology, the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in persuasion, particularly in the context of conversion and sanctification. The Spirit convicts individuals of sin and persuades them of the truth of the Gospel. In John 16:8 , Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit's work: "And when He comes, He will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment." Moral and Ethical Implications Persuasion in the Bible is not merely about changing minds but is deeply connected to moral and ethical implications. Believers are called to use persuasion in a manner that aligns with truth and love. Ephesians 4:15 encourages believers to speak the truth in love, growing in every way into Christ. This suggests that persuasion should be exercised with integrity and a genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others. Warnings Against Deceptive Persuasion The Bible also warns against deceptive persuasion, which can lead individuals away from the truth. Colossians 2:4 cautions, "I say this so that no one will deceive you by fine-sounding arguments." Believers are urged to be vigilant and discerning, testing all teachings against the truth of Scripture. Conclusion While persuasion is a powerful tool, its value and impact depend on the truth it conveys and the intent behind it. In the biblical narrative, persuasion is a means by which God calls individuals to Himself, while also serving as a warning against the dangers of false teachings and deceit. Greek 973. biastes -- a violent man ... Cognate: 973 -- positive assertiveness; used of the believer living in faith ("God's inworked persuasions") guiding and empowering them to act forcefully -- ie ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/973.htm - 6k 3453. mueo -- to initiate into the mysteries, hence to instruct 2487. ichnos -- a track 2100. euaresteo -- to be well-pleasing Strong's Hebrew 3948. leqach -- a learning, teaching... Word Origin from laqach Definition a learning, teaching NASB Word Usage instruction (1), learning (2), persuasions (1), persuasiveness (2), teaching (3). ... /hebrew/3948.htm - 6k Library Our Scriptures were Received by Ancient Christians of Different ... On the Lordship or Dominion of God "For if Ye Live after the Flesh, Ye Shall Die, but if Ye through ... A Continuation of Mr Bunyan's Life; Beginning Where He Left Off ... A Continuation of Mr. Bunyan's Life, Beginning Where He Left Off ... Concerning Bernice's Petition to Florus, to Spare the Jews, but in ... Three Afternoons Off the Track Motives from the Difficulties of the Work A Royal-Hearted Exile A Sketch of the Life of S. Gregory of Nyssa. Thesaurus Persuasions (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Persuasions (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 7:21 With her fair words she overcame him, forcing him with her smooth lips. (See NAS). ... /p/persuasions.htm - 6k Persuasion (2 Occurrences) Persuade (20 Occurrences) Persuasive (4 Occurrences) Seducer Resources What does it mean to be saved by grace? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian be a Republican or a Democrat? Should a Christian be a conservative or a liberal/progressive? | GotQuestions.org Why does GotQuestions.org sometimes give questionable recommended resources? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Persuasions (1 Occurrence)Proverbs 7:21 Subtopics Related Terms |
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