Topical Encyclopedia Cavil refers to the act of raising trivial and frivolous objections, often with the intent to confuse or entangle rather than to seek truth or understanding. In a biblical context, caviling is seen as a negative behavior, often associated with those who oppose or misunderstand the teachings of Scripture. It is characterized by a contentious spirit that seeks to dispute or criticize without genuine cause.Biblical Instances and Implications While the term "cavil" itself does not appear in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept is evident in various biblical narratives where individuals or groups challenge God's messengers or His Word with insincere or petty objections. 1. Pharisees and Sadducees: The religious leaders of Jesus' time often engaged in caviling. They frequently questioned Jesus with the intent to trap Him in His words or to find fault with His teachings. For example, in Matthew 22:15-18 , the Pharisees plotted to entangle Jesus in His words, asking Him about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus, aware of their malice, called them out for their hypocrisy. 2. Job's Friends: In the Book of Job, Job's friends can be seen as caviling when they insist on simplistic explanations for his suffering, refusing to accept Job's integrity and the complexity of his situation. Their arguments are often based on assumptions rather than understanding, as seen in Job 4-5 . 3. Paul's Opponents: The Apostle Paul faced caviling from both Jews and Gentiles who opposed his message. In Acts 17:32 , when Paul spoke of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked him, while others expressed a dismissive curiosity, saying, "We want to hear you again on this subject." Theological Reflection Caviling is often rooted in pride, a refusal to submit to divine authority, or a desire to maintain one's own position or beliefs at the expense of truth. It reflects a heart that is not open to the transformative power of God's Word. Proverbs 18:2 warns, "A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions." Practical Application Believers are called to avoid the spirit of caviling by cultivating humility and a sincere desire for truth. James 1:19-20 advises, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man's anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires." Christians are encouraged to engage in discussions with a spirit of love and understanding, seeking to build up rather than tear down. Conclusion Caviling, as seen through the lens of Scripture, is a behavior that detracts from genuine faith and understanding. It serves as a cautionary example for believers to approach God's Word and each other with sincerity, humility, and a desire for truth. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To raise captious and frivolous objections; to find fault without good reason.2. (v. t.) To cavil at. 3. (n.) A captious or frivolous objection. Greek 4802. suzeteo -- to examine together, hence to dispute ... From sun and zeteo; to investigate jointly, ie Discuss, controvert, cavil -- dispute (with), enquire, question (with), reason (together). see GREEK sun. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4802.htm - 7k Library The Absurd Cavil of the Ass's Head Disposed Of. He Replies to the Cavil that the one who is Born must be of one ... Simon's Cavil. Another Cavil Met, IE , the Devil who Instigated Man to Sin ... Another Cavil Answered, IE , the Fall Imputable to God, Because ... The Heretics Called the Flesh "The Vessel of the Soul," in Order ... God's Purposes in Election and Rejection of the Same Men, Such as ... Christ was Truly Born; Marcion's Absurd Cavil in Defence of a ... The Rich Women of Piety who Followed Jesus Christ's Teaching by ... If God had Anyhow Checked Man's Liberty, Marcion Would have Been ... Thesaurus Cavil (2 Occurrences)... 1. (vi) To raise captious and frivolous objections; to find fault without good reason. 2. (vt) To cavil at. ... Multi-Version Concordance Cavil (2 Occurrences). ... /c/cavil.htm - 7k Quarrel (22 Occurrences) Uttering (10 Occurrences) Exception (6 Occurrences) Difficulty (12 Occurrences) Moulded (2 Occurrences) Mere (56 Occurrences) Cave's (2 Occurrences) Contradictions (1 Occurrence) Cavilleth (1 Occurrence) Resources Cavil: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cavil (2 Occurrences)Luke 5:21 Romans 9:20 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |