Topical Encyclopedia The concept of commencing, or beginning, is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting both the physical act of starting something new and the spiritual implications of new beginnings in the life of believers. The Bible opens with the ultimate commencement: the creation of the world. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This verse sets the stage for the entire biblical narrative, emphasizing God's sovereignty and creative power.Creation and New Beginnings The act of creation itself is a profound commencement, illustrating God's ability to bring order out of chaos. The six days of creation described in Genesis 1 highlight the systematic and purposeful nature of God's work, culminating in the creation of humanity. This initial commencement is foundational to understanding the relationship between God and His creation, as well as humanity's role within it. Commencing Covenants Throughout the Old Testament, God initiates covenants with His people, marking new beginnings in His relationship with them. The covenant with Noah after the flood (Genesis 9:8-17) signifies a fresh start for humanity, with the rainbow as a sign of God's promise never to destroy the earth by flood again. Similarly, the covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3) marks the commencement of a chosen people through whom God would bless all nations. The Exodus and the Promised Land The Exodus represents a significant commencement for the Israelites, as they leave slavery in Egypt and begin their journey to the Promised Land. This event is a powerful symbol of liberation and new beginnings, as God leads His people through the wilderness and establishes them as a nation. The giving of the Law at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19-20) further signifies a new phase in their relationship with God, as they receive His commandments and learn to live as His covenant people. New Testament Commencements In the New Testament, the coming of Jesus Christ marks the commencement of a new covenant. The incarnation, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus represent the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the beginning of a new era of grace and redemption. John 1:1-3 echoes the language of Genesis, stating, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made." The Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) is another pivotal commencement, as the Holy Spirit descends upon the apostles, empowering them to spread the Gospel. This event marks the birth of the Church and the beginning of the Christian mission to the world. Personal and Spiritual Commencements For individual believers, commencing a relationship with Christ is a transformative experience. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This verse encapsulates the essence of spiritual commencement, as believers are born again and begin a new life in Christ. Baptism is a significant rite of commencement in the Christian faith, symbolizing the believer's identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Romans 6:4 explains, "We therefore were buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life." Commencing in Daily Life The Bible encourages believers to approach each day as a new beginning, filled with opportunities to serve God and grow in faith. Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us, "Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!" This passage highlights the continual renewal available to believers, as God's mercies are fresh each day. In summary, the theme of commencing in the Bible encompasses creation, covenants, personal transformation, and daily renewal. It underscores the dynamic nature of God's interaction with His creation and His desire for His people to experience new beginnings in their relationship with Him. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Commence.Greek 2020. epiphosko -- to let shine, ie to dawn ... ie to dawn. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: epiphosko Phonetic Spelling: (ep-ee-foce'-ko) Short Definition: I dawn, am near commencing Definition: I dawn ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2020.htm - 6k Library On Commencing a Church and Cemetery. Constantine's Edict to the People of the Provinces Concerning the ... Love and Law. An Essay on the Scriptural Doctrine of Immortality. Crossing the Hellespont. The Twenty-Second and Twenty-Third Verses The National Preacher, Vol. 2 No. 7 Dec. 1827 The Death of Christ for his People "Because of his Importunity. " Power "In" and "Upon. " Thesaurus Commencing (1 Occurrence)...Commencing (1 Occurrence). Acts 8:35 Then Philip began to speak, and, commencing with that same portion of Scripture, told him the Good News about Jesus. (WEY). ... /c/commencing.htm - 6k Commencement (22 Occurrences) Commend (22 Occurrences) Vale (20 Occurrences) New (1850 Occurrences) Natural (49 Occurrences) Weeks (17 Occurrences) Feast (209 Occurrences) Elam (24 Occurrences) Elamites (2 Occurrences) Resources Commencing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Commencing (1 Occurrence)Acts 8:35 Subtopics Related Terms |