The term "cocker" does not appear directly in the Bible; however, it can be explored through its association with the concept of nurturing or indulging, particularly in the context of raising children or animals. The word "cocker" historically refers to the act of pampering or spoiling, often used in relation to children or pets. In a biblical context, this concept can be examined through the lens of parental guidance and discipline.

Biblical Context of Nurturing and Discipline

The Bible provides numerous teachings on the importance of raising children with wisdom and discipline. Proverbs 22:6 states, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse emphasizes the responsibility of parents to guide their children in righteousness, suggesting that indulgence without discipline can lead to a departure from godly ways.

Similarly, Proverbs 13:24 declares, "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently." This passage underscores the necessity of discipline as an expression of love, contrasting with the idea of "cockering" or spoiling a child, which may lead to negative consequences.

Indulgence and Its Consequences

The Bible warns against excessive indulgence, which can lead to moral and spiritual decay. In the account of Eli and his sons, found in 1 Samuel 2:12-17, Eli's failure to restrain his sons' sinful behavior resulted in severe consequences for his family and the nation of Israel. This narrative illustrates the dangers of neglecting discipline and allowing indulgence to prevail.

Furthermore, the Apostle Paul advises in Ephesians 6:4 , "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This instruction balances the need for discipline with the importance of nurturing, avoiding the pitfalls of both harshness and overindulgence.

Application to Christian Living

In Christian living, the concept of "cockering" can be applied to spiritual growth and maturity. Believers are encouraged to exercise self-discipline and avoid indulging in sinful desires. Galatians 5:16 advises, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." This verse calls for a life led by the Spirit, resisting the temptation to indulge in behaviors contrary to God's will.

The principle of avoiding indulgence extends to stewardship and the use of resources. Christians are called to be wise stewards, avoiding the pitfalls of materialism and excess. The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of indulgence and the redemptive power of repentance and return to the Father.

In summary, while the term "cocker" is not explicitly found in the Bible, its implications are addressed through the biblical teachings on discipline, nurturing, and the avoidance of indulgence. These principles guide believers in raising children, managing resources, and living a life that honors God.1. (v. t.) To treat with too great tenderness; to fondle; to indulge; to pamper.

2. (n.) One given to cockfighting.

3. (n.) A small dog of the spaniel kind, used for starting up woodcocks, etc.

4. (n.) A rustic high shoe or half-boots.

COCKER

kok'-er (titheneo, "to nurse," "coddle," "pamper"): Occurs only in Ecclesiasticus 30:9 with the meaning "to pamper": "Cocker thy child, and he shall make thee afraid"; so Shakespeare, "a cockered silken wanton"; now seldom used; Jean Ingelow, "Poor folks cannot afford to cocker themselves."

Heathenism.
... BF Cocker: Christianity and Greek Philosophy; or the Relation between Reflective
Thought in Greece and the Positive Teaching of Christ and his Apostles. ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 11 heathenism.htm

The Life of Mr. Richard Cameron.
... One Andrew Dalziel, a debauchee (a cocker or fowler), who was in the house, it being
a stormy day, cried out, "Sir, we neither know you nor your God." Mr ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of mr richard.htm

Cocker
... 3. (n.) A small dog of the spaniel kind, used for starting up woodcocks, etc. 4.
(n.) A rustic high shoe or half-boots. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. COCKER...
/c/cocker.htm - 7k

Cockle (1 Occurrence)

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Cock-crowing (3 Occurrences)
Cock-crowing. Cockcrowing, Cock-crowing. Cocker . Easton's Bible Dictionary ...
Cockcrowing, Cock-crowing. Cocker . Reference Bible.
/c/cock-crowing.htm - 8k

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