Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "sided" is not directly found as a standalone word in the Bible; however, it can be understood in the context of taking sides or aligning oneself with a particular group, belief, or action. This concept is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, where individuals and groups often choose sides in matters of faith, allegiance, and obedience to God. Biblical Instances and Themes: 1. Choosing Sides in Faith and Obedience: The Bible frequently presents scenarios where individuals must choose between following God or turning to other paths. One of the most prominent examples is found in the account of Joshua. As he led the Israelites into the Promised Land, Joshua challenged the people to choose whom they would serve. In Joshua 24:15 , he declares, "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." 2. Divine Siding: The Bible also illustrates instances where God Himself takes sides, often siding with the righteous and those who are faithful to Him. In the account of David and Goliath, God sides with David, a young shepherd boy, against the Philistine giant, Goliath. David's faith and reliance on God lead to a miraculous victory, demonstrating that God supports those who trust in Him (1 Samuel 17). 3. Siding with Righteousness vs. Wickedness: The Scriptures often contrast the paths of righteousness and wickedness, urging believers to side with righteousness. Psalm 1:1-2 states, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night." This passage highlights the importance of aligning oneself with God's law and avoiding the influence of the wicked. 4. New Testament Teachings on Division and Allegiance: In the New Testament, Jesus speaks about the division that His message will bring, as people must choose to follow Him or reject Him. In Matthew 10:34-36 , Jesus says, "Do not assume that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. A man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’" This passage underscores the reality that following Christ may require difficult choices and the taking of sides, even within one's own family. 5. The Apostolic Era and Early Church: The early church faced numerous challenges that required believers to take sides, particularly in matters of doctrine and practice. The Council of Jerusalem, as recorded in Acts 15, is an example where the apostles and elders had to decide on the issue of Gentile circumcision, ultimately siding with the view that Gentile believers were not required to follow the Mosaic Law in its entirety. Theological Implications: The concept of siding in the Bible is deeply tied to themes of loyalty, faithfulness, and the pursuit of righteousness. Believers are called to align themselves with God's will, often in opposition to worldly values and pressures. This alignment is not merely a passive stance but an active choice that reflects one's commitment to God's kingdom and His purposes. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (imp. & p. p.) of Side.2. (a.) Having (such or so many) sides; -- used in composition; as, one-sided; many-sided. Greek 1510. eimi -- I exist, I am ... have (2), have come (1), lived (1), mean (1), mean* (2), means (7), meant (2), originate (1), owns (1), remain (3), remained (1), rest (1), sided (1), stayed ( ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1510.htm - 9k Strong's Hebrew 7243. rebii -- fourth... Word Origin from the same as arba Definition fourth NASB Word Usage four-sided (1), fourth (51), one-fourth (1), square (1). foursquare, fourth part. ... /hebrew/7243.htm - 6k 7251. raba -- to square 2549. chamishi -- fifth 6760. tsala -- to limp Library The Many-Sided Contrast of Wisdom and Folly Love Many-Sided. October 19. Foreword to the Second Edition 'A Greater than Solomon' Partial Weavings of the Strands. Evening of the Third Day in Passion-Week-On the Mount of Olives ... Judging, Asking, and Giving Fire on Earth Whether Many Habits Can be in one Power? A Servant of Men Thesaurus Sided (4 Occurrences)... & pp) of Side. 2. (a.) Having (such or so many) sides; -- used in composition; as, one-sided; many-sided. Multi-Version Concordance Sided (4 Occurrences). ... /s/sided.htm - 7k Many-sided (1 Occurrence) Five-sided (1 Occurrence) Four-sided (1 Occurrence) Foursquare (10 Occurrences) Asmoneans Side-chambers (10 Occurrences) Fourscore (33 Occurrences) Fix (36 Occurrences) Quarrel (22 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about toxic relationships? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that God draws us to salvation? | GotQuestions.org Is faith in God religulous? | GotQuestions.org Sided: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sided (4 Occurrences)Acts 14:4 1 Samuel 20:30 1 Samuel 22:17 2 Chronicles 11:13 Subtopics Related Terms |
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