Topical Encyclopedia Railing, in the biblical context, refers to abusive or scornful language directed towards others. It is often associated with reviling, mocking, or speaking contemptuously. The Bible provides several instances where railing is depicted, often highlighting the sinful nature of such behavior and its consequences.Old Testament Instances: 1. Goliath's Taunts (1 Samuel 17:43-44): Goliath, the Philistine giant, railed against David, mocking him and cursing him by his gods. He said, "Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?" This instance illustrates the arrogance and disdain Goliath had for the young shepherd boy, David. 2. Shimei's Curses (2 Samuel 16:5-8): As King David fled from Absalom, Shimei, a man from the house of Saul, came out cursing and throwing stones at David and his servants. Shimei accused David of being a "man of blood" and a "worthless man," railing against him in his time of distress. 3. Hezekiah's Confrontation with Rabshakeh (2 Kings 18:28-35): The Assyrian official Rabshakeh stood and called out in Hebrew to the people of Jerusalem, railing against King Hezekiah and the God of Israel. He mocked their trust in the Lord, attempting to demoralize them with his blasphemous speech. New Testament Instances: 1. The Thief on the Cross (Luke 23:39): One of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus railed at Him, saying, "Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!" This instance highlights the hardened heart of the thief, even in the face of death. 2. The Accusations Against Jesus (Mark 15:29-32): As Jesus hung on the cross, those who passed by railed at Him, wagging their heads and saying, "Ha! You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save Yourself, and come down from the cross!" The chief priests and scribes also mocked Him, showing their contempt and disbelief. 3. Jude's Warning (Jude 1:8-10): Jude warns against false teachers who rail against celestial beings, speaking arrogantly and without understanding. He contrasts their behavior with that of Michael the archangel, who, when disputing with the devil, did not dare to rail against him but said, "The Lord rebuke you!" Biblical Teachings on Railing: The Bible consistently condemns railing as a sinful act. In Ephesians 4:31, believers are instructed to "get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice." Similarly, 1 Peter 3:9 advises, "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." Railing is seen as contrary to the character of a follower of Christ, who is called to speak with grace and truth. The instances of railing in the Bible serve as warnings against the destructive power of the tongue and the importance of maintaining a spirit of humility and respect towards others. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 25:14But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's wife, saying, Behold, David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he railed on them. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 16:7 Mark 15:29 Library The Penitent Thief The Ministