Jump to: ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Fining, in the context of biblical literature, refers to the process of refining or purifying metals, particularly silver and gold. This process is often used metaphorically in the Bible to describe the purification of individuals or communities by God. The imagery of a refiner's fire is a powerful symbol of divine judgment and sanctification.Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 17:3 : "A crucible for silver and a furnace for gold, but the LORD is the tester of hearts." This verse highlights the comparison between the physical process of refining metals and God's spiritual testing of human hearts. Just as a refiner uses heat to purify precious metals, God uses trials and challenges to purify and test the faith and character of His people. 2. Malachi 3:2-3 : "But who can endure the day of His coming? Who can stand when He appears? For He will be like a refiner’s fire, like a launderer’s soap. And He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will present offerings to the LORD in righteousness." This passage speaks of the coming of the Lord and His role as a refiner. The imagery of a refiner's fire is used to describe the purifying work that God will perform on His people, particularly the priests, to prepare them for righteous service. 3. Zechariah 13:9 : "I will bring this third through the fire; I will refine them as silver is refined and test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘They are My people,’ and they will say, ‘The LORD is our God.’" Here, the refining process is used to describe the purification and testing of a remnant of God's people. The result of this refining is a deeper relationship with God, characterized by mutual recognition and commitment. Theological Significance: The concept of fining in the Bible underscores the importance of spiritual purification and growth. It suggests that just as metals are refined to remove impurities, believers undergo spiritual refinement to become more like Christ. This process often involves trials and tribulations, which serve to strengthen faith and character. The refiner's fire is a symbol of God's holiness and His desire for His people to be holy. It is a reminder that God's ultimate goal is to purify His people, making them fit for His presence and service. The process of fining, therefore, is not merely punitive but is intended for the believer's ultimate good and God's glory. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to view their trials as opportunities for growth and purification. The refining process, though often painful, is a necessary part of the Christian journey. It is through these experiences that believers are shaped and molded into vessels of honor, ready for the Master's use. In summary, the biblical concept of fining serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual refinement that God performs in the lives of His people. It is a process that leads to greater purity, deeper faith, and a closer relationship with God. Easton's Bible Dictionary Fining pot A crucible, melting-pot (Proverbs 17:3; 27:21). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Fine.2. (n.) The act of imposing a fin/. 3. (n.) The process of fining or refining; clarification; also (Metal.), the conversion of cast iron into suitable for puddling, in a hearth or charcoal fire. 4. (n.) That which is used to refine; especially, a preparation of isinglass, gelatin, etc., for clarifying beer. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia FINER; FININGfin'-er, fin'-ing (Proverbs 25:4 the King James Version). Strong's Hebrew 4715. matsreph -- a crucible... Word Origin from tsaraph Definition a crucible NASB Word Usage crucible (1), refining pot (1). fining pot. From tsaraph; a crucible -- fining pot. ... /hebrew/4715.htm - 6k Library The Fourteenth Proposition. Concerning the Power of the Civil ... Concerning the Power of the Civil Magistrate in Matters Purely ... Wisdom Brevities Reference Table Bishop of Cyrus. Whether God Should be Praised with the Lips? The True Gold and Its Testing God's People in the Furnace A Caution to the Presumptuous Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men Thesaurus Fining (2 Occurrences)... Easton's Bible Dictionary Fining pot. A crucible, melting-pot (Proverbs 17:3; 27:21). ... FINER; FINING. fin'-er, fin'-ing (Proverbs 25:4 the King James Version). ... /f/fining.htm - 7k Fining-pot (2 Occurrences) Finish (35 Occurrences) Finger-work (1 Occurrence) Finer (1 Occurrence) Trieth (7 Occurrences) Praiseth (4 Occurrences) Pot (46 Occurrences) Resources What is a sin tax? | GotQuestions.orgFining: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fining (2 Occurrences)Proverbs 17:3 Proverbs 27:21 Subtopics Related Terms |
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