Topical Encyclopedia The term "emulous" is not directly found in the Bible; however, it is derived from the concept of emulation, which is addressed in the Scriptures. Emulation, in a biblical context, often refers to a form of rivalry or jealousy, where one desires to surpass or imitate another, sometimes with a negative connotation. The Apostle Paul addresses this concept in his epistles, warning against the destructive nature of such attitudes.Biblical References: 1. Galatians 5:19-21 : In his letter to the Galatians, Paul lists "emulations" among the works of the flesh. The passage reads: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." Here, emulation is associated with rivalry and jealousy, which are contrary to the fruits of the Spirit. 2. Romans 13:13 : Paul exhorts believers to live honorably, avoiding behaviors such as jealousy and rivalry. He writes: "Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy." The call is to live in a manner that reflects the light of Christ, free from the destructive nature of emulous behavior. 3. 1 Corinthians 3:3 : Paul addresses the Corinthian church, highlighting their spiritual immaturity due to jealousy and strife. He states: "For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?" Emulation, in this context, is seen as a sign of carnality and a hindrance to spiritual growth. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, emulous behavior is seen as a manifestation of the sinful nature that believers are called to overcome through the power of the Holy Spirit. It is contrasted with the virtues of humility, contentment, and love, which are central to Christian living. Emulation, when driven by selfish ambition or jealousy, disrupts the unity and peace within the body of Christ, which is why it is admonished in the New Testament. Practical Application: Christians are encouraged to examine their hearts and motives, seeking to emulate Christ rather than competing with one another. The call is to foster a spirit of encouragement and mutual edification, as seen in Philippians 2:3-4 : "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." By focusing on serving others and glorifying God, believers can overcome the temptation of emulous behavior and cultivate a community marked by love and unity. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Ambitiously desirous to equal or even to excel another; eager to emulate or vie with another; desirous of like excellence with another; -- with of; as, emulous of another's example or virtues.2. (a.) Vying with; rivaling; hence, contentious, envious. Greek 5389. philotimeomai -- to love or seek after honor ... Middle voice from a compound of philos and time; to be fond of honor, ie Emulous (eager or earnest to do something) -- labour, strive, study. see GREEK philos. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5389.htm - 7k Library An Instance of Chastity which Teaches us that all Men Should not ... Prepositional Phrases The Conferences of John Cassian Book iv. --Of Marcion's Antitheses. The Principle of Fasting Traced Back to Its Earliest Source. Certain Other Divine Precepts the Apostolic Description of Charity ... Professions of Some Kinds Allied to Idolatry. Of Astrology in ... Scripture Alone Offers Clear Knowledge on the Questions we have ... 2 Cor. Ix. 1 Reasons for Writing the Life of St. Martin. Thesaurus Emulous (2 Occurrences)... to equal or even to excel another; eager to emulate or vie with another; desirous of like excellence with another; -- with of; as, emulous of another's example ... /e/emulous.htm - 7k En (19 Occurrences) Vie (2 Occurrences) Insolent (16 Occurrences) Rash (18 Occurrences) Emulations (1 Occurrence) Manifestations (3 Occurrences) Match (4 Occurrences) Competition (6 Occurrences) Patience (59 Occurrences) Resources Emulous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Emulous (2 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Corinthians 14:1 Subtopics Related Terms Ker'en-hap'puch (1 Occurrence) |
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