Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: To dissuade is to persuade someone not to take a particular course of action. In the context of the Bible, dissuasion often involves moral or spiritual guidance, encouraging individuals to turn away from sin or unwise decisions. Biblical Instances and Themes: 1. Moses and Pharaoh's Magicians: In the book of Exodus, Moses is sent by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Pharaoh's magicians attempt to dissuade Pharaoh from letting the Israelites go by replicating some of the miracles Moses performs. However, their efforts ultimately fail as God's power is demonstrated through Moses. This narrative highlights the futility of opposing God's will and the importance of heeding divine instruction (Exodus 7-11). 2. Job's Friends: In the Book of Job, Job's friends attempt to dissuade him from maintaining his integrity by suggesting that his suffering is due to personal sin. They argue that he should repent to restore his fortunes. However, their counsel is based on a misunderstanding of Job's situation and God's justice. This account illustrates the need for discernment in giving and receiving advice, especially in times of trial (Job 4-5, 8, 11). 3. Peter's Rebuke of Jesus: In the New Testament, Peter attempts to dissuade Jesus from speaking about His impending suffering and death. Jesus responds by rebuking Peter, saying, "Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men" (Matthew 16:23). This incident underscores the importance of aligning one's understanding with God's purposes rather than human reasoning. 4. Paul's Journey to Jerusalem: In the Book of Acts, the Apostle Paul is determined to go to Jerusalem despite warnings from fellow believers about the dangers he will face. They attempt to dissuade him, but Paul remains resolute, believing it is God's will for him to go. This account demonstrates the tension between human concern and divine calling, as well as the courage required to follow God's leading (Acts 21:10-14). 5. Warnings Against False Teachers: Throughout the New Testament, believers are warned to be wary of false teachers who seek to dissuade them from the truth of the Gospel. Paul, in his letters, frequently admonishes the early church to stand firm in their faith and not be led astray by deceptive doctrines (Galatians 1:6-9; 2 Timothy 4:3-4). This theme highlights the necessity of spiritual vigilance and adherence to sound doctrine. Moral and Spiritual Implications: The concept of dissuasion in the Bible often involves a call to wisdom and discernment. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in their decisions and to be wary of influences that may lead them away from His will. The Bible presents both positive and negative examples of dissuasion, teaching that true wisdom comes from aligning one's actions with God's purposes and commands. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To advise or exhort against; to persuade from a course of action.2. (v. t.) To divert by persuasion; to turn from a purpose by reasons or motives; -- with from; as, I could not dissuade him from his purpose. Strong's Hebrew 5106. nu -- to hinder, restrain, frustrate... A primitive root; to refuse, forbid, dissuade, or neutralize -- break, disallow, discourage, make of none effect. 5105, 5106. nu. 5107 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/5106.htm - 6k Library Directions How to Lead a Heavenly Life Upon Earth. Against Rash and Vain Swearing. The Folly of Slander. Part 1. His Journey to Rome, Venice, Jerusalem, and the Holy Land The True Doctrine is to be Sought in the Prophets. The Conquest of Lydia. The Fourth Season, The Wicked Heart Set to do Evil. Chapter twenty-six Similitudes and Examples a Most Important Part of Right ... Thesaurus Dissuade (2 Occurrences)... 2. (vt) To divert by persuasion; to turn from a purpose by reasons or motives; -- with from; as, I could not dissuade him from his purpose. ... /d/dissuade.htm - 7k Dehort Jephthah (26 Occurrences) Thomas (12 Occurrences) Expostulate (1 Occurrence) Dissolving (1 Occurrence) Dissuaded (1 Occurrence) Ahab (85 Occurrences) Warfare (18 Occurrences) Saul (371 Occurrences) Resources What is the whole counsel of God? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Uriah the Hittite? | GotQuestions.org What happened to Mary? | GotQuestions.org Dissuade: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Dissuade (2 Occurrences)Ezekiel 3:18 Ezekiel 33:8 Subtopics Related Terms |