Topical Encyclopedia The term "exceeds" in a biblical context often relates to surpassing or going beyond a certain standard, measure, or expectation. This concept is frequently encountered in Scripture, where God's attributes, actions, and the expectations for His followers are described as exceeding human understanding or capability.Divine Attributes and Actions God's nature and actions are often described as exceeding human comprehension. In Isaiah 55:8-9 , the Lord declares, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways... As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." This passage highlights the transcendence of God's wisdom and plans, which exceed human understanding. Similarly, Ephesians 3:20 speaks of God's ability to exceed our expectations: "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." This verse emphasizes God's omnipotence and His capacity to surpass human requests and imagination. Moral and Ethical Standards The concept of exceeding is also applied to the moral and ethical standards expected of believers. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls His followers to a righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees. Matthew 5:20 states, "For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Here, Jesus emphasizes the need for a deeper, heart-based righteousness that goes beyond mere legalistic adherence to the law. Love and Forgiveness The call to exceed is also evident in the teachings on love and forgiveness. In Matthew 5:44 , Jesus instructs, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This command exceeds the common human inclination to love only those who love us back, urging believers to demonstrate a love that reflects God's own unconditional love. Generosity and Giving The principle of exceeding is further illustrated in the context of generosity. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 , Paul writes, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." The call to exceed in generosity is a reflection of God's abundant provision and grace. Faith and Trust Exceeding faith is another theme found in Scripture. In Matthew 8:10 , Jesus commends the centurion's faith, saying, "Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith." The centurion's faith exceeded that of many others, demonstrating a profound trust in Jesus' authority and power. Conclusion The biblical concept of "exceeds" challenges believers to recognize the surpassing greatness of God's nature and to strive for a life that reflects His higher standards. Whether in understanding, righteousness, love, generosity, or faith, the call to exceed is a call to align more closely with the divine example set forth in Scripture. Greek 4051. perisseuma -- superfluity ... all-around/excess") -- abundance, especially as a situation (ie by its ); what is greater than expected (thought to be the limit); what exceeds (what was ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4051.htm - 7k 5248. huperperisseuo -- to abound more exceedingly 5250. huperpleonazo -- to abound exceedingly 4050. perisseia -- superfluity Library Whether There is a vice Opposed to Meanness? Whether Prodigality is Opposite to Covetousness? Wesley visits the Irish Parliament House Whether the Mean is to be Observed in the Same Way in Distributive ... Whether Prodigality is a More Grievous Sin than Covetousness? Whether the Species of Gluttony are Fittingly Distinguished? Twentieth Proposition of Arminius Whether the Son of God Knew all Things in the Word? Dionysius the Presbyter, to his Fellow-Presbyter Timothy. Concerning "Power," "Righteousness," "Salvation," "Redemption" ... Thesaurus Exceeds (2 Occurrences)...Exceeds (2 Occurrences). ... (WEB RSV). 2 Corinthians 3:9 For if the service of condemnation has glory, the service of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. ... /e/exceeds.htm - 6k Exceed (14 Occurrences) Excel (12 Occurrences) Under (4325 Occurrences) Unless (102 Occurrences) Importunity (1 Occurrence) Teachers (87 Occurrences) Excess (20 Occurrences) Enter (372 Occurrences) Dispensation (8 Occurrences) Resources When is the right time for marriage? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we rely on the power of God? | GotQuestions.org How are Catholics able to perform exorcisms if many of their beliefs are unbiblical? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Exceeds (2 Occurrences)Matthew 5:20 2 Corinthians 3:9 Subtopics Related Terms |
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