The term "forborn" is an archaic English word that is not directly found in most modern translations of the Bible, including the Berean Standard Bible . However, it is derived from the verb "forbear," which means to refrain or abstain from something. In biblical contexts, forbearance is often associated with patience, self-control, and the act of refraining from enforcing one's rights or desires.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Forbearance as a Divine Attribute: In Scripture, forbearance is frequently attributed to God, highlighting His patience and mercy towards humanity. God's forbearance is evident in His willingness to delay judgment and offer opportunities for repentance. Romans 2:4 states, "Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance?" This verse underscores the idea that God's forbearance is an expression of His kindness and a means to draw people to repentance.

2. Human Forbearance: Believers are called to emulate God's forbearance in their interactions with others. This involves exercising patience and restraint, particularly in the face of provocation or wrongdoing. Ephesians 4:2 encourages believers to live "with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love." Here, forbearance is linked with love and humility, essential virtues in Christian conduct.

3. Forbearance in Relationships: The concept of forbearance is crucial in maintaining harmonious relationships within the Christian community. Colossians 3:13 advises, "Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." This passage highlights the importance of forbearance in fostering forgiveness and unity among believers.

4. Forbearance and Self-Control: Forbearance is closely related to the fruit of the Spirit, particularly self-control. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, including "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Forbearance, as an aspect of patience and self-control, is a manifestation of the Spirit's work in a believer's life.

5. Forbearance in the Face of Persecution: The early Christians often faced persecution and hardship, requiring them to exercise forbearance. James 5:10-11 provides encouragement by pointing to the prophets and Job as examples of patience and endurance: "Brothers, as an example of patience in affliction, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. See how blessed we consider those who have persevered."

Theological Implications

Forbearance is a reflection of God's character and an essential aspect of Christian maturity. It requires a deep trust in God's sovereignty and timing, recognizing that vengeance and justice belong to Him (Romans 12:19). By practicing forbearance, believers demonstrate their reliance on God's ultimate justice and their commitment to living out the gospel's call to love and forgiveness.

In summary, while the specific term "forborn" may not appear in modern translations, the concept of forbearance is deeply embedded in biblical teaching. It is a vital component of the Christian life, calling believers to reflect God's patience and mercy in their relationships with others.

Of the Power and Authoritie Given to Synods.
... 1 Cor.8.11.12. and therefore necessary to be forborn, necessitate pr??cepti,
by the necessity of Gods Commandment. 2. A second reason ...
/.../the keyes of the kingdom of heaven and power thereof/chap vi of the power.htm

The Heinous Sin of Drunkenness
... And what assurance hast thou, that thou shalt not be the next? Because God has
forborn thee so long, thinkest thou he will forbear always? ...
/.../selected sermons of george whitefield/the heinous sin of drunkenness.htm

Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and ...
... 3. Nay God by speaking to him of the very tree that was to be forborn, telling him
also where it stood, that he might the better know it; did in effect ...
/.../the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/reprobation asserted or the doctrine.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

Forborn (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Forborn (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 51:30 The mighty
men of Babylon have forborne to fight, they remain in ...
/f/forborn.htm - 6k

Forbore (1 Occurrence)

/f/forbore.htm - 7k

Forborne (1 Occurrence)

/f/forborne.htm - 7k

Dwellingplaces (5 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 51:30 The mighty men of Babylon have forborn to fight, they have remained
in their holds: their might hath failed; they became as women: they have ...
/d/dwellingplaces.htm - 8k

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