Topical Encyclopedia The term "sakes" in the Bible is often used in the context of actions or events occurring for the benefit, purpose, or cause of someone or something. It is a word that signifies motivation or reason behind an action, frequently appearing in phrases such as "for the sake of" or "for His name's sake." This entry explores the usage and theological implications of "sakes" within the biblical narrative.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, the concept of doing something "for the sake of" is often tied to God's covenantal promises and His reputation among the nations. For instance, in 1 Samuel 12:22, it is stated, "For the LORD will not forsake His people for His great name’s sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you a people for Himself." Here, the phrase underscores God's commitment to His people, not based on their merit, but for the sake of His own name and glory. Similarly, in Psalm 23:3, the psalmist declares, "He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake." This indicates that God's guidance and restoration are acts that reflect His character and uphold His reputation. New Testament Usage In the New Testament, the term "sakes" often appears in the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles, emphasizing the call to discipleship and the sacrifices associated with following Christ. In Matthew 5:11, Jesus says, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me." Here, the phrase "because of Me" can be understood as "for My sake," highlighting the cost of allegiance to Christ. Furthermore, in Romans 8:36, Paul writes, "As it is written: 'For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.'" This quotation from Psalm 44:22 is used to express the suffering endured by believers for the sake of Christ, underscoring the theme of enduring hardship for the greater purpose of glorifying God. Theological Implications Theologically, the concept of "sakes" in the Bible is deeply connected to the idea of living for God's glory and purposes. Actions taken "for the sake of" God or His name are seen as acts of obedience and devotion, reflecting a life oriented towards divine priorities rather than personal gain. This perspective is central to the Christian understanding of discipleship, where believers are called to deny themselves and take up their cross for the sake of Christ (Matthew 16:24). Moreover, the notion of God acting for His name's sake assures believers of His faithfulness and the certainty of His promises. It emphasizes that God's actions are consistent with His character and that His ultimate purpose is the manifestation of His glory throughout the earth. Conclusion The use of "sakes" in the Bible serves as a reminder of the motivations behind divine and human actions within the biblical narrative. Whether it is God acting for His name's sake or believers enduring trials for the sake of Christ, the term encapsulates a profound theological truth: that all things are ultimately directed towards the glory and purposes of God. Greek 1223. dia -- through, on account of, because of ... charge* (1), constantly (1), continually* (6), during (1), forever* (1), gives (1), means (3), over (1), presence (1), reason (40), sake (41), sakes (5), since ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1223.htm - 8k 5228. huper -- over, beyond, fig. on behalf of, for the sake of ... Strong's Hebrew 5921. al -- upon, above, over... 1), reason (2), reason* (6), received (1), regard (3), regarding (1), respect (1), responsibility (1), ruthlessly* (1), sake (4), sake* (1), sakes (2), settled ... /hebrew/5921.htm - 8k Library The Saints Fled for Our Sakes. It is in the Power of Evil Men to Sin; but to do this or that by ... Our Lord-Sanctifying Himself Exhortations. Religious Patriotism. John xii. 25, 26 2 Cor. I. 6, 7 Exhortations. Tertullian, Having Shown his Defence to be Consistent with ... John Chapter vii. 19-24 Thesaurus Sakes (35 Occurrences)...Sakes (35 Occurrences). Mark 6:26 And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her. ... /s/sakes.htm - 17k Sake (241 Occurrences) Poverty (25 Occurrences) Thanksgiving (49 Occurrences) Reproved (20 Occurrences) Benefit (39 Occurrences) Angered (13 Occurrences) Touching (121 Occurrences) Permitted (31 Occurrences) Behalf (140 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean to rebuke the devourer in Malachi 3:11? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do we celebrate Christmas? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Jesus was a little lower than the angels (Psalm 8:5; Hebrews 2:7)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sakes (35 Occurrences)Mark 6:26 John 11:15 John 12:30 John 17:19 Romans 4:24 Romans 11:28 1 Corinthians 4:6 2 Corinthians 2:10 2 Corinthians 4:15 2 Corinthians 5:15 2 Corinthians 8:9 Philippians 1:24 1 Thessalonians 1:5 1 Thessalonians 3:9 2 Timothy 2:10 Hebrews 6:7 1 Peter 1:20 Genesis 18:26 Leviticus 26:45 Deuteronomy 1:37 Deuteronomy 3:26 Deuteronomy 4:21 Judges 21:22 Ruth 1:13 1 Chronicles 16:21 Psalms 7:7 Psalms 105:14 Psalms 106:32 Psalms 122:8 Isaiah 65:8 Ezekiel 36:22 Ezekiel 36:32 Daniel 2:30 Amos 9:10 Malachi 3:11 Subtopics Related Terms |