Topical Encyclopedia Definition: Positive influence refers to the ability to affect others in a beneficial and uplifting manner, encouraging them to grow in faith, character, and righteousness. In the context of the Bible, it involves living a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ and inspires others to follow His example.Biblical Foundation: 1. Salt and Light: Jesus Christ emphasized the importance of being a positive influence in the world through the metaphor of salt and light. In Matthew 5:13-16 , He states, "You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden." This passage underscores the responsibility of believers to preserve goodness and illuminate truth in a world often characterized by moral decay and darkness. 2. Exemplary Conduct: The Apostle Paul frequently encouraged believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. In Philippians 2:14-15 , he writes, "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world." Here, Paul highlights the transformative power of a life lived in accordance with God's will. 3. Encouragement and Edification: Positive influence also involves building up others in the faith. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 , Paul exhorts, "Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing." This reflects the communal aspect of Christianity, where believers are called to support and strengthen one another. 4. Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in enabling believers to be a positive influence. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are essential for impacting others positively and are cultivated through a close relationship with God. 5. Witness through Actions: James 2:17 states, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This emphasizes that positive influence is not merely about words but is demonstrated through actions that reflect genuine faith and commitment to God's commandments. Examples of Positive Influence in Scripture: · Joseph: Despite facing numerous adversities, Joseph remained faithful to God and became a source of blessing to those around him, including the Egyptians and his own family (Genesis 39-50). · Daniel: Daniel's unwavering faith and integrity in a foreign land influenced kings and led to the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty (Daniel 6). · Esther: Esther's courage and wisdom in the face of danger saved her people and demonstrated the power of standing firm in one's convictions (Esther 4-7). Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to seek opportunities to positively influence others in their daily lives. This can be achieved through acts of kindness, sharing the Gospel, living a life of integrity, and being a source of encouragement and support to those in need. By doing so, Christians fulfill their calling to be ambassadors of Christ, reflecting His love and truth to a world in need of hope and redemption. Topical Bible Verses 3 John 1:11Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that does good is of God: but he that does evil has not seen God. Topicalbible.org Library The Daily Walk with Others (ii. ). "That Other Disciple" Prayer is Projecting One's Spirit Personality. Conclusion A Stubborn Foe Routed. The Allies of the Tempter. Distinction Between Positive (Material) and Negative (Formal) ... The Influence of Dionysius in Religious History The Positive Side Jacob Boehme's Influence in England Resources How much influence is the Bible supposed to have on society? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Hellenism, and how did it influence the early church? | GotQuestions.org Who was Plato? How did Platonism / Platonic thought influence society in Bible times? | GotQuestions.org Influence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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