Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Keeping order refers to the practice of maintaining structure, discipline, and harmony within various spheres of life, including personal conduct, family, church, and society. In the biblical context, order is seen as a reflection of God's character and His creation, where everything has a purpose and place. The Bible emphasizes the importance of order as a means to reflect God's nature and to ensure peace and productivity. Biblical Foundation The concept of order is rooted in the very act of creation. Genesis 1:1-2 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep." God brought order out of chaos, establishing a pattern for His creation. This divine order is evident throughout the creation narrative, where God systematically creates light, sky, land, vegetation, celestial bodies, animals, and finally, humanity. Order in Personal Conduct Scripture calls individuals to live orderly lives, reflecting God's holiness and righteousness. In 1 Corinthians 14:40 , Paul instructs, "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner." This directive applies to personal behavior, encouraging believers to live disciplined lives that honor God. Proverbs 25:28 warns, "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control," highlighting the chaos that ensues from a lack of personal order. Order in the Family The family unit is a primary context for keeping order. Ephesians 5:22-6:4 outlines the roles and responsibilities within the family, emphasizing mutual submission, love, and respect. Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loves the church, wives are encouraged to respect their husbands, and children are instructed to obey their parents. This structure is designed to foster harmony and reflect the order of God's kingdom. Order in the Church The New Testament provides guidance for maintaining order within the church. In 1 Corinthians 14:33 , Paul states, "For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace." Church gatherings are to be conducted in an orderly fashion, with spiritual gifts exercised in a way that edifies the body of Christ. Elders and deacons are appointed to oversee and maintain order within the church, as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-13 and Titus 1:5-9 . Order in Society Order in society is upheld through the establishment of laws and governance. Romans 13:1-2 instructs, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God." This passage underscores the divine origin of governmental authority and the believer's responsibility to respect and uphold societal order. Spiritual Order Spiritual order involves recognizing the supremacy of God and aligning one's life with His will. Matthew 6:33 encourages believers to "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness," prioritizing spiritual order over worldly concerns. This alignment ensures that all aspects of life are lived under God's authority and guidance. Conclusion The biblical mandate for keeping order is a reflection of God's character and His desire for harmony in creation. Whether in personal conduct, family, church, or society, maintaining order is essential for reflecting God's nature and ensuring peace and productivity. Topical Bible Verses 1 Corinthians 14:33For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Topicalbible.org 1 Timothy 2:1-15 Romans 13:1-14 1 Timothy 3:2 Colossians 3:1-25 Acts 5:29 Philippians 2:3 Ephesians 5:22-24 1 Peter 3:1 Titus 2:5 Library Keeping the Wesley Children in Order Examples from the Old Testament, Balaam, Moses, and Hezekiah, to ... We Come Next in the Order of Belief to the Holy Church. We have ... Of the Order and the Method in which all the Four Evangelists Come ... Of the Mutual Consistency of the Accounts which are Given by ... To Master Raimondo of Capua of the Order of the Preachers To Brother Matteo Di Francesco Tolomei of the Order of the ... The Charge of the Pilgrim Priests Martyrdom of the Holy Confessors Shamuna, Guria, and Habib, from ... Thought, Deed, Word Resources What does the Bible say about keeping your vows / oaths? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I keep the faith? | GotQuestions.org Who was Ellen G. White? | GotQuestions.org Keeping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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