Definition: The term "railingly" refers to speaking in a mocking, scornful, or abusive manner. It is often associated with verbal attacks or harsh criticism, typically intended to demean or belittle someone. In the context of the Bible, railing is considered a sinful behavior that is contrary to the teachings of love, kindness, and respect.

Biblical References:

1. 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 verse emphasizes the Christian principle of responding to insults or railing not with similar behavior, but with blessings. It underscores the call to rise above verbal abuse and to act in a manner that reflects Christ's teachings.

2. 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 verbal abuser, a drunkard or swindler. With such a man do not even eat." Here, the Apostle Paul includes verbal abusers, or railers, among those whose behavior is inconsistent with Christian values. The instruction to avoid such individuals highlights the seriousness with which railing is viewed within the Christian community.

3. Proverbs 15:1 : "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This proverb contrasts the effects of gentle speech with those of harsh words, such as railing. It suggests that responding with gentleness can defuse potential conflict, whereas railing can exacerbate tensions and lead to further discord.

4. Jude 1:9 : "But even the archangel Michael, when he disputed with the devil over the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, 'The Lord rebuke you!'" This passage illustrates the restraint shown by Michael, the archangel, in refraining from railing against the devil. Instead, he leaves judgment to the Lord, setting an example of humility and respect even in the face of opposition.

Theological Implications:

Railing is seen as a manifestation of the sinful nature that believers are called to overcome. It is often linked with other forms of sinful speech, such as gossip, slander, and deceit. The Bible consistently teaches that words have power and that believers are to use their speech to edify and build up others, rather than to tear them down.

The New Testament, in particular, emphasizes the transformation of the believer's character through the work of the Holy Spirit. This transformation includes the renewal of speech, as seen in Ephesians 4:29 : "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."

Practical Application:

Christians are encouraged to examine their speech and to be mindful of the impact their words have on others. The call to avoid railing is part of a broader exhortation to live in a manner that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ. Believers are urged to cultivate a spirit of gentleness and patience, even when faced with provocation or insult.

In community life, addressing railing involves both personal accountability and communal discipline. Churches are called to foster environments where constructive and loving communication is the norm, and where members hold one another accountable to the standards set forth in Scripture.(adv.) With scoffing or insulting language.

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... I look also to be loaded by thee with disdain, scorn, and contempt; yea, that thou
shouldest railingly and vilifyingly say I lie, and am a bespatterer of ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... one company cometh by the way of the terebinth of the augurs." Zebul, seeing the
affair turn out so well, threw off the mask, and replied railingly, "Where is ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
... to see them, and do call unto them, and tell them that they are in the wrong ways,
and do bid them beware the danger, then they will railingly return them ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

Railingly (2 Occurrences)
...Railingly (2 Occurrences). Jude 1:8 Yet in like manner these dreamers also defile
the flesh, and despise lordship, and speak railingly against dignities. (DBY). ...
/r/railingly.htm - 7k

Railing (9 Occurrences)

/r/railing.htm - 10k

Lordship (12 Occurrences)
... Jude 1:8 Yet in like manner these dreamers also defile the flesh, and despise
lordship, and speak railingly against dignities. (DBY YLT). ...
/l/lordship.htm - 10k

Irrational (3 Occurrences)
... Jude 1:10 But these, whatever things they know not, they speak railingly against;
but what even, as the irrational animals, they understand by mere nature, in ...
/i/irrational.htm - 7k

Railings (2 Occurrences)

/r/railings.htm - 7k

Animals (224 Occurrences)
... Jude 1:10 But these, whatever things they know not, they speak railingly against;
but what even, as the irrational animals, they understand by mere nature, in ...
/a/animals.htm - 37k

Mere (56 Occurrences)
... Jude 1:10 But these, whatever things they know not, they speak railingly against;
but what even, as the irrational animals, they understand by mere nature, in ...
/m/mere.htm - 22k

Nature (80 Occurrences)
... Jude 1:10 But these, whatever things they know not, they speak railingly against;
but what even, as the irrational animals, they understand by mere nature, in ...
/n/nature.htm - 35k

Railingly: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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