Topical Encyclopedia Complacency, in a biblical context, refers to a self-satisfied state of mind that leads to a lack of vigilance, spiritual growth, or responsiveness to God's will. It is often characterized by a sense of contentment with one's current spiritual state, which can result in neglecting one's duties and responsibilities before God. The Bible warns against complacency, as it can lead to spiritual stagnation and vulnerability to sin.Old Testament References The Old Testament frequently addresses the dangers of complacency, particularly in the context of Israel's relationship with God. In the book of Amos, the prophet warns the Israelites of the perils of complacency, especially among those who are at ease in Zion. Amos 6:1 states, "Woe to those at ease in Zion and to those secure on Mount Samaria, the distinguished ones of the foremost nation, to whom the house of Israel comes." Here, complacency is linked with a false sense of security and a neglect of justice and righteousness. Proverbs also speaks to the dangers of complacency. Proverbs 1:32 warns, "For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them." This verse highlights the destructive nature of complacency, equating it with foolishness and a lack of wisdom. New Testament References In the New Testament, complacency is addressed in the context of spiritual vigilance and readiness for the return of Christ. Jesus Himself warns against complacency in the parable of the ten virgins. In Matthew 25:1-13, five of the virgins are described as wise, having prepared oil for their lamps, while the other five are foolish and unprepared. The parable serves as a caution against spiritual complacency and the importance of being prepared for the Lord's coming. The church in Laodicea is another example of complacency in the New Testament. In Revelation 3:15-17 , Jesus rebukes the Laodicean church: "I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth. You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing,’ but you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked." The Laodiceans' complacency in their spiritual life led to a lukewarm faith, which Jesus found unacceptable. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, complacency is seen as a barrier to spiritual growth and maturity. It reflects a lack of dependence on God and an over-reliance on one's own abilities or status. Complacency can lead to a hardened heart, making it difficult to hear and respond to God's voice. The Bible encourages believers to remain vigilant, to pursue righteousness, and to continually seek a deeper relationship with God. Practical Applications Believers are called to guard against complacency by maintaining a vibrant and active faith. This involves regular prayer, study of Scripture, and engagement in the life of the church. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts believers, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." By fostering a community of accountability and encouragement, Christians can combat complacency and remain steadfast in their faith. In summary, complacency is a significant spiritual danger that the Bible addresses with urgency. Believers are called to remain vigilant, to pursue holiness, and to actively engage in their relationship with God and the community of faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Calm contentment; satisfaction; gratification.2. (n.) The cause of pleasure or joy. 3. (n.) The manifestation of contentment or satisfaction; good nature; kindness; civility; affability. Greek 2107. eudokia -- good pleasure ... eudokia Phonetic Spelling: (yoo-dok-ee'-ah) Short Definition: good-will, favor Definition: (a) good-will (good-pleasure), favor, feeling of complacency of God ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2107.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 7962. shalvah -- quietness, ease... Word Origin from shalah Definition quietness, ease NASB Word Usage complacency (1), ease (2), prosperity (2), quietness (1), time of tranquility (2). ... /hebrew/7962.htm - 6k 8173. sha'a' -- to be smeared over, blinded Library Of the Sacred Complacency of Love; and First of what it Consists. Of the Condolence and Complacency of Love in the Passion of Our ... How by Holy Complacency we are Made as Little Infants at Our ... That Holy Complacency Gives Our Heart to God, and Makes us Feel a ... Of the Loving Condolence by which the Complacency of Love is Still ... Of the Love of Conformity Proceeding from Sacred Complacency. Description of Love in General. Of the Love of Benevolence which we Exercise Towards Our Saviour ... Chapter i. How Holy Benevolence Produces the Praise of the Divine Well ... Thesaurus Complacency (2 Occurrences)... 3. (n.) The manifestation of contentment or satisfaction; good nature; kindness; civility; affability. Multi-Version Concordance Complacency (2 Occurrences). ... /c/complacency.htm - 7k Self-complacency (1 Occurrence) Complacence (1 Occurrence) Transport (18 Occurrences) Removing (24 Occurrences) Mourning (85 Occurrences) Complacent (5 Occurrences) Self-conceit (1 Occurrence) Self-avenger (2 Occurrences) Laban (52 Occurrences) Resources Why did Jesus speak so strongly against lukewarm faith? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about restlessness? | GotQuestions.org Did Jesus mean we should literally pluck out our eyes and cut off our hands in Matthew 5:29-30 and 18:8-9? | GotQuestions.org Complacency: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Complacency (2 Occurrences)Proverbs 1:32 Ezekiel 30:9 Subtopics Related Terms |
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