The term "forbearest" is an archaic form of the verb "forbear," which means to refrain or abstain from something, to hold back, or to exercise self-control and patience. In the context of the Bible, forbearance is often associated with God's patience and mercy towards humanity, as well as the expected conduct of believers towards one another.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Divine Forbearance: The concept of forbearance is frequently attributed to God, who, in His mercy, withholds immediate judgment and punishment, giving people the opportunity to repent. This divine patience is a testament to God's character, emphasizing His longsuffering nature. In Romans 2:4 , the Apostle Paul writes, "Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance?" Here, forbearance is linked with God's kindness and is intended to lead individuals to repentance.

2. Human Forbearance: Believers are called to emulate God's forbearance in their interactions with others. This involves exercising patience, self-control, and forgiveness, even in the face of provocation or wrongdoing. In Ephesians 4:2 , Paul exhorts the church to live "with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love." This call to forbearance is a reflection of the unity and peace that should characterize the body of Christ.

3. Forbearance in Relationships: Forbearance is crucial in maintaining harmonious relationships within the Christian community. It involves a conscious decision to overlook minor offenses and to extend grace to others, recognizing that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Colossians 3:13 instructs believers to "bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

4. Forbearance and Self-Control: The fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23 , includes self-control, which is closely related to forbearance. This self-control enables believers to resist the urge to retaliate or act impulsively, instead choosing to respond with love and patience.

Theological Implications

Forbearance is a reflection of God's character and an essential aspect of Christian living. It underscores the importance of patience and mercy, both divine and human, in the process of sanctification and in the witness of the church to the world. By practicing forbearance, believers demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel and the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Colossians iii. 7-May
... Thou forbearest him, and he thee; and so he says in the Epistle to the Galatians,
"Bear ye one another's burdens." (Galatians 6:2.) "And be ye thankful," he ...
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Forbearest (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Forbearest (2 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 23:22 And
when thou forbearest to vow, it is not in thee a sin. (YLT). ...
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Forbearer (1 Occurrence)

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Forbeareth (2 Occurrences)

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