Topical Encyclopedia The term "minus" does not appear directly in the Bible; however, it can be conceptually related to themes of loss, subtraction, or deficiency, which are present throughout the Scriptures. In a biblical context, these themes often relate to spiritual, moral, or material aspects of life.Spiritual Loss and Deficiency The Bible frequently addresses the concept of spiritual loss or deficiency, often in the context of sin and separation from God. In Romans 3:23 , it is stated, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This verse highlights the universal spiritual deficiency of humanity due to sin, which results in a separation from the divine presence and glory of God. The parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:4-7 illustrates the concept of spiritual loss and the joy of restoration. Jesus tells of a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost, emphasizing God's desire to restore those who are spiritually deficient or lost. Moral and Ethical Subtraction The Bible also addresses moral and ethical subtraction, where individuals or societies fall short of God's standards. In the Old Testament, the Israelites are often depicted as falling into idolatry and moral decay, leading to their downfall and exile. The prophets, such as Isaiah and Jeremiah, frequently called the people to repentance, urging them to return to God's commandments and avoid the moral deficiencies that led to their judgment. In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the importance of moral integrity and the dangers of hypocrisy. In Matthew 23:23 , He criticizes the Pharisees for neglecting the "weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness," highlighting the moral subtraction that occurs when external religious observance is prioritized over genuine ethical behavior. Material Loss and Subtraction Material loss is another theme that can be associated with the concept of "minus." The account of Job is a profound example of material and personal loss. Job loses his wealth, health, and family, yet his faith remains steadfast. In Job 1:21 , he declares, "Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD." This reflects a recognition of God's sovereignty over material gain and loss. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about the transient nature of material wealth and the importance of spiritual riches. In Matthew 6:19-20 , He advises, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." Conclusion While the specific term "minus" is not found in the Bible, the underlying concepts of loss, subtraction, and deficiency are integral to biblical teachings. These themes serve as reminders of the human condition, the need for divine grace, and the call to live according to God's standards. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Less; requiring to be subtracted; negative; as, a minus quantity.Library Ages and Periods of Biblical History. Cyrus Essay on Faith. Of the Order in which the Accounts of John's Imprisonment and ... No Addition Can be Made to the Nature of God. Reasonable Rapture The History of Cassian's Writings, Mss. , and Editions. Articuli Sive Conclusiones Lxvii. H. Zwinglii. The Critical and Historical Movement section ii. Thesaurus Minus (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (a.) Less; requiring to be subtracted; negative; as, a minus quantity. Multi-Version Concordance Minus (1 Occurrence). ... /m/minus.htm - 6k Mint (2 Occurrences) Minute (19 Occurrences) Less (93 Occurrences) Forty (142 Occurrences) Thirty-nine (2 Occurrences) Plus (2 Occurrences) Stripes (19 Occurrences) Sign (181 Occurrences) Jesus (10891 Occurrences) Resources Did the Romans give Jesus 39 lashes? | GotQuestions.orgCan Christians live their best life now? | GotQuestions.org Can I really do all things through Christ? | GotQuestions.org Minus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Minus (1 Occurrence)2 Corinthians 11:24 Subtopics Related Terms Breathing-space (1 Occurrence) |