Topical Bible: By and By

◄ By and By ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The phrase "by and by" is an idiomatic expression that appears in various translations of the Bible, often conveying a sense of time that is not immediate but will occur eventually. In the context of Scripture, it is used to indicate events or actions that will take place in the future, though not necessarily in the distant future. The phrase can be understood as "soon" or "eventually," depending on the context in which it is used.

Biblical Usage

In the Berean Standard Bible , the phrase "by and by" is not directly used, but similar expressions are found that convey the same meaning. The concept is often related to the unfolding of God's plans and the fulfillment of His promises, which may not be immediate but are certain to occur in His perfect timing.

Parables and Teachings of Jesus

The teachings of Jesus often include elements of timing and the unfolding of God's kingdom. For example, in the Parable of the Sower, Jesus explains how the Word of God is received differently by various types of soil, representing the hearts of people. In some translations, the phrase "by and by" is used to describe how certain seeds spring up quickly but wither away due to lack of depth (Mark 4:17, KJV). The BSB translates this passage as: "But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away."

Prophetic Fulfillment

The concept of "by and by" can also be seen in the prophetic literature of the Bible, where prophecies are given that will be fulfilled in God's appointed time. The prophets often spoke of events that would occur in the future, emphasizing the certainty of God's word coming to pass. For instance, the prophecies concerning the coming of the Messiah were fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, though they were spoken centuries before His birth.

Eschatological Implications

In eschatological contexts, the idea of "by and by" is relevant to the anticipation of Christ's return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. Believers are encouraged to live in readiness and expectation, knowing that the fulfillment of God's promises is assured, even if the exact timing is unknown. The Apostle Peter reminds believers of the certainty of the Lord's return, urging them to live holy and godly lives as they look forward to the day of God (2 Peter 3:11-12).

Practical Application

For Christians, the phrase "by and by" serves as a reminder of the importance of patience and trust in God's timing. It encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God's purposes will be accomplished. The Apostle Paul exhorts the Galatians, "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9). This assurance of eventual fulfillment provides hope and motivation for faithful living.

In summary, while the specific phrase "by and by" may not appear in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept it represents is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing the certainty and reliability of God's promises and the importance of trusting in His perfect timing.