Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context In biblical literature, "knocking" is often used metaphorically to describe the act of seeking, requesting, or desiring entry or attention. It is a term that appears in both the Old and New Testaments, symbolizing a range of spiritual and practical actions, from prayer to divine invitation. Old Testament References While the specific act of knocking is not frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, the concept of seeking entry or attention is prevalent. For example, in the Song of Solomon, the beloved knocks at the door, seeking entry and intimacy (Song of Solomon 5:2). This imagery is often interpreted as a representation of God's desire for a relationship with His people. New Testament References The New Testament provides more explicit references to knocking, particularly in the teachings of Jesus. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus uses the metaphor of knocking to illustrate the persistence required in prayer and the assurance of God's response: "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7). This passage emphasizes the importance of perseverance in faith and the promise of divine receptivity. In the Gospel of Luke, a similar teaching is presented, reinforcing the idea that God is attentive to those who earnestly seek Him: "For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened" (Luke 11:10). This repetition across the synoptic gospels underscores the significance of the metaphor in Jesus' teachings. Revelation and Eschatological Significance The Book of Revelation contains one of the most poignant uses of the knocking metaphor. In Revelation 3:20, Jesus declares, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me" . This verse is often interpreted as an invitation to individuals and churches to welcome Christ into their lives, highlighting the personal and communal aspects of faith. Theological Implications The act of knocking in the Bible carries deep theological implications. It represents human initiative in seeking God, as well as God's initiative in seeking a relationship with humanity. The metaphor suggests a dynamic interaction between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. It also conveys the assurance of God's readiness to respond to those who earnestly seek Him, reflecting His grace and willingness to engage with His creation. Practical Applications For believers, the concept of knocking serves as a reminder of the importance of persistence in prayer and the assurance of God's attentiveness. It encourages Christians to actively seek God's presence and guidance in their lives, trusting in His promise to respond. The metaphor also challenges individuals to be receptive to Christ's invitation, opening their hearts and lives to His transformative presence. Conclusion The biblical metaphor of knocking is rich with meaning, illustrating the reciprocal relationship between God and humanity. It calls believers to a life of active faith, characterized by persistent seeking and openness to divine encounter. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Knock.2. (n.) A beating; a rap; a series of raps. Greek 2925. krouo -- to strike ... admittance. Word Origin a prim. verb Definition to strike NASB Word Usage knock (4), knocked (1), knocking (1), knocks (3). knock. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2925.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 5368. neqash -- to knock... 5367, 5368. neqash. 5369 . to knock. Transliteration: neqash Phonetic Spelling: (nek-ash') Short Definition: knocking. Word Origin ... /hebrew/5368.htm - 6k 6375. piq -- tottering, staggering 1849. daphaq -- to beat, knock Library Our Knocking Somebody's Knocking at the Door. The Knocking that Obtains an Opening How they Leave Off Every Kind of Work at the Sound of Some one ... "Inasmuch. " The Coming Great Leaders. After we have Believed, Search Should Cease; Otherwise it must End ... Behold, I Stand at the Door and Knock Returning Our Call. Fifth Lesson. Ask, and it Shall be Given You; Thesaurus Knocking (9 Occurrences)...Knocking (9 Occurrences). Matthew 7:8 for every one who is asking doth receive, and he who is seeking doth find, and to him who is knocking it shall be opened. ... /k/knocking.htm - 9k Knock (7 Occurrences) Seeking (182 Occurrences) Asking (111 Occurrences) Stump (7 Occurrences) Opened (182 Occurrences) Knocks (5 Occurrences) Knocketh (4 Occurrences) Listens (28 Occurrences) Really (100 Occurrences) Resources What did Jesus mean when He told us to ask, seek, and knock? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said, “I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20)? | GotQuestions.org Is door-to-door evangelism an effective method? | GotQuestions.org Knocking: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Knocking (9 Occurrences)Matthew 7:8 Luke 11:9 Luke 11:10 Luke 13:25 Acts 12:16 Revelation 3:20 Song of Songs 5:2 Daniel 5:6 Nahum 2:10 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |