Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: Boasting, in the biblical context, refers to speaking with excessive pride and self-satisfaction about one's achievements, possessions, or abilities. It is often associated with arrogance and a lack of humility, which are contrary to the virtues encouraged in Scripture. The Bible frequently addresses the issue of boasting, highlighting its spiritual implications and the attitude of the heart behind it. Old Testament References: In the Old Testament, boasting is often linked with pride and self-reliance, which are condemned by God. For instance, in Jeremiah 9:23-24 , the Lord declares, "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth, for I delight in these things, declares the LORD." This passage emphasizes that true boasting should be in the knowledge and understanding of God, rather than in human attributes or achievements. New Testament Teachings: The New Testament continues to address the issue of boasting, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In 1 Corinthians 1:31 , Paul echoes the Old Testament sentiment by stating, "Therefore, as it is written: 'Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.'" This reflects the idea that any boasting should be directed towards God's work and character, rather than personal accomplishments. In Ephesians 2:8-9 , Paul further explains that salvation is a gift from God, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This underscores the principle that human efforts are insufficient for salvation, and thus, there is no room for boasting in one's own deeds. Spiritual Implications: Boasting is often seen as a manifestation of pride, which is considered a sin that distances individuals from God. James 4:16 warns, "As it is, you boast in your proud intentions. All such boasting is evil." This highlights the moral and spiritual dangers of boasting, as it reflects a heart that is not aligned with God's will. Positive Aspects of Boasting: While boasting is generally viewed negatively, the Bible does allow for a form of boasting that is centered on God and His works. In Galatians 6:14 , Paul writes, "But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." Here, boasting is redirected towards the redemptive work of Christ, which is a source of true pride and joy for believers. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to cultivate humility and to recognize that all good things come from God. Proverbs 27:2 advises, "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth—a stranger, and not your own lips." This wisdom encourages individuals to refrain from self-praise and to allow others to acknowledge their achievements, thereby fostering a spirit of humility and gratitude. In summary, the biblical perspective on boasting is clear: it is to be avoided when it centers on self, but embraced when it glorifies God and acknowledges His sovereignty and grace. Greek 850a. aucheo -- to boast ... to boast. Transliteration: aucheo Short Definition: boasts. Word Origin from auche (boasting) Definition to boast NASB Word Usage boasts (1). 850, 850a. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/850a.htm - 5k 212. alazoneia -- boastfulness 2744. kauchaomai -- to boast Strong's Hebrew 907. bad -- empty, idle talk... 906, 907. bad. 908 . empty, idle talk. Transliteration: bad Phonetic Spelling: (bad) Short Definition: boasts. Word Origin from ... /hebrew/907.htm - 6k 1984b. halal -- to be boastful, to praise Library On the Letter of Pelagius, in which He Boasts that his Errors had ... Whether Boasting is a Mortal Sin? The Tenth Book Discusses the Unattainable and Incomprehensible Thou Shalt have no Other Gods Before Me. If, Then, You Really Intend to do an Act of Repentance for those ... Celts and Celtophiles As to Your Charge of Perjury, Since You Refer Me to Your Book; and ... Whether Boasting is Opposed to the virtue of Truth? You Observe How New and Terrible a Form of Oath this is which He ... "Boast not Thyself of To-Morrow, for Thou Knowest not what a Day ... Thesaurus Boasts (18 Occurrences)...Boasts (18 Occurrences). 1 Corinthians 1:31 that, according as it is written, "He who boasts, let him boast in the Lord." (WEB WEY DBY NAS RSV NIV). ... /b/boasts.htm - 11k Boast (86 Occurrences) Kindles (6 Occurrences) Luxury (8 Occurrences) Goliath (6 Occurrences) Greedy (24 Occurrences) Flattering (11 Occurrences) Revel (6 Occurrences) Revelled (2 Occurrences) Renounces (2 Occurrences) Resources Who are the super-apostles Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 11:5? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to boast in the Lord? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about an out of body experience / astral projection? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Boasts (18 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 1:31 2 Corinthians 10:17 James 3:5 2 Peter 2:18 Revelation 18:7 1 Samuel 2:1 Job 11:3 Psalms 10:3 Psalms 12:3 Proverbs 20:14 Proverbs 25:14 Isaiah 16:6 Jeremiah 9:24 Jeremiah 48:30 Daniel 7:8 Daniel 7:20 Hosea 12:8 Zephaniah 2:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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