Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, "association" refers to the relationships and connections individuals form with others, which can significantly influence one's spiritual and moral life. The Scriptures provide guidance on the importance of choosing associations wisely, as they can either lead one closer to God or away from His teachings.Old Testament Insights The Old Testament frequently addresses the impact of associations on one's faith and conduct. In Proverbs 13:20, it is written, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." This verse underscores the importance of surrounding oneself with those who are wise and godly, as their influence can lead to personal growth and wisdom. The Israelites were often warned against forming associations with pagan nations, as these relationships could lead them into idolatry and away from God's commandments. In Deuteronomy 7:3-4, God commands, "Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following Me to serve other gods." This directive highlights the potential spiritual danger of forming close ties with those who do not share the same faith. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to emphasize the significance of associations, particularly within the context of the early Christian community. In 1 Corinthians 15:33, Paul warns, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" This admonition serves as a reminder that negative influences can corrupt one's morals and lead to spiritual downfall. Believers are encouraged to form associations that promote mutual edification and spiritual growth. Hebrews 10:24-25 advises, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage highlights the importance of fellowship and community among believers, as these associations provide support and encouragement in the faith. Jesus and His Associations Jesus Himself demonstrated the importance of associations through His relationships with His disciples and others. He chose twelve disciples to be His closest companions, teaching and guiding them in His ways. Despite criticism, Jesus also associated with tax collectors and sinners, as seen in Matthew 9:10-11, where it is written, "While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, 'Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" Jesus' associations were purposeful, aimed at bringing redemption and transformation to those He encountered. Practical Application The Bible's teachings on association encourage believers to be discerning in their relationships, seeking out those who will positively influence their walk with God. While believers are called to be a light to the world and engage with those outside the faith, they are also urged to maintain strong connections with fellow believers who can provide spiritual support and accountability. Through wise associations, Christians can grow in their faith and fulfill their calling to be salt and light in the world. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The act of associating, or state of being associated; union; connection, whether of persons of things.2. (n.) Mental connection, or that which is mentally linked or associated with a thing. 3. (n.) Union of persons in a company or society for some particular purpose; as, the American Association for the Advancement of Science; a benevolent association. Specifically, as among the Congregationalists, a society, consisting of a number of ministers, generally the pastors of neighboring churches, united for promoting the interests of religion and the harmony of the churches. Greek 3657. homilia -- company, association ... company, association. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: homilia Phonetic Spelling: (hom-il-ee'-ah) Short Definition: intercourse, companionship ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3657.htm - 6k 4862. sun -- with, together with (expresses association with) 4822. sumbibazo -- to join together, hence to consider, by ext. to ... 4347. proskollao -- to glue to, fig. to cleave to 260. hama -- at once 3326. meta -- with, among, after 3658. homichle -- a mist or fog 2819. kleros -- a lot Strong's Hebrew 2274. chebrah -- association, company... association, company. Transliteration: chebrah Phonetic Spelling: (kheb-raw') Short Definition: company. ... company. Feminine of cheber; association -- company. ... /hebrew/2274.htm - 6k 2275. Chebrown -- "association, league," a city in S. Judah 2275a. Chebron -- "association, league," a city in S. Judah 2267. cheber -- company, association, spell 5596. saphach -- to join, attach to 5031. nebiah -- a prophetess 5981. Ummah -- a city in Asher 7454. rea -- purpose, aim 6149. arab -- to be sweet or pleasing Library Association Greek-Amerikan-Christian-Association Anniversary of a Charitable Association. Closing Hymn at an Association. All Association with Idols is to be Avoided. Denunciation of Dangerous and Scandalous Association with Maidens. The Church and Other Rural Agencies The Relation of the Sunday School to Community Organizations Disciples of Christ; Sometimes Called Campbellites, or Reformers. Footnotes: Thesaurus Association (1 Occurrence)... 3. (n.) Union of persons in a company or society for some particular purpose; as, the American Association for the Advancement of Science; a benevolent ... /a/association.htm - 7k Dreamer (4 Occurrences) Dream (82 Occurrences) With (66342 Occurrences) Fasting (34 Occurrences) Fast (157 Occurrences) Nettles (5 Occurrences) Translation (2 Occurrences) Partnership (4 Occurrences) Consort (2 Occurrences) Resources What is the Conservative Baptist Association? What is a Conservative Baptist Church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the National Association of Evangelicals? | GotQuestions.org What is the Regular Baptist Church, and what do Regular Baptists believe? | GotQuestions.org Association: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Association (1 Occurrence)2 Corinthians 6:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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