Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, a "railer" refers to an individual who engages in abusive or scornful language, often characterized by harsh criticism or insult. The term is derived from the act of railing, which involves vehemently expressing contempt or reproach. This behavior is consistently condemned in Scripture, as it is contrary to the virtues of love, kindness, and self-control that are central to Christian conduct.Biblical References: 1. 1 Corinthians 5:11 : "But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat." In this passage, the Apostle Paul includes railers (translated as "slanderers" in the) among those whose behavior is incompatible with the Christian community. The instruction to avoid such individuals underscores the seriousness with which this conduct is viewed. 2. 1 Corinthians 6:10 : "nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God." Here, Paul lists railers (translated as "verbal abusers") among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God, highlighting the spiritual consequences of such behavior. 3. 1 Peter 3:9 : "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." This exhortation from Peter encourages believers to respond to railing not with retaliation but with blessing, reflecting the transformative power of Christian love and forgiveness. Theological Implications: The behavior of railing is antithetical to the teachings of Christ, who emphasized love, humility, and the edification of others. The New Testament frequently warns against the use of the tongue for harm, as seen in James 3:6 : "The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell." This vivid imagery underscores the destructive potential of abusive speech. Moral and Ethical Considerations: From a moral standpoint, railing is a manifestation of a heart not fully surrendered to the Holy Spirit. It reflects underlying issues such as pride, anger, and a lack of self-control. Christians are called to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit, which includes gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Therefore, railing is not merely a social faux pas but a spiritual failing that requires repentance and transformation. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to guard their speech and to cultivate a heart that seeks to build up rather than tear down. Ephesians 4:29 advises, "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." This directive serves as a practical guide for Christians striving to align their speech with their faith. In summary, the concept of a railer in the Bible serves as a caution against the misuse of speech and a call to embody the love and grace of Christ in all interactions. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who rails; one who scoffs, insults, censures, or reproaches with opprobrious language.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia RAIL; RAILING; RAILER,ral, ral'-ing, ral'-er: To "rail" on (in modern usage "against") anyone is to use insolent or reproachful language toward one. It occurs in the Old Testament as the translation of charaph (2 Chronicles 32:17, "letters to rail on Yahweh"), and of `it (1 Samuel 25:14, of Nabal, "he railed at them," the English Revised Version "flew upon them," margin "railed on"). In the New Testament "to rail" is the translation of blasphemeo (Mark 15:29 Luke 23:39; "railing," 1 Timothy 6:4 2 Peter 2:11 Jude 1:9). The word loidoria, rendered railing" in 1 Peter 3:9 the King James Version, is in the Revised Version (British and American) "reviling," and loidoros, "railor," in 1 Corinthians 5:11 is in the Revised Version (British and American) "reviler." Greek 3060. loidoros -- abusive, subst. railer ... railer. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: loidoros Phonetic Spelling: (loy'-dor-os) Short Definition: a railer, reviler, abuser Definition: a railer ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3060.htm - 6k 2637. katalalos -- a defamer Library In what Sense we are to Leave the World Ephesians iv. 31 But Although Patience be a virtue of the Mind... Ephesians iv. 32 and v. 1, 2 The Almost Christian December 17 Evening Whether Derision is a Special Sin Distinct from those Already ... Whether Faith Alone is the Cause of Martyrdom? Letter xxix. (AD 395. ) Of Evil-Speaking in General. Thesaurus Railer (1 Occurrence)... language. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. RAIL; RAILING; RAILER,. ral ... RACA. WL Walker. Multi-Version Concordance Railer (1 Occurrence). 1 ... /r/railer.htm - 8k Lewd (37 Occurrences) Whoremonger (4 Occurrences) Fornicator (3 Occurrences) Railed (6 Occurrences) Rail (8 Occurrences) Railing (9 Occurrences) Railers (1 Occurrence) Company (287 Occurrences) Resources Railer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Railer (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 5:11 Subtopics Related Terms |