Definition and Context:
In the biblical context, a meddler is someone who involves themselves in matters that do not concern them, often leading to unnecessary conflict or strife. The term is generally used to describe individuals who interfere in the affairs of others, often with negative consequences. Meddling is viewed as a behavior that disrupts peace and harmony within communities and relationships.

Biblical References:
The Bible addresses the issue of meddling in several passages, warning against the dangers and consequences of such behavior. One of the most direct references is found in the New Testament:

· 1 Peter 4:15 : "But if you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler."

This verse places meddlers in the same category as criminals, highlighting the seriousness with which meddling is viewed. It suggests that suffering for being a meddler is not honorable, contrasting it with suffering for righteousness.

· Proverbs 26:17 : "Like one who grabs a dog by the ears is a passerby who meddles in a quarrel not his own."

This proverb uses a vivid metaphor to illustrate the foolishness and potential danger of meddling in disputes that do not involve oneself. Grabbing a dog by the ears is likely to result in harm, just as interfering in others' conflicts can lead to negative repercussions.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, meddling is seen as a violation of the principles of love and respect for others' autonomy. The Bible encourages believers to live peaceably with all (Romans 12:18) and to mind their own affairs (1 Thessalonians 4:11). Meddling disrupts this peace and can lead to discord and division within the body of Christ.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:
Meddling is often rooted in pride, curiosity, or a desire to control situations. It reflects a lack of trust in God's sovereignty and a failure to respect the boundaries of others. Christians are called to exercise wisdom and discernment, ensuring that their involvement in others' lives is motivated by love and a genuine desire to help, rather than a need to interfere.

Practical Advice:
Believers are encouraged to focus on their own responsibilities and to offer counsel or assistance only when invited or when it is clear that intervention is necessary for the well-being of others. Practicing humility and seeking guidance through prayer can help individuals avoid the pitfalls of meddling.

Conclusion:
While the Bible acknowledges the importance of community and mutual support, it also warns against the dangers of overstepping boundaries and becoming involved in matters that do not concern us. By adhering to biblical principles, believers can foster harmony and respect within their communities.

Paul on his Own Conversion
... That is his account of the matter, which would not have been meddled with if the
meddlers had not taken offence at 'the supernatural element.' We note the ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/paul on his own conversion.htm

Whether those Angels who Demand that we Pay them Divine Honor, or ...
... sacrifice we ourselves ought to be? Footnotes: [410] Ennead. 1. vi. 7.
[411] Meaning, officious meddlers. [412] Pharsal. vi. 503. ...
/.../augustine/city of god/chapter 16 whether those angels who.htm

Thou Shalt in any Wise Rebuke Thy Neighbor, and not Suffer Sin ...
... does not concern them. And they are called meddlers and busybodies, for
interfering in other people's concerns. At the south, they ...
/.../finney/lectures to professing christians/thou shalt in any wise.htm

Meddlers (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Meddlers (1 Occurrence). 1 Timothy 5:13 And,
at the same time, they learn also to be idle, going about ...
/m/meddlers.htm - 6k

Gossipers (1 Occurrence)
... 5:13 And, at the same time, they learn also to be idle, going about to people's
houses; and not only idle, but also gossipers and meddlers, speaking things not ...
/g/gossipers.htm - 6k

Meddler (1 Occurrence)

/m/meddler.htm - 6k

Meddles (1 Occurrence)

/m/meddles.htm - 6k

People's (37 Occurrences)
... 5:13 And, at the same time, they learn also to be idle, going about to people's
houses; and not only idle, but also gossipers and meddlers, speaking things not ...
/p/people's.htm - 18k

Becoming (75 Occurrences)
... 5:13 And, at the same time, they learn also to be idle, going about to people's
houses; and not only idle, but also gossipers and meddlers, speaking things not ...
/b/becoming.htm - 27k

Discomfiture (6 Occurrences)
... and the conduct of Christ's people, if they were evil-doers, "haters of the human
race," to be classed with thieves and murderers and meddlers in other men's ...
/d/discomfiture.htm - 101k

Houses (308 Occurrences)
... 5:13 And, at the same time, they learn also to be idle, going about to people's
houses; and not only idle, but also gossipers and meddlers, speaking things not ...
/h/houses.htm - 38k

Peter (181 Occurrences)
... and the conduct of Christ's people, if they were evil-doers, "haters of the human
race," to be classed with thieves and murderers and meddlers in other men's ...
/p/peter.htm - 101k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus