Topical Encyclopedia Being mean, characterized by unkindness, cruelty, or harshness, is addressed in various ways throughout the Bible. Scripture consistently calls for believers to exhibit love, kindness, and compassion, contrasting sharply with mean-spirited behavior.Old Testament Insights The Old Testament provides numerous examples and teachings against being mean. Proverbs, a book rich in wisdom literature, frequently contrasts the behavior of the righteous with that of the wicked. Proverbs 11:17 states, "A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself." This verse highlights the self-destructive nature of cruelty and the inherent blessings of kindness. The Mosaic Law also emphasizes fair and compassionate treatment of others. Leviticus 19:18 commands, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This commandment underscores the importance of love and forgiveness over meanness and vengeance. New Testament Teachings The New Testament further develops the theme of kindness over meanness, particularly through the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). This radical call to love even those who are mean to us exemplifies the Christian ethic of overcoming evil with good. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his epistles. In Ephesians 4:31-32 , Paul writes, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." Here, Paul contrasts malice and meanness with kindness and forgiveness, urging believers to emulate the grace they have received from God. Examples of Mean Behavior The Bible provides narratives that illustrate the consequences of mean behavior. One notable example is the account of Nabal in 1 Samuel 25. Nabal's harsh and surly demeanor towards David's men nearly leads to disaster for his household. His mean-spiritedness is contrasted with the wisdom and kindness of his wife, Abigail, who intervenes to prevent bloodshed. Another example is found in the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35. The servant, having been forgiven a great debt by his master, refuses to show the same mercy to a fellow servant. His mean-spiritedness results in severe consequences, illustrating the expectation of mercy and forgiveness from those who have received it. The Call to Kindness Throughout Scripture, believers are called to reflect God's character through acts of kindness and love. Colossians 3:12 instructs, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This call to embody virtues that oppose meanness is a recurring theme in the Christian life. The Bible's teachings on being mean serve as a reminder of the transformative power of love and kindness. By adhering to these principles, believers can reflect the love of Christ in a world often marked by harshness and cruelty. Topical Bible Verses Proverbs 15:1A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. Topicalbible.org 1 Peter 2:1-25 Colossians 3:17 Greek 1510. eimi -- I exist, I am ... 1), appear* (1), asserted* (1), become* (5), been (45), been* (1), being (26), belong (3 ... had (8), happen (4), have (2), have come (1), lived (1), mean (1), mean ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1510.htm - 9k 444. anthropos -- a man, human, mankind 1492. eido -- be aware, behold, consider, perceive Strong's Hebrew 120. adam -- man, mankind... adam; ruddy ie A human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.) -- X another, + hypocrite, + common sort, X low, man (mean, of low degree), person. ... /hebrew/120.htm - 6k Library To the Right Hon. Henry Pelham, First Lord Commissioner of the ... Social Recreation. How the Will Being Dead to Itself Lives Entirely in God's Will. The Speaking Voice Introductory Remarks on the Importance of Orthodoxy What is the Divine Gloom? The Divine Dilemma and Its Solution in the Incarnation ... I Desire to Die. How the Purity of Indifference is to be Practised in the Actions ... The Right Hand and the Left. Resources What does the Bible say about being poor? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a man? | GotQuestions.org How can a Christian woman avoid being a diva? | GotQuestions.org Being: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |