Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Significance: In the biblical context, a promise is a declaration or assurance that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen. Broken promises, therefore, refer to the failure to fulfill such commitments. The Bible places a strong emphasis on the importance of keeping one's word, as it reflects the character and integrity of the individual. Broken promises are seen as a serious moral failing and are often associated with sin and unfaithfulness. Biblical Examples and Teachings: 1. God's Faithfulness vs. Human Unfaithfulness: The Bible consistently contrasts God's unwavering faithfulness with human tendencies to break promises. In Numbers 23:19, it is written, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?" This verse highlights the reliability of God's promises in contrast to human fallibility. 2. The Israelites' Broken Promises: Throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites frequently broke their covenant with God, despite His faithfulness. In Judges 2:1-2, the Angel of the LORD rebukes Israel for not keeping their promise to obey God's commands: "I brought you up out of Egypt and led you into the land I had promised to your fathers. I said, 'I will never break My covenant with you, and you shall not make a covenant with the people of this land, but you shall tear down their altars.' Yet you have not obeyed Me. What is this you have done?" 3. The Importance of Keeping Vows: The Bible underscores the seriousness of making vows and the importance of fulfilling them. Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 advises, "When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it." This passage emphasizes that it is better not to make a promise than to make one and break it. 4. Jesus' Teaching on Oaths: In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of oaths and promises in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5:33-37, He teaches, "Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.' But I tell you not to swear at all... Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one." Jesus emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in speech, suggesting that one's word should be trustworthy without the need for additional oaths. 5. Peter's Denial of Jesus: A poignant example of a broken promise in the New Testament is Peter's denial of Jesus. Despite his earlier declaration of unwavering loyalty, Peter denies knowing Jesus three times (Matthew 26:33-34, 69-75). This incident highlights human weakness and the potential for failure, even among those with the best intentions. Moral and Spiritual Implications: Broken promises are not only a breach of trust between individuals but also a reflection of one's relationship with God. The Bible teaches that faithfulness in keeping promises is a reflection of God's own nature and is expected of His followers. In Psalm 15:4, a righteous person is described as one "who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind." This underscores the value placed on integrity and reliability. Conclusion: While human beings are prone to breaking promises, the Bible calls believers to strive for faithfulness and integrity, mirroring the character of God. Through repentance and reliance on God's strength, individuals can seek to honor their commitments and reflect the trustworthiness of their Creator. Topical Bible Verses Judges 2:1And an angel of the LORD came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, I made you to go up out of Egypt, and have brought you to the land which I swore to your fathers; and I said, I will never break my covenant with you. Topicalbible.org Library Consecration Sin the Mocker What is Your Word Worth? The Final Retrospect Our Guarantee of his Promises. It is Strange that These Delightful Promises Affect us Coldly... He Careth for Thee. Parting Promises and Warnings The Broken Column Barriers Broken Down Resources What is the biblical fix for sexual brokenness? | GotQuestions.orgHow do the elements of the Passover Seder point to Christ? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible mean when it speaks of the breaking of bread? | GotQuestions.org Broken: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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