Topical Encyclopedia The concept of being influenced is a significant theme throughout the Bible, as it pertains to the impact of external forces on an individual's beliefs, actions, and spiritual life. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on how individuals can be influenced by both positive and negative forces, emphasizing the importance of discernment and steadfastness in faith.Influence of God and the Holy Spirit The most profound influence in the life of a believer is that of God and the Holy Spirit. The Bible teaches that God actively works in the lives of His people, guiding and shaping them according to His will. In Philippians 2:13, it is written, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose." This verse highlights the divine influence that empowers believers to live in accordance with God's purposes. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in influencing believers by providing wisdom, understanding, and strength. In John 14:26, Jesus promises, "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you." The Holy Spirit's influence is essential for spiritual growth and the ability to discern truth from falsehood. Influence of Scripture Scripture itself is a powerful influence on the believer's life. The Word of God is described as living and active, capable of transforming hearts and minds. Hebrews 4:12 states, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Through regular engagement with Scripture, believers are influenced to align their lives with God's truth and righteousness. Influence of Jesus Christ Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, is the ultimate example and influence for Christians. His life, teachings, and sacrificial death serve as the foundation for Christian living. In 1 Peter 2:21, it is written, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps." The influence of Christ compels believers to emulate His love, humility, and obedience to the Father. Influence of the World The Bible also warns of the negative influences of the world, which can lead believers away from God. In 1 John 2:15-16, it is cautioned, "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not from the Father but from the world." Believers are called to be vigilant against worldly influences that can corrupt their faith and lead to sin. Influence of Others The influence of other people, both positive and negative, is a recurring theme in the Bible. Proverbs 13:20 advises, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." This highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with godly influences that encourage spiritual growth and wisdom. Conversely, negative influences from ungodly associations can lead to moral compromise and spiritual decline. Influence of Satan Satan is depicted as a malevolent force seeking to influence and deceive believers. In 1 Peter 5:8, believers are warned, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." The influence of Satan is characterized by lies, temptation, and spiritual warfare, necessitating vigilance and reliance on God's strength to resist. Influence of Faith and Prayer Faith and prayer are vital influences that sustain and strengthen believers. Through faith, individuals are influenced to trust in God's promises and remain steadfast in trials. In James 5:16, the power of prayer is emphasized: "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." Prayer influences the believer by fostering a deeper relationship with God and aligning their will with His. In summary, the Bible presents a comprehensive view of influence, urging believers to seek the guidance of God, the Holy Spirit, and Scripture while remaining cautious of worldly and ungodly influences. Through faith, prayer, and the example of Jesus Christ, believers are equipped to navigate the various influences they encounter in their spiritual journey. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Influence.Greek 4583. seleniazomai -- to be moonstruck, spec. be epileptic ... ... be epileptic (supposedly influenced by the moon). Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: seleniazomai Phonetic Spelling: (sel-ay-nee-ad'-zom-ahee) Short ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4583.htm - 7k 1141. daimoniodes -- demon-like 1573. ekkakeo -- faint, be weary. 866. aphilarguros -- without love of money 551. apeirastos -- untried, untempted Library Preface to Original Edition by Charles Kingsley Seeketh not Her Own. 1 Corinthians 13:5. April 20: Miracles no Remedy for Unbelief. The Story of the Baptist, from his Last Testimony to Jesus to his ... Letter vi. Associates and Friends. Benjamin Whichcote, the First of the "Latitude-Men" Gallio Evil of Two Kinds, Penal and Criminal it is not of the Latter Sort ... Rebuilding the Temple Thesaurus Influenced (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Influence. Multi-Version Concordance Influenced (2 Occurrences). Acts 13:50 But the Jews ... /i/influenced.htm - 7k Babylonia (17 Occurrences) Influence (13 Occurrences) Influences (3 Occurrences) Ethiopic Reconciliation (11 Occurrences) Images (158 Occurrences) Reconcile (10 Occurrences) Antichrist (4 Occurrences) Baruch (24 Occurrences) Resources How has Greek philosophy influenced Christianity? | GotQuestions.orgHow does bad company corrupt good character (1 Corinthians 15:33)? | GotQuestions.org What is Pietism? | GotQuestions.org Influenced: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Influenced (2 Occurrences)Acts 13:50 1 Corinthians 12:2 Subtopics Related Terms Reconciliation (11 Occurrences) Righteousness (442 Occurrences) |