Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, reproof is often associated with correction, discipline, and guidance. It is a concept that underscores the importance of receiving correction as a means of personal and spiritual growth. The metaphor of reproof as "an excellent oil" is particularly evocative, suggesting that just as oil is used for anointing and healing, so too is reproof beneficial for the soul.Biblical Foundation The imagery of reproof as an excellent oil is drawn from Psalm 141:5, which states: "Let a righteous man strike me—it is kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head; let my head not refuse it. For my prayer is ever against the deeds of the wicked" . This verse highlights the value of receiving correction from a righteous person, likening it to a soothing and beneficial oil. The psalmist acknowledges that such reproof is an act of kindness and a means of spiritual refinement. The Nature of Reproof Reproof, in the biblical sense, is not merely criticism or condemnation. It is a constructive and loving act intended to guide individuals back to the path of righteousness. Proverbs 27:5-6 further illustrates this principle: "Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful" . Here, the emphasis is on the sincerity and faithfulness of reproof when it comes from a friend, contrasting it with the deceit of superficial flattery. Spiritual Significance The metaphor of reproof as oil suggests several layers of meaning. Oil in the Bible is often associated with anointing, healing, and consecration. In this light, reproof serves as a spiritual anointing, setting individuals apart for holiness and aligning them with God's will. It acts as a healing balm, addressing the spiritual maladies that may hinder one's relationship with God. Wisdom and Acceptance The acceptance of reproof is a mark of wisdom and maturity. Proverbs 9:8-9 advises, "Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning" . This passage underscores the idea that the wise and righteous are those who embrace correction, recognizing it as a tool for growth and learning. Role in Community Reproof also plays a crucial role within the Christian community. It is a means of maintaining purity and accountability among believers. In Matthew 18:15-17, Jesus outlines a process for addressing sin within the church, emphasizing the importance of reproof in restoring a wayward brother or sister. This process reflects the communal responsibility to uphold righteousness and support one another in the faith journey. Conclusion Reproof, when understood as an excellent oil, is a profound biblical concept that emphasizes the transformative power of correction. It is an essential aspect of spiritual growth, wisdom, and community life, offering believers a path to deeper holiness and alignment with God's purposes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 141:5Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Ship on Fire --A Voice of Warning The Hidden Treasure. 1 Cor. xi. 17 Letter Lv. Replies to Questions of Januarius. The Death and the Raising of Lazarus - the Question of Miracles ... Book vi. It is with a Full Knowledge of the Dangers and Passions ... Life of Bunyan English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. A Canticle of Love The Doctrine Resources Do Proverbs 26:4 and 26:5 contradict? How can both verses be true? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the different theories of biblical inspiration? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Holy Spirit will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment? | GotQuestions.org Reproof: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Reproof of Those Who offend, a Warning to Others Reproof: A Proof of Faithful Friendship Reproof: Attention to a Proof of Prudence Reproof: Christ Gives, in Love Reproof: Contempt of, Leads to Remorse Reproof: Declared to Be: An Excellent Oil Reproof: Declared to Be: Better than Secret Love Reproof: Declared to Be: Better than the Praise of Fools Reproof: Declared to Be: More Profitable to Saints, than Stripes to a Fool Reproof: Despised by the Israelites Reproof: Despised by the Jewish Leaders Reproof: Despised by the People of Nazareth Reproof: Eventually Brings More Respect than Flattery Reproof: