Topical Encyclopedia The term "innocently" in the context of the Bible often refers to actions or states of being that are free from guilt, sin, or moral wrong. It is closely associated with purity, righteousness, and a clear conscience before God and man. The concept of innocence is foundational in understanding the nature of humanity, sin, and redemption as presented in the Scriptures.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, innocence is frequently linked with the idea of being blameless or upright. For instance, in Genesis 20:5, Abimelech defends his actions by claiming he acted "with a clear conscience and clean hands," which the Berean Standard Bible translates as "innocently." This narrative underscores the importance of intention and the heart's condition in determining innocence. The Psalms often reflect on innocence in the context of divine justice. Psalm 26:6-7 states, "I wash my hands in innocence that I may go about Your altar, O LORD, to proclaim with thanksgiving and declare all Your wonderful works." Here, innocence is associated with ritual purity and the ability to worship God rightly. New Testament Context In the New Testament, innocence is exemplified in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus calls His followers to a standard of purity and innocence that surpasses mere external adherence to the law. In Matthew 10:16 , Jesus instructs His disciples, "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." This highlights the balance between wisdom and innocence in the Christian life. The Apostle Paul also speaks to the concept of innocence in his letters. In Philippians 2:15 , he encourages believers to be "blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world." Here, innocence is portrayed as a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. Theological Implications Innocence in the biblical sense is not merely the absence of wrongdoing but is deeply connected to one's relationship with God. It involves a heart aligned with God's will and a life that reflects His holiness. The fall of humanity in Genesis 3 marks the loss of original innocence, introducing sin and guilt into the human experience. However, through Christ's redemptive work, believers are restored to a state of innocence before God, justified by faith and cleansed from sin. The sacrificial system in the Old Testament foreshadows this restoration, where innocent animals were offered to atone for the sins of the people. This points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29), whose innocence and righteousness are imputed to believers. Practical Application Living innocently as a Christian involves a commitment to holiness and integrity. It requires vigilance against sin and a reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. Believers are called to maintain a clear conscience before God and others, striving to live in a manner that reflects the purity and righteousness of Christ. This pursuit of innocence is not only a personal endeavor but also a witness to the world of God's transformative grace. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (adv.) In an innocent manner.Greek 3515. nepiazo -- to be an infant ... be a child. From nepios; to act as a babe, ie (figuratively) innocently -- be a child. see GREEK nepios. (nepiazete) -- 1 Occurrence. 3514, 3515. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3515.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 8537. tom -- completeness, integrity, also part of the high ...... completeness, integrity, also part of the high priest's breastplate NASB Word Usage blameless (1), full (1), full measure (1), innocently (1), integrity (16 ... /hebrew/8537.htm - 6k Library Whoever Suffereth Innocently and Justly in Another's Stead Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount Second Sunday after Easter The Creed Of Evil-Speaking in General. Sins May be Divided into Corporeal and Spiritual Both Equally ... Of Religion. Of the Soul and Body, and of Providence. Here Peradventure Some Man May Say, "If it was Bodily Work that ... A Child of God Longing to See Him Beloved Thesaurus Innocently (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (adv.) In an innocent manner. Multi-Version Concordance Innocently (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 15:11 Two hundred ... /i/innocently.htm - 6k Innocents (2 Occurrences) Innocent (97 Occurrences) Paul (207 Occurrences) Hosea (6 Occurrences) Apostle (25 Occurrences) Resources How should a Christian respond to evidence of paranormal activity? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God strike Uzzah dead for touching the Ark of the Covenant? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus say to Peter, “Get behind me Satan”? | GotQuestions.org Innocently: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Innocently (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 15:11 Subtopics Related Terms |
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