Topical Encyclopedia The term "infidel" is traditionally used to describe a person who does not believe in the God of the Bible or who rejects the Christian faith. While the specific term "infidel" is not found in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept is addressed through various passages that discuss unbelief and the rejection of God.Biblical Context In the Bible, the concept of an infidel is closely related to unbelief and idolatry. Throughout Scripture, there is a clear distinction between those who follow God and those who do not. The Old Testament often refers to the nations surrounding Israel as pagan or idolatrous, highlighting their worship of false gods and rejection of the one true God. For example, in Deuteronomy 32:21, God speaks of provoking Israel to jealousy with a "nation void of understanding," indicating those who do not know or follow Him. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of unbelief in several of his epistles. In 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 , Paul writes, "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?" Here, the term "unbeliever" can be understood as synonymous with "infidel," emphasizing the spiritual divide between those who follow Christ and those who do not. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the concept of an infidel underscores the importance of faith in the Christian life. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Faith is the foundation of a relationship with God, and without it, one is considered outside the covenant community. The Bible also warns of the consequences of unbelief. In John 3:18 , Jesus declares, "Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son." This passage highlights the eternal significance of faith in Christ and the peril of rejecting Him. Practical Considerations For Christians, the presence of infidels in the world presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Believers are called to live in a way that reflects the light of Christ, serving as witnesses to those who do not yet know Him. In Matthew 5:16 , Jesus instructs, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Furthermore, Christians are encouraged to engage with unbelievers with love and respect, sharing the gospel message with gentleness and reverence. 1 Peter 3:15 advises, "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect." Conclusion While the term "infidel" may carry a negative connotation, it serves as a reminder of the spiritual divide between belief and unbelief. The Bible calls Christians to be mindful of this divide, to live out their faith authentically, and to reach out to those who do not yet know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) One who denies the existence of God; one who does not believe in the prevailing religious faith; especially, one who does not believe in the divine origin and authority of Christianity; a Mohammedan; a heathen; a freethinker.2. (a.) Not holding the faith; -- applied esp. to one who does not believe in the inspiration of the Scriptures, and the supernatural origin of Christianity. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia INFIDELin'-fi-del (apistos, "unbelieving," "incredulous"): the King James Version has this word twice: "What part hath he that believeth with an infidel?" (2 Corinthians 6:15); "If any provide not for his own,. is worse than an infidel" (1 Timothy 5:8). In both passages the English Revised Version and the American Standard Revised Version have "unbeliever" in harmony with numerous other instances of the use of the Greek apistos. The word nowhere corresponds to the modern conception of an infidel, one who denies the existence of God, or repudiates the Christian faith; but always signifies one who has not become a believer in Christ. It was formerly so used in English, and some of the older versions have it in other passages, besides these two. It is not found in the Old Testament, but "infidelity" (incredulity) occurs in 2 Esdras 7:44 (114). Greek 571. apistos -- incredible, unbelieving ... specially, a heathen); (passively) untrustworthy (person), or incredible (thing) -- that believeth not, faithless, incredible thing, infidel, unbeliever(-ing). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/571.htm - 8k Library The Converted Infidel Moody and the Infidel. Infidel Books. Sambo and the Infidel Judge. A Little Child Converts an Infidel. An Infidel who Would not Talk Infidelity Before his Daughter. This Therefore is the one True Essential Distinction Between the ... These Things, Since they are Asserted Upon the Warrant of the ... 1 Timothy v. 8 Moody's Anecdotes And Illustrations Thesaurus Infidel (2 Occurrences)... to one who does not believe in the inspiration of the Scriptures, and the supernatural origin of Christianity. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. INFIDEL. ... /i/infidel.htm - 8k Unfaithful (58 Occurrences) Unbeliever (7 Occurrences) Inferring (1 Occurrence) Infiltrated (1 Occurrence) Baldness (11 Occurrences) Concord (1 Occurrence) Believeth (42 Occurrences) Ethiopia (26 Occurrences) Resources What is an infidel? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christians be concerned about the idea of Sharia Law? | GotQuestions.org Questions about Apologetics (All) | GotQuestions.org Infidel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Infidel (2 Occurrences)2 Corinthians 6:15 1 Timothy 5:8 Subtopics Infidelity: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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