Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept Returning, in a biblical context, often refers to the act of coming back to a previous state, place, or condition. This concept is deeply rooted in the themes of repentance, restoration, and reconciliation with God. The act of returning is both a physical and spiritual journey, often symbolizing a turning away from sin and a movement towards God. Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the idea of returning is frequently associated with the Israelites' relationship with God. The Hebrew word "shuv" is commonly used, meaning to turn back or return. This is seen in the call to repentance, where the prophets urge the people to return to God and His commandments. For instance, in Joel 2:12-13 , the prophet declares, "Even now," declares the LORD, "return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion." The physical return from exile is another significant theme. The Babylonian exile was a period of great trial for the Israelites, and their return to Jerusalem symbolized not only a physical homecoming but also a spiritual renewal. This is captured in Ezra and Nehemiah, where the rebuilding of the temple and the walls of Jerusalem signify a return to covenant faithfulness. New Testament Context In the New Testament, returning takes on a more personal and spiritual dimension. The Greek word "epistrepho" is often used, meaning to turn around or revert. Jesus' parables frequently illustrate the theme of returning, most notably in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). The prodigal son's return to his father after a period of wayward living is a powerful image of repentance and the welcoming nature of God's forgiveness: "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him" (Luke 15:20). The apostolic teachings also emphasize returning to God through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Acts 3:19 exhorts, "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." Theological Significance Returning is central to the biblical narrative of redemption. It underscores the human need for repentance and the divine offer of grace. The act of returning is not merely a human initiative but is often prompted by God's call and enabled by His grace. The prophets, Jesus, and the apostles all highlight that true returning involves a transformation of the heart and a commitment to live according to God's will. Practical Implications For believers, returning is an ongoing process of aligning one's life with God's purposes. It involves daily repentance, seeking forgiveness, and striving to live a life that reflects the character of Christ. The assurance of God's readiness to receive those who return is a source of hope and encouragement for Christians, emphasizing the boundless nature of divine mercy and love. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Return.Greek 600. apokathistemi -- to restore, give back ... 570 , "separated " and 2525 , "have a definite standing") -- properly, restore back to original standing, ie that existed before a fall; , returning back to ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/600.htm - 8k 1877. epanago -- to put out (to sea), to return 488. antimetreo -- to measure in return 5290. hupostrepho -- to turn back, return 591. apodidomi -- to give up, give back, return, restore Strong's Hebrew 5516. Sisera -- a general of the king of Hazor, also the father of ...... a general of the king of Hazor, also the father of some returning exiles. Transliteration: Sisera Phonetic Spelling: (see-ser-aw') Short Definition: Sisera. ... /hebrew/5516.htm - 6k 5517. Sia -- father of some returning exiles 2216. Zerubbabel -- "begotten in Babylon," a leader of returning ... 5618. Sophereth -- father of some returning exiles 2217. Zerubbabel -- "begotten in Babylon," leader of returning Isr ... 5570. Senaah -- a family of returning exiles 7729. shubah -- retirement, withdrawal 7725. shub -- to turn back, return Library Israel Returning When the Lord to Earth Returning, Returning Our Call. Returning to God. Then Returning to the Words of Peter, "God Made Him Lord and ... Returning from this Digression, St. ... The Soul Returning to God. Finally, if You Think it Right, Returning to Our Inquiry... Gleams of Returning Dawn Praying, Returning Thanks, Worshipping in the Holy Spirit. Thesaurus Returning (37 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Returning (37 Occurrences). Matthew 21:18 Now in the morning as he was returning into the city, he was hungry. (WBS NAS RSV). ... /r/returning.htm - 17k Swallow (38 Occurrences) Esau (89 Occurrences) Returns (27 Occurrences) Ziklag (13 Occurrences) Return (499 Occurrences) Eneneus Ephesus (20 Occurrences) Annual (6 Occurrences) Turning (381 Occurrences) Resources Why is Jesus going to return on a white horse? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Joseph in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to rededicate your life to Christ? | GotQuestions.org Returning: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Returning (37 Occurrences)Matthew 21:18 Mark 7:31 Mark 14:40 Luke 2:43 Luke 7:10 Luke 8:40 Luke 17:18 Luke 24:9 John 13:3 John 16:5 John 20:17 Acts 8:28 Acts 20:3 Hebrews 7:1 1 Peter 3:9 Genesis 8:3 Genesis 18:10 1 Samuel 6:8 1 Samuel 7:3 1 Samuel 7:17 1 Samuel 11:5 1 Samuel 17:15 1 Samuel 18:6 2 Samuel 20:22 2 Chronicles 20:27 2 Chronicles 36:13 Ezra 6:21 Psalms 35:13 Proverbs 17:13 Proverbs 24:26 Proverbs 26:16 Ecclesiastes 1:6 Isaiah 30:15 Isaiah 52:8 Ezekiel 35:7 Hosea 11:7 Micah 2:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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