Topical Encyclopedia Condescension, in a biblical context, refers to the act of voluntarily descending from one's rank or dignity in order to engage with those of a lower status. This concept is most profoundly illustrated in the character and actions of God, particularly through the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The term itself is not explicitly used in the Bible, but the principle is woven throughout Scripture, demonstrating God's willingness to meet humanity in its fallen state.Divine Condescension The most significant example of condescension is found in the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:6-8 describes this act: "Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Here, the Apostle Paul highlights the humility and self-emptying nature of Christ, who, though fully divine, chose to take on human flesh and experience the limitations and sufferings of humanity. Old Testament Examples In the Old Testament, God's condescension is evident in His interactions with His people. Despite His holiness and transcendence, God communicates with humanity, as seen in His covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3) and His guidance of the Israelites through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21-22). Theophanies, or appearances of God, such as the burning bush encountered by Moses (Exodus 3:2-6), further illustrate God's willingness to reveal Himself in ways that humans can comprehend. The Nature of God’s Condescension God's condescension is not an act of patronization but rather an expression of His love and desire for relationship with His creation. Psalm 113:5-6 states, "Who is like the LORD our God, the One enthroned on high? He humbles Himself to behold the heavens and the earth." This passage emphasizes that God's condescension is a voluntary act of humility, not a necessity imposed upon Him. Human Response to Divine Condescension Believers are called to emulate the condescension of Christ in their own lives. Romans 12:16 instructs, "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but enjoy the company of the lowly. Do not be conceited." This call to humility and service reflects the character of Christ and acknowledges the believer's role in mirroring God's love to others. Condescension in Christian Doctrine The doctrine of condescension is central to understanding the nature of the Gospel. It underscores the grace and mercy of God, who, despite humanity's sinfulness, reaches down to offer salvation. Ephesians 2:4-5 declares, "But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved." This passage highlights the transformative power of God's condescension, which brings life and redemption to those who believe. In summary, condescension in the Bible is a profound demonstration of God's love and humility, exemplified in the life and work of Jesus Christ. It calls believers to a life of humility, service, and love, reflecting the character of God in their interactions with others. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The act of condescending; voluntary descent from one's rank or dignity in intercourse with an inferior; courtesy toward inferiors.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CONDESCENSION, OF CHRISTkon-de-sen'-shun. Strong's Hebrew 6038. anavah -- humility... gentleness, humility, meekness. From anav; condescension, human and subjective (modesty), or divine and objective (clemency) -- gentleness, humility, meekness. ... /hebrew/6038.htm - 6k Library The Condescension of Christ Psalm 8:2. CM Christ's Condescension and Glorification; Or, God ... God's Condescension. God's Condescension to Human Affairs. God's Condescension to Our Worship. Psalm 8 Christ's Condescension and Glorification. God's Condescension to Human Affairs. Other Objections Considered God's Condescension in the Incarnation ... God's Condescension to Our Worship. Psalm 144 Part 2 the Vanity of Man and Condescension of God. Thesaurus Condescension (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. CONDESCENSION, OF CHRIST. kon-de-sen'-shun. See KENOSIS. Multi-Version Concordance Condescension (2 Occurrences). ... /c/condescension.htm - 7k Gentleness (17 Occurrences) Condition (38 Occurrences) Meekness (14 Occurrences) Baggage (15 Occurrences) Bow (248 Occurrences) Condescending (3 Occurrences) Stoop (10 Occurrences) Omnipotence (2 Occurrences) Humility (20 Occurrences) Resources What is misotheism? What is a misotheist? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that God is omniscient? | GotQuestions.org Why do we celebrate Christmas? | GotQuestions.org Condescension: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Condescension (2 Occurrences)2 Samuel 22:36 Psalms 18:35 Subtopics Condescension of God in Reasoning With his Creatures: Sets Forth his Reasons for Sending the Flood Condescension of God: Enters Into Covenant With Abraham Condescension of God: Expostulates With Backsliding Israel Condescension of God: Indulges Abraham's Intercession for Sodom Condescension of God: Indulges Gideon's Tests Condescension of God: Indulges Moses' Prayer to Behold his Glory Condescension of God: Invites Sinners, Saying, "Come Now, and Let Us Reason Together" Condescension of God: Reasons With Job Condescension of God: Reasons With Moses Condescension of God: Scriptures Relating To Condescension of God: Sends Flesh to the Israelites in Consequence of Their Murmuring Condescension of God: Warns Abimelech in a Dream Related Terms |
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