Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical teachings, the term "petty" is not directly mentioned in the Scriptures. However, the concept of pettiness can be understood through various biblical principles and teachings that address attitudes and behaviors contrary to the virtues encouraged by Scripture.Definition and Understanding Pettiness generally refers to undue concern with trivial matters, often accompanied by a small-minded or spiteful attitude. It involves focusing on insignificant details or grievances, leading to unnecessary conflict or discord. In a biblical sense, pettiness can be seen as an attitude that detracts from the love, unity, and humility that Christians are called to exhibit. Biblical Principles Against Pettiness 1. Love and Unity: The Bible emphasizes the importance of love and unity among believers. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 , Paul writes, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." Pettiness, which often involves keeping records of wrongs and being easily angered, is contrary to the love described here. 2. Humility and Selflessness: Philippians 2:3-4 instructs, "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." Pettiness often stems from pride and self-centeredness, which are countered by the call to humility and selflessness. 3. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Ephesians 4:31-32 advises, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." Pettiness can lead to bitterness and malice, which are to be replaced with kindness and forgiveness. 4. Avoiding Quarrels: Proverbs 20:3 states, "It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel." Pettiness often results in unnecessary quarrels and disputes, which are discouraged in Scripture. Believers are encouraged to seek peace and resolution rather than engaging in trivial arguments. 5. Focus on the Eternal: Colossians 3:2 encourages believers to "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Pettiness often involves an undue focus on earthly, temporary matters. Christians are called to maintain an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and the kingdom of God over trivial concerns. Examples in Scripture While the term "petty" is not used, certain biblical narratives illustrate the consequences of petty behavior: · The Dispute Among the Disciples: In Luke 22:24-27 , the disciples argue about who among them is the greatest. Jesus rebukes their pettiness by teaching them about true greatness through servanthood. · Miriam and Aaron's Criticism of Moses: In Numbers 12, Miriam and Aaron speak against Moses out of jealousy and pride. Their petty behavior leads to God's displeasure and Miriam's temporary leprosy, highlighting the seriousness of such attitudes. Conclusion The Bible calls believers to rise above pettiness by embodying love, humility, forgiveness, and a focus on eternal values. By adhering to these principles, Christians can foster unity and reflect the character of Christ in their interactions with others. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (superl.) Little; trifling; inconsiderable; also, inferior; subordinate; as, a petty fault; a petty prince.Greek 2485. ichthudion -- a little fish ... of ichthus Definition a little fish NASB Word Usage small fish (2). small fish. Diminutive from ichthus; a petty fish -- little (small) fish. see GREEK ichthus. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2485.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 4705. mitsar -- a small thing... little one while, small. From tsa'ar; petty (in size or number); adverbially, a short (time) -- little one (while), small. see HEBREW tsa'ar. 4704, 4705. ... /hebrew/4705.htm - 6k Library Petty Dishonesty. Night and Day (Preached at the Chapel Royal) Strong Souls. The Shaking of the Heavens and the Earth (Preached at the Chapel ... Deceased was Now that My Evil and Abominable Youth... Letter P He that is Unjust in the Least is Unjust Also in Much. Luke 16:10. The Hermit and the Boy Jacob Jones; Or, the Man who Couldn't Get Along in the World. The Saint Resumes the History of Her Life. Aiming at Perfection. ... Thesaurus Petty (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (superl.) Little; trifling; inconsiderable; also, inferior; subordinate; as, a petty fault; a petty prince. ...Petty (1 Occurrence). ... /p/petty.htm - 6k Tirhakah (2 Occurrences) Pilfer (2 Occurrences) Canaan (102 Occurrences) Canaanites (63 Occurrences) Quartermaster (1 Occurrence) Vain (141 Occurrences) Knavery (2 Occurrences) stingy (1 Occurrence) Nathanael (6 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about pettiness? | GotQuestions.orgIs Richard Dawkins' caricature of the God of the Old Testament accurate? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about strife? | GotQuestions.org Petty: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Petty (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 6:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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