Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: In a biblical context, the term "excel" refers to surpassing others in quality, virtue, or achievement. It is often associated with excellence in character, wisdom, and spiritual gifts. The concept of excelling is encouraged throughout Scripture as believers are called to pursue excellence in their walk with God and in their interactions with others. Biblical References: 1. Moral and Spiritual Excellence: · Philippians 1:9-10 : "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ." This passage highlights the importance of excelling in love, knowledge, and discernment, aiming for purity and blamelessness. 2. Excellence in Gifts and Service: · 1 Corinthians 12:31 : "But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you a way that is beyond comparison." Here, Paul encourages believers to excel in spiritual gifts, emphasizing the pursuit of love as the most excellent way. 3. Excellence in Conduct: · 1 Thessalonians 4:1 : "Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us. This is how you already live, so you should do so all the more." This verse urges believers to excel in their conduct, living in a manner that pleases God. 4. Excellence in Generosity: · 2 Corinthians 8:7 : "But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness, and in the love we inspired in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving." Paul commends the Corinthians for excelling in various virtues and encourages them to also excel in generosity. Theological Implications: The call to excel is rooted in the understanding that believers are to reflect the character of God, who is perfect in all His ways. Excelling in various aspects of life is seen as a response to God's grace and a demonstration of His work within us. It involves a commitment to growth, maturity, and the pursuit of holiness. Practical Application: Christians are encouraged to strive for excellence in their personal lives, relationships, and communities. This involves a dedication to continuous improvement, seeking God's guidance, and relying on the Holy Spirit to cultivate virtues that honor God. Excelling is not about competition with others but about fulfilling one's God-given potential and purpose. Historical and Cultural Insights: In the ancient world, excellence was often associated with virtue and honor. The biblical call to excel transcends cultural norms, focusing on spiritual and moral excellence rather than worldly success. This perspective challenges believers to prioritize eternal values over temporal achievements. Conclusion: The biblical concept of excelling is a holistic pursuit that encompasses spiritual growth, moral integrity, and active service. It is a call to live out one's faith with diligence and dedication, reflecting the excellence of Christ in every aspect of life. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To show superiority; to go beyond or surpass in good qualities or laudable deeds; to outdo or outgo, in a good sense.2. (v. t.) To exceed or go beyond; to surpass. 3. (v. i.) To surpass others in good qualities, laudable actions, or acquirements; to be distinguished by superiority; as, to excel in mathematics, or classics. Greek 5235. huperballo -- to throw over or beyond, to run beyond ... of Speech: Verb Transliteration: huperballo Phonetic Spelling: (hoop-er-bal'-lo) Short Definition: I surpass Definition: I surpass, excel, exceed, transcend. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5235.htm - 7k 5242. huperecho -- to hold above, to rise above, to be superior 4052. perisseuo -- to be over and above, to abound 4284. proecho -- to hold before 1308. diaphero -- to carry through, carry about, to differ, make a ... Strong's Hebrew 3498. yathar -- to remain over... excel, leave a remnant, left behind, too much, make plenteous, preserve. A primitive root; to jut over or exceed; by implication, to ... /hebrew/3498.htm - 6k 5927. alah -- to go up, ascend, climb 1368. gibbor -- strong, mighty 5329. natsach -- preeminent or enduring 5674a. abar -- to pass over, through, or by, pass on 7235. rabah -- to be or become much, many or great Library How Greatly those Excel who Depart from Sin through the Feeling of ... But we have Reason, one Will Say, and Excel the Whole Race of Dumb ... Those who Teach Others, Ought to Excel in virtues. How vicious Souls, However Worthy of Condemnation they May Be ... Whether Observance is a Special virtue, Distinct from Other ... Whether Pride is the Beginning of Every Sin? The Missionary in India. Beside the Manger. On Genesis. Which are the Better, the Continent, or those who Delight in ... Thesaurus Excel (12 Occurrences)... 3. (vi) To surpass others in good qualities, laudable actions, or acquirements; to be distinguished by superiority; as, to excel in mathematics, or classics. ... /e/excel.htm - 10k Top (880 Occurrences) Emulation (5 Occurrences) Unstable (8 Occurrences) Outdo (1 Occurrence) Overpass (1 Occurrence) Go (17871 Occurrences) Wentest (16 Occurrences) Forasmuch (64 Occurrences) Transcends (2 Occurrences) Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Reuben? | GotQuestions.orgShould we give gifts at Christmas? | GotQuestions.org How can we rely on the power of God? | GotQuestions.org Excel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Excel (12 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 12:31 1 Corinthians 14:12 2 Corinthians 8:7 1 Thessalonians 4:1 1 Thessalonians 4:10 Genesis 49:4 1 Chronicles 15:21 Psalms 103:20 Proverbs 31:29 Isaiah 10:10 Jeremiah 5:28 Jeremiah 22:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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