Topical Encyclopedia The concept of behavior in the Bible is closely tied to the moral and ethical conduct expected of believers. The term "behaves" encompasses actions, attitudes, and the overall manner in which individuals conduct themselves in accordance with God's commandments and teachings.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, behavior is often linked to obedience to God's laws. The Israelites were given the Law through Moses, which outlined how they were to behave in various aspects of life. Deuteronomy 5:33 instructs, "Walk in all the way that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess." Here, behavior is directly connected to walking in the ways of the Lord, implying a lifestyle of obedience and reverence. The wisdom literature, particularly the Book of Proverbs, frequently addresses behavior. Proverbs 20:11 states, "Even a young man is known by his actions—whether his conduct is pure and upright." This highlights the importance of behavior as a reflection of one's character and integrity. New Testament Context In the New Testament, behavior is further emphasized as a reflection of one's faith in Christ. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles provide guidance on how believers should conduct themselves. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses behavior in relation to the heart's intentions, urging followers to live righteously. Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." The Apostle Paul frequently discusses behavior in his epistles, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. Ephesians 4:1-2 exhorts, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love." Here, behavior is linked to virtues such as humility, gentleness, and patience, reflecting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. Christian Conduct Christian behavior is characterized by love, humility, and service. The fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23 , includes "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." These attributes are indicative of a life that is aligned with the Spirit and are essential for proper Christian conduct. The Apostle Peter also emphasizes the importance of behavior in witnessing to others. In 1 Peter 2:12 , he writes, "Conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles that, though they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us." This underscores the role of behavior in evangelism and the testimony of a believer's life. Behavior in the Church Behavior within the church community is crucial for maintaining unity and edification. Paul addresses this in 1 Corinthians 14:40 , stating, "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner." Proper behavior in worship and community life reflects the order and peace that God desires for His people. Furthermore, behavior is a key consideration in church leadership. In 1 Timothy 3:2 , Paul outlines the qualifications for overseers, stating, "An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach." Leaders are called to exemplify godly behavior as a model for the congregation. Conclusion The Bible provides comprehensive guidance on behavior, emphasizing that it should reflect one's faith and commitment to God's commandments. Whether in personal conduct, community life, or leadership, behavior is a testament to the transformative work of Christ in a believer's life. Library Whether the Moral virtues Differ in Point of the Various Objects ... Revelation of Paul. If the Scorpion, Swinging his Tail in the Air... God's Peace Obtained in Answer to Prayer The Truth. 'Lovest Thou Me?' Of Divers Friendships of Good and Ill, and if they Can be Loosed ... How Internal Exercises are to be Practised in Times Improper and ... By Faith the Operation of God is Recognised. How a Monk who Has Money Cannot Stay in the Monastery. Thesaurus Behaves (4 Occurrences)...Behaves (4 Occurrences). ... (DBY). Job 15:25 Because he has stretched out his hand against God, and behaves himself proudly against the Almighty; (WEB). ... /b/behaves.htm - 7k Arrogantly (15 Occurrences) Behaved (21 Occurrences) Virginity (12 Occurrences) Vaunts (1 Occurrence) Fist (7 Occurrences) Recompenses (3 Occurrences) Requites (4 Occurrences) Defiance (9 Occurrences) Proudly (23 Occurrences) Resources What is the seven mountain mandate, and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is biblical typology? | GotQuestions.org What is doxastic voluntarism? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Behaves (4 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 7:36 Job 15:25 Psalms 31:23 Proverbs 21:24 Subtopics Related Terms |