Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context In biblical literature, "birth-pains" or "labor pains" are often used metaphorically to describe periods of intense suffering or tribulation that precede a significant event or transformation. This imagery is drawn from the natural process of childbirth, where pain and struggle culminate in the birth of new life. The metaphor is employed in both the Old and New Testaments to convey the idea of impending change or divine intervention. Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, birth-pains are frequently associated with the judgment and deliverance of Israel. The prophets often used this imagery to describe the nation's suffering under foreign oppression or divine judgment, which would eventually lead to redemption and restoration. For example, in Isaiah 26:17-18 , the prophet writes, "As a pregnant woman about to give birth writhes and cries out in her pain, so were we before You, O LORD. We were with child, we writhed in pain, but we gave birth to wind. We have not brought salvation to the earth, nor have the inhabitants of the world been born." New Testament Usage In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles use the metaphor of birth-pains to describe the tribulations that will precede the end times and the coming of God's kingdom. In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus speaks of wars, famines, and earthquakes as "the beginning of birth pains" (Matthew 24:8). This suggests that these events are not the end themselves but are precursors to the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan. The Apostle Paul also employs this metaphor in his epistles. In Romans 8:22 , he writes, "We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time." Here, Paul speaks of the entire creation eagerly awaiting the revelation of the children of God, indicating that the current suffering is temporary and will lead to a glorious future. Theological Significance The metaphor of birth-pains underscores the Christian belief in the transformative power of suffering. Just as labor pains lead to the joy of new life, the trials and tribulations faced by believers are seen as necessary precursors to spiritual growth and the ultimate realization of God's promises. This perspective encourages perseverance and hope, as believers are assured that their present sufferings are not in vain but are part of a divine process leading to redemption and renewal. Eschatological Implications In eschatological terms, birth-pains are often interpreted as signs of the approaching end times. The imagery suggests that the current age is in a state of transition, moving towards the fulfillment of God's kingdom. This understanding calls for vigilance and readiness among believers, as they are urged to remain faithful and steadfast in anticipation of Christ's return. Practical Application For Christians, the concept of birth-pains serves as a reminder of the transient nature of suffering and the hope of future glory. It encourages believers to endure hardships with the assurance that God is at work, bringing about His purposes. This metaphor also calls the Christian community to support one another through trials, recognizing that they are part of a larger narrative of redemption and renewal. Greek 5605. odino -- to have birth pangs, to travail ... birth pains. From odin; to experience the pains of parturition (literally or figuratively) -- travail in (birth). see GREEK odin. (odinousa) -- 2 Occurrences. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5605.htm - 7k Library Suffering the Birth-Pains of a New Life. 1 Cor. xii. 12 Quiet Talks about Jesus Thesaurus Birth-pains (10 Occurrences)Birth-pains. Birth-day, Birth-pains. Birth-pangs . Multi-Version Concordance Birth-pains (10 Occurrences). Galatians ... /b/birth-pains.htm - 9k Pains (59 Occurrences) Merely (30 Occurrences) Pangs (26 Occurrences) Beginning (187 Occurrences) Birth-pangs (2 Occurrences) Warriors (75 Occurrences) Stretching (84 Occurrences) Various (52 Occurrences) Nation (192 Occurrences) Resources Is it wrong to reduce birth pains by taking pain relievers? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the time of Jacob's trouble? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that women will be "saved" through childbearing (1 Timothy 2:15)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Birth-pains (10 Occurrences)Galatians 4:19 Galatians 4:27 1 Thessalonians 5:3 Isaiah 45:10 Jeremiah 4:31 Jeremiah 30:6 Jeremiah 31:8 Jeremiah 48:41 Jeremiah 49:22 Jeremiah 49:24 Subtopics Related Terms |
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