Topical Encyclopedia The term "distorteth" is derived from the verb "distort," which means to twist or alter something out of its true, original, or natural state. In a biblical context, it often refers to the twisting or misrepresentation of truth, justice, or the Word of God. The concept of distortion is significant in Scripture as it relates to the integrity of God's message and the moral conduct expected of His followers.Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 19:28 · "A corrupt witness mocks justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down iniquity." · This verse highlights the role of a false witness who distorts justice. The act of bearing false witness is condemned throughout Scripture as it undermines the foundation of truth and righteousness. The distortion of justice is seen as a grave sin, reflecting a heart that is far from God. 2. Proverbs 17:23 · "A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice." · Here, the distortion of justice is linked to corruption and bribery. The act of accepting a bribe to alter the truth is a direct violation of God's command for honesty and fairness. This verse underscores the destructive impact of distorting justice for personal gain. 3. 2 Peter 3:16 · "He writes this way in all his letters, speaking in them about such matters. Some parts of his letters are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction." · The Apostle Peter warns against the distortion of Scripture, emphasizing that some individuals twist the teachings of Paul and other parts of the Bible. This distortion leads to spiritual peril, highlighting the importance of sound doctrine and the correct interpretation of God's Word. 4. Isaiah 5:20 · "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who turn darkness into light and light into darkness, who replace bitter with sweet and sweet with bitter." · This passage speaks to the moral distortion prevalent in society, where truth is inverted, and moral standards are corrupted. Such distortion is a direct affront to God's holiness and order, leading to societal decay and divine judgment. Theological Implications: The distortion of truth, whether in the form of false testimony, corrupt practices, or misinterpretation of Scripture, is a serious offense in the biblical narrative. It reflects a departure from God's standards and a rebellion against His divine order. The Bible consistently calls for truthfulness, integrity, and faithfulness to God's Word, warning of the consequences of distortion. In the New Testament, the distortion of the gospel message is particularly addressed, as seen in Paul's letters to the Galatians and Corinthians. The purity of the gospel is paramount, and any alteration or misrepresentation is met with strong condemnation. Believers are urged to hold fast to the truth and to guard against false teachings and deceptive practices. Practical Application: For Christians, the call to avoid distortion is a call to uphold truth in all areas of life. This includes personal integrity, honest communication, and faithful adherence to biblical teachings. In a world where truth is often compromised, believers are to be beacons of light, reflecting the unchanging truth of God's Word and His righteous standards. Concordance Distorteth (1 Occurrence)Proverbs 19:3 Thesaurus Distorteth (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Distorteth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 19:3 The folly of man distorteth his way, and his heart is irritated against Jehovah. (DBY). ... /d/distorteth.htm - 6k Irritated (2 Occurrences) Distorted (4 Occurrences) Distortion (1 Occurrence) Folly (68 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |