Topical Encyclopedia Subsistence, in a biblical context, refers to the means by which individuals or communities sustain life, particularly through the provision of food, water, and other necessities. The concept of subsistence is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, reflecting God's provision and the human responsibility to work and steward resources.Divine Provision The Bible consistently emphasizes God's role as the ultimate provider of all necessities. In Genesis 1:29, God provides for humanity by giving "every seed-bearing plant on the face of all the earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it" for food. This initial provision underscores the abundance and sufficiency of God's creation for human sustenance. In the wilderness, God provided manna and quail for the Israelites, demonstrating His ability to sustain His people even in desolate conditions (Exodus 16:4-15). This miraculous provision is a testament to God's faithfulness and care, as Moses reminds the Israelites in Deuteronomy 8:3, "He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD." Human Responsibility While God provides, the Bible also emphasizes human responsibility in working for sustenance. In Genesis 2:15, Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it," indicating that labor is an integral part of God's design for humanity. The Apostle Paul reiterates this principle in 2 Thessalonians 3:10, stating, "If anyone is not willing to work, neither shall he eat." The Proverbs offer wisdom on diligence and hard work as means of ensuring subsistence. Proverbs 12:11 declares, "He who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies lacks judgment." This highlights the importance of industriousness and prudent management of resources. Stewardship and Generosity Subsistence is also linked to the biblical principle of stewardship. Believers are called to manage resources wisely and to share with those in need. In 1 Timothy 6:17-18, Paul instructs the wealthy "to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share." This reflects the understanding that God's provision is not only for personal sustenance but also for the benefit of the community. The early church exemplified this communal approach to subsistence in Acts 2:44-45, where "all the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need." This practice underscores the importance of generosity and mutual support within the body of Christ. Faith and Trust Ultimately, subsistence in the biblical sense is rooted in faith and trust in God's provision. Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:31-33, "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'... But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This passage encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God, trusting that He will meet their needs. In summary, the biblical concept of subsistence encompasses divine provision, human responsibility, stewardship, generosity, and faith. It reflects a holistic approach to sustaining life, grounded in the understanding that God is the ultimate source of all that is necessary for life and godliness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) That which furnishes support to life; means of support; livelihood; as, a meager subsistence.2. (n.) Real being; existence. 3. (n.) Inherency; as, the subsistence of qualities in bodies. 4. (n.) Same as Hypostasis, 2. Greek 1967. epiousios -- for the coming day, for subsistence ... for the coming day, for subsistence. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: epiousios Phonetic Spelling: (ep-ee-oo'-see-os) Short Definition: for the morrow ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1967.htm - 7k 5223. huparxis -- subsistence, existence, property 3993. penes -- one who works for his living Library Concerning the one Compound Subsistence of God the Word. Whether "Person" is the Same as Hypostasis, Subsistence, and ... In Reply to the Question Whether There is Nature that Has no ... In Reply to those who Ask if Christ's Subsistence is Create or ... Now the Person in Each Declares the Independent Being and ... Concerning the Nature as viewed in Species and in Individual, and ... In Reply to those who Ask Whether the Natures of the Lord are ... Concerning the Fact that the Divinity of the Word Remained ... That in one of Its Subsistences the Divine Nature is United in Its ... Concerning the Number of the Natures. Thesaurus Subsistence (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) That which furnishes support to life; means of support; livelihood; as, a meager subsistence. ...Subsistence (2 Occurrences). ... /s/subsistence.htm - 7k Person (807 Occurrences) Sabbatical (1 Occurrence) Trinity Subsist (10 Occurrences) Year (4027 Occurrences) Victual (6 Occurrences) Need (914 Occurrences) Living (3112 Occurrences) Livelihood (3 Occurrences) Resources What is the Oriental Orthodox Church? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Lamech think Noah would bring comfort (Genesis 5:29)? | GotQuestions.org What is the doctrine of eternal generation and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org Subsistence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Subsistence (2 Occurrences)Hebrews 1:3 2 Peter 3:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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