Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "rouses" in the biblical context generally refers to the act of awakening, stirring, or inciting someone or something into action. This concept is often used metaphorically in the Scriptures to describe spiritual awakening or the stirring of emotions and actions by God or individuals. The idea of being roused is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, where it is associated with divine intervention, prophetic calls, and the awakening of spiritual zeal. Old Testament Usage: In the Old Testament, the concept of being roused is frequently linked to God's actions in stirring the hearts of individuals or nations. For example, in the book of Isaiah, God is depicted as rousing Cyrus, the Persian king, to fulfill His divine purposes: "I will raise up Cyrus in My righteousness: I will make all his ways straight. He will rebuild My city and set My exiles free, but not for a price or reward, says the LORD of Hosts" (Isaiah 45:13). Here, the rousing of Cyrus serves as a demonstration of God's sovereign power to direct the affairs of nations for His purposes. The theme of rousing is also evident in the prophetic literature, where prophets are often called to rouse the people of Israel from spiritual complacency and idolatry. The call to awaken and return to the Lord is a recurring motif, emphasizing the need for repentance and renewal. New Testament Usage: In the New Testament, the concept of rousing is closely associated with spiritual awakening and the call to live a life of faith and obedience. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently exhorts believers to awaken from spiritual slumber and to live in the light of Christ's return. In Romans 13:11, Paul writes, "And do this, understanding the occasion. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed" . This call to be roused from spiritual sleep underscores the urgency of living a life that reflects the imminent return of Christ. The New Testament also speaks of the rousing power of the Holy Spirit, who awakens believers to new life in Christ and empowers them for service. The Spirit's work in rousing individuals to faith and action is a central theme in the Acts of the Apostles, where the early church is depicted as being continually stirred by the Spirit to spread the gospel. Theological Significance: The concept of rousing in the Bible carries significant theological implications. It highlights God's active role in awakening individuals and communities to His purposes and the necessity of human response to divine initiative. The call to be roused is a call to vigilance, readiness, and active participation in God's redemptive work in the world. In a broader sense, the theme of rousing serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the need for believers to remain alert and engaged in their faith. It emphasizes the transformative power of God's Word and Spirit to awaken hearts and minds to the reality of His kingdom. Practical Application: For believers today, the biblical theme of rousing serves as an exhortation to remain spiritually vigilant and responsive to God's call. It encourages a life of active faith, characterized by readiness to serve, a commitment to holiness, and a passion for sharing the gospel. The call to be roused is a call to live with an eternal perspective, fully engaged in the mission of God in the world. Library How He who Rouses them for Prayer Ought to Call them at the Usual ... But Perhaps You Will Say to Me: "Why do You Fill Your Paper with ... Chapter i The Works of John Cassian. "That those Grievously Sin who Despise or Neglect God's Gracious ... The Christ of the Gospels. The Exile. The Cripple at Lystra The Third Wall. Seeing, Then, Man's Own Reflections, Even in Spite of the ... Thesaurus Rouses (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Rouses (2 Occurrences). Job 39:18 When she lifts up herself on high, she scorns the horse and his rider. (See RSV). ... /r/rouses.htm - 6k Roused (24 Occurrences) Rousing (3 Occurrences) Excitement (4 Occurrences) Genealogy (29 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Rouses (2 Occurrences)Job 39:18 Isaiah 14:9 Subtopics Related Terms |