Topical Encyclopedia The term "substantial" is not directly found in the text of the Bible; however, the concept of substantiality is woven throughout the Scriptures in various forms, often relating to the ideas of substance, essence, and the foundational truths of the Christian faith. In a biblical context, substantial can refer to that which is real, significant, and of true value, as opposed to that which is fleeting or insubstantial.Substance in Faith and Doctrine The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of having a substantial faith, one that is grounded in truth and not merely superficial. Hebrews 11:1 states, "Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This verse highlights the substantial nature of faith as the foundation of a believer's hope and conviction, even in the absence of visible evidence. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, often contrasts the substantial truths of the Gospel with the empty philosophies and deceitful teachings of the world. In Colossians 2:8 , he warns, "See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ." Here, Paul underscores the substantial nature of Christ's teachings as opposed to the insubstantial doctrines of human origin. Substantiality in God's Promises The promises of God are depicted as substantial and reliable throughout Scripture. In 2 Corinthians 1:20 , Paul writes, "For all the promises of God are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through Him, our 'Amen' is spoken to the glory of God." This assurance of God's promises being fulfilled in Christ provides believers with a substantial foundation for their faith and hope. The Old Testament also reflects on the substantial nature of God's word and promises. In Isaiah 55:11 , God declares, "So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it." This verse emphasizes the effectiveness and substantiality of God's word, which achieves its intended purpose. Substantiality in Christian Living The Bible calls believers to live lives that are substantial, marked by genuine love, righteousness, and good works. In James 2:17 , it is written, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This passage highlights the necessity of a faith that is substantial, evidenced by actions and deeds that reflect the character of Christ. Furthermore, Jesus teaches about the importance of building one's life on a substantial foundation. In Matthew 7:24-25 , He says, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock." This parable illustrates the substantial nature of a life grounded in obedience to Christ's teachings. Substantiality in Eternal Perspective The Bible encourages believers to focus on what is substantial in the eternal sense, rather than being consumed by the temporary and insubstantial things of this world. In 2 Corinthians 4:18 , Paul writes, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." This perspective calls Christians to value the eternal, substantial realities of God's kingdom over the transient concerns of earthly life. In summary, while the word "substantial" may not appear explicitly in the Bible, the concept is deeply embedded in the teachings of Scripture, emphasizing the importance of a faith, life, and hope that are grounded in the substantial truths of God's word and promises. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Belonging to substance; actually existing; real; as, substantial life.2. (a.) Not seeming or imaginary; not illusive; real; solid; true; veritable. 3. (a.) Corporeal; material; firm. 4. (a.) Having good substance; strong; stout; solid; firm; as, substantial cloth; a substantial fence or wall. 5. (a.) Possessed of goods or an estate; moderately wealthy; responsible; as, a substantial freeholder. Library Whether the Substantial Form of the Bread Remains in this ... Whether Light is a Quality? Whether the Species Remaining in this Sacrament Can Change ... Whether in Man There is Another Form Besides the Intellectual Soul ... Whether the Intellectual Soul is United to the Body through the ... Anicius Manlius Severinus Whether the Powers of the Soul Flow from Its Essence? Whether the Essence of the Soul is Its Power? Whether that Fire Will Consume the Other Elements? Whether a Body Can be Active? Thesaurus Substantial (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (a.) Belonging to substance; actually existing; real; as, substantial life. 2. (a.) Not seeming or ... /s/substantial.htm - 7k Kishon (6 Occurrences) Kernel (4 Occurrences) Nahash (9 Occurrences) Firm (111 Occurrences) Form (153 Occurrences) Times (1875 Occurrences) Required (72 Occurrences) Discrepancies Matter (263 Occurrences) Resources What is an infidel? | GotQuestions.orgHow should poetry in the Bible be interpreted? | GotQuestions.org How can the light of stars billions of light years away from the earth have reached us if the earth is only thousands of years old? | GotQuestions.org Substantial: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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