Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Nurture, in a biblical context, refers to the process of caring for and encouraging the growth or development of someone or something. It encompasses the ideas of education, training, discipline, and guidance, particularly in the spiritual and moral upbringing of individuals. The concept of nurture is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the responsibility of parents, leaders, and the community to foster spiritual maturity and godly character. Biblical References: 1. Ephesians 6:4 : "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This verse highlights the role of parents, particularly fathers, in nurturing their children. The emphasis is on raising children with a balance of discipline and instruction that aligns with the teachings of the Lord. The nurturing process involves guiding children in a way that does not lead to anger or resentment but rather encourages their spiritual growth and understanding of God's ways. 2. Proverbs 22:6 : "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This proverb underscores the long-term impact of nurturing a child in the ways of righteousness. The training and guidance provided during childhood are seen as foundational, setting a path that influences the child's future decisions and faithfulness to God's commandments. 3. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 : "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Here, the responsibility of nurturing is extended to the entire community of believers. The passage emphasizes the importance of integrating God's commandments into daily life and conversations, ensuring that children are constantly exposed to and reminded of God's truth. Theological Implications: Nurture in the biblical sense is not merely about physical care or education but is deeply intertwined with spiritual formation. It involves imparting wisdom, values, and a love for God that shapes an individual's character and worldview. The nurturing process is seen as a divine mandate, with parents and leaders acting as stewards of God's truth, entrusted with the task of guiding the next generation in faith. Practical Application: In practice, nurturing involves a combination of teaching, modeling, and correcting. It requires intentionality and consistency, as well as a reliance on God's wisdom and guidance. Parents and spiritual leaders are encouraged to create environments where biblical principles are taught and lived out, fostering a culture of faith and obedience to God. Role of the Church: The church community plays a vital role in nurturing believers, providing support, teaching, and fellowship that contribute to spiritual growth. Through sermons, Bible studies, and discipleship programs, the church aids in the nurturing process, equipping individuals to live out their faith in every aspect of life. Conclusion: The biblical concept of nurture is a comprehensive approach to spiritual and moral development, emphasizing the importance of guiding individuals in the ways of the Lord. It is a lifelong process that requires dedication, wisdom, and a commitment to living out and teaching God's truth. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The act of nourishing or nursing; bringing up; early education.2. (n.) That which nourishes; food; diet. 3. (v. t.) To feed; to nourish. 4. (v. t.) To educate; to bring or train up. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia NURTUREnur'-tur: The word occurs in the King James Version in Ephesians 6:4 as the translation of paideia, but the Revised Version (British and American) changes to "chastening," and uses "nurture" (verb) for the King James Version "bring up" (ektrepho) in the first part of the verse. Paideia has the idea of training and correction; in the Revised Version (British and American) 2 Esdras 8:12 for Latin erudio; and compare the King James Version The Wisdom of Solomon 3:11; Sirach 18:13 (paideuo), etc. Greek 1625. ektrepho -- to bring up to maturity, to nourish ... bring up to maturity, to nourish. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: ektrepho Phonetic Spelling: (ek-tref'-o) Short Definition: I nourish, nurture, bring up ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1625.htm - 7k 3809. paideia -- the rearing of a child, training, discipline 5043. teknon -- a child (of either sex) Library If Anyone Shall Forsake his Own Children and Shall not Nurture ... Home-Education. Responsibilities of the Christian Home. The Wonderful Skill with which Origen Prepares Gregory and ... Home as a Nursery. The Christian Home Family Religion. Thoughts Upon Christian Education. Homilies on Galatians and Ephesians. The Great Duty of Family Religion Thesaurus Nurture (1 Occurrence)... 4. (vt) To educate; to bring or train up. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. NURTURE. ... Multi-Version Concordance Nurture (1 Occurrence). ... /n/nurture.htm - 7k Foster (2 Occurrences) Chastening (11 Occurrences) Nurtured (3 Occurrences) Nursling (3 Occurrences) Nourish (16 Occurrences) Judaeus Instruction (117 Occurrences) Exasperate (2 Occurrences) Discipline (63 Occurrences) Resources I am a parent; how can I let go of my adult children? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about education? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about Christian mothers? | GotQuestions.org Nurture: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Nurture (1 Occurrence)Ephesians 6:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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