Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, the term "respecter" is often associated with the phrase "respecter of persons," which is used to describe partiality or favoritism. This concept is significant in understanding the nature of God and His dealings with humanity, as well as the ethical expectations placed upon believers.Biblical Usage The phrase "respecter of persons" is derived from the Greek word "prosōpolēmpsia," which means partiality or favoritism. This term is used in several key passages to emphasize God's impartiality and justice. 1. God's Impartiality: One of the most direct statements regarding God as not being a respecter of persons is found in Acts 10:34-35, where Peter declares, "Truly I understand that God is not a respecter of persons, but in every nation, the one who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him" . This passage highlights the universality of God's grace and the inclusivity of the Gospel message, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries. 2. Judgment and Justice: Romans 2:11 states, "For God does not show favoritism" . This underscores the principle that God's judgment is based on truth and righteousness, not on external factors such as social status, ethnicity, or wealth. God's justice is equitable, and He judges each person according to their deeds. 3. Christian Conduct: The concept of not being a respecter of persons is also applied to Christian ethics. James 2:1-4 warns believers against showing favoritism, particularly in the context of wealth and social standing: "My brothers, as you hold out your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, do not show favoritism" . This admonition calls Christians to reflect God's impartiality in their relationships and community interactions. Theological Implications The biblical teaching that God is not a respecter of persons has profound theological implications. It affirms the equality of all people before God, emphasizing that salvation and divine favor are not contingent upon human distinctions. This principle is foundational to the Christian understanding of justice and equality, as it reflects God's character and His desire for all people to come to repentance and faith. Practical Applications 1. Equality in the Church: The church is called to be a community where all members are valued equally, regardless of their background or social status. This is a reflection of the kingdom of God, where earthly distinctions are rendered insignificant. 2. Social Justice: Christians are encouraged to advocate for justice and equality in society, challenging systems and practices that perpetuate discrimination and favoritism. This aligns with the biblical mandate to love one's neighbor and seek the welfare of others. 3. Personal Relationships: On a personal level, believers are urged to examine their own hearts and actions, ensuring that they do not harbor prejudice or favoritism. This involves treating others with fairness, respect, and love, as God does. In summary, the concept of God not being a respecter of persons is a central theme in Scripture, highlighting His impartiality and the call for believers to emulate this attribute in their lives. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who respects.Greek 4381. prosopolemptes -- an accepter of a face, ie a respecter of ... ... an accepter of a face, ie a respecter of persons. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: prosopolemptes Phonetic Spelling: (pros-o-pol-ape'-tace ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4381.htm - 6k Library 'God is no Respecter of Persons' Whether the Old Law Should have Been Given to the Jews Alone? How the Bishop is to Treat the Innocent, the Guilty, and the ... Whether Blindness and Hardness of Heart are Directed to the ... Acts x. 23, 24 The Woman of Samaria Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts On Mutual Subjection {1} --(First Printed in 1744) When a Man Sows, He Expects to Reap. The Motives to this Oversight Thesaurus Respecter (2 Occurrences)...Respecter (2 Occurrences). ... Proverbs 13:13 He who makes sport of the word will come to destruction, but the respecter of the law will be rewarded. (BBE). ... /r/respecter.htm - 7k Persons (156 Occurrences) Respected (28 Occurrences) Opening (242 Occurrences) Inheritance (263 Occurrences) Respect (204 Occurrences) Respecteth (3 Occurrences) Personality True (305 Occurrences) Debt (48 Occurrences) Resources What are the attributes of God? | GotQuestions.orgDoes the Bible give any one individual spiritual authority over another individual? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about confidence? | GotQuestions.org Respecter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Respecter (2 Occurrences)Acts 10:34 Proverbs 13:13 Subtopics Related Terms |
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