Faithfulness in a Prophet of Judah, of Jeroboam Reproof: Faithfulness in Amos, of the Israelites Reproof: Faithfulness in Azariah, of Asa Reproof: Faithfulness in Azariah, of Uzziah Reproof: Faithfulness in Daniel, of Belshazzar Reproof: Faithfulness in Daniel, of Nebuchadnezzar Reproof: Faithfulness in Elijah, of Ahab Reproof: Faithfulness in Elijah, of Ahaziah Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Gehazi Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Hazael Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Jehoram Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Jeroboam Reproof: Faithfulness in Ezra, of the Men of Judah and Benjamin Reproof: Faithfulness in Hanani, of Asa Reproof: Faithfulness in Isaiah, of Hezekiah Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Tribe of Benjamin Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Two and One-Half Tribes Reproof: Faithfulness in Jehoash, of Jehoiada Reproof: Faithfulness in Jehu, of Jehoshaphat Reproof: Faithfulness in Jeremiah, of the Cities of Judah Reproof: Faithfulness in Jesus Reproof: Faithfulness in Jesus, of the Pharisees Reproof: Faithfulness in Jesus, of the Scribes and Pharisees Reproof: Faithfulness in Joab, of David Reproof: Faithfulness in John the Baptist, of Herod Antipas Reproof: Faithfulness in John the Baptist, of the Jews Reproof: Faithfulness in Jonathan, of Saul Reproof: Faithfulness in Micaiah, of Ahab Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of Eleazar Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of Korah Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of Pharaoh Reproof: Faithfulness in Moses, of the Israelites Reproof: Faithfulness in Nathan, of David Reproof: Faithfulness in Nehemiah, of the Jews Reproof: Faithfulness in Oded, of the People of Samaria Reproof: Faithfulness In of the Barren Fig Tree Reproof: Faithfulness In of the King's Feast Reproof: Faithfulness In of the Two Sons Reproof: Faithfulness In of the Vineyard Reproof: Faithfulness in Paul and Silas, of the Magistrates of Philippi Reproof: Faithfulness in Paul, of Ananias, the High Priest Reproof: Faithfulness in Paul, of Elymas (Bar-Jesus), the Sorcerer Reproof: Faithfulness in Peter, of Simon, the Sorcerer Reproof: Faithfulness in Samuel, of Saul Reproof: Faithfulness in Shemaiah, of Rehoboam Reproof: Faithfulness in Stephen, of the High Priest Reproof: Faithfulness in The Prophet Gad, of David Reproof: Faithfulness in The Withering of the Fig Tree Reproof: Faithfulness in Zechariah, of the Princes of Judah Reproof: General Scriptures Concerning Reproof: God Gives Reproof to his own Children Reproof: God Gives, to the Wicked Reproof: Hatred of, a Proof of Brutishness Reproof: Hatred of, Leads to Destruction Reproof: Hypocrites not Qualified to Give Reproof: Leads to Understanding Reproof: Ministers are Empowered to Give Reproof: Ministers are Sent to Give Reproof: Ministers should Give with all Authority Reproof: Ministers should Give with Christian Love Reproof: Ministers should Give with Longsuffering Reproof: Ministers should Give: Fearlessly Reproof: Ministers should Give: Openly Reproof: Ministers should Give: Sharply, If Necessary Reproof: Ministers should Give: Unreservedly Reproof: On Account of Fearfulness Reproof: On Account of Hardness of Heart Reproof: On Account of Hypocrisy Reproof: On Account of Impenitence Reproof: On Account of not Understanding Reproof: On Account of Oppressing out Brethren Reproof: On Account of Reviling Christ Reproof: On Account of Sinful Practices Reproof: On Account of Unbelief Reproof: On Account of Unruly Conduct Reproof: On Account of Vain Boasting Reproof: Rejection of, Leads to Error Reproof: Saints should Delight in Those Who Give Reproof: Saints should Give No Occasion For Reproof: Saints should Love Those Who Give Reproof: Saints should Receive Kindly Reproof: The Holy Spirit Gives Reproof: The Scriptures are Profitable For Reproof: They Who Give, are Hated by Scorners Reproof: when from God is Despised by the Wicked Reproof: when from God is for Correction Reproof: when from God: Pray That It be not be in Anger Reproof: when from God: should be Accompanied by Exhortation to Repentance Reproof: when from God: should not Discourage Saints Related Terms |
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