Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Awaiting, in a biblical context, refers to the act of waiting with expectation and hope for the fulfillment of God's promises, the return of Christ, or the manifestation of divine intervention. It is a theme that runs throughout Scripture, emphasizing patience, faith, and trust in God's timing. Old Testament References The concept of awaiting is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where the faithful often waited for God's deliverance and promises. For instance, the Israelites awaited deliverance from Egypt, as seen in Exodus 12:42: "It is a night to be observed for the LORD for having brought them out from the land of Egypt; this night is for the LORD, to be observed by all the sons of Israel throughout their generations." The Psalms frequently express a posture of waiting on the Lord. Psalm 27:14 encourages believers: "Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!" This waiting is not passive but involves active trust and hope in God's faithfulness. New Testament References In the New Testament, awaiting takes on a more eschatological dimension, focusing on the anticipation of Christ's return. The early Christians lived with a sense of expectancy for the second coming of Jesus. In 1 Thessalonians 1:10, Paul writes about the Thessalonians: "and to await His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead—Jesus our deliverer from the coming wrath." The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 illustrates the importance of being prepared while awaiting the bridegroom, symbolizing Christ. The wise virgins who were ready when the bridegroom arrived are commended, highlighting the need for vigilance and readiness. Theological Significance Awaiting is a significant aspect of the Christian life, reflecting a posture of hope and trust in God's promises. It involves a recognition of God's sovereignty and timing, acknowledging that His plans are perfect and will come to fruition in His appointed time. Romans 8:25 states, "But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently." The act of awaiting is also tied to the development of character and spiritual maturity. James 5:7-8 encourages believers: "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient for it until it receives the early and late rains. You too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near." Practical Implications For believers, awaiting involves a lifestyle of prayer, watchfulness, and readiness. It calls for a steadfast faith that holds onto God's promises despite circumstances. Hebrews 10:36 reminds Christians: "You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised." In the life of the church, awaiting the return of Christ fosters a sense of urgency in mission and evangelism, encouraging believers to live holy and godly lives as they anticipate the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Titus 2:13 speaks of "awaiting our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ." Conclusion Awaiting, as depicted in the Bible, is an active, hopeful, and expectant posture that characterizes the life of faith. It is a call to trust in God's promises, remain vigilant, and live in anticipation of His ultimate fulfillment of all things. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Await.Greek 2378. thusia -- a sacrifice ... 2378 ("sacrifice") refers to various forms of OT blood sacrifices ("types") -- all awaiting their in their , Jesus Christ (Heb 10:5-12). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2378.htm - 7k 553. apekdechomai -- to await eagerly Library The Work Awaiting the Worker Business Phrases The Realization of Selfless Love Whether Hope is in the Apprehensive or in the Appetitive Power? Introduction Our Deliverance from the Boxers (1900) Paul's Missionary Labors. Thanksgiving to God for Deliverance from the Evils Expected Owing ... Meanwhile, Unconscious of the Miracle his Prayer had Wrought... His Place in History Thesaurus Awaiting (13 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Awaiting (13 Occurrences). ... (DBY). Luke 1:21 And the people were awaiting Zacharias, and they wondered at his delaying in the temple. ... /a/awaiting.htm - 10k Awaits (9 Occurrences) Waiting (274 Occurrences) Jewish (49 Occurrences) Wondered (45 Occurrences) Intimate (12 Occurrences) Imprisonment (15 Occurrences) Idol-worshipper (1 Occurrence) Fornicator (3 Occurrences) Reached (152 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that all creation groans (Romans 8:22)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from Christian martyrs? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible mean when it refers to a “Daughter of Zion”? | GotQuestions.org Awaiting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Awaiting (13 Occurrences)Mark 15:43 Luke 1:21 Luke 2:25 Luke 23:51 John 5:3 Acts 10:24 Acts 20:23 Romans 8:23 1 Corinthians 1:7 Ephesians 5:5 Titus 2:13 Jude 1:21 Jeremiah 3:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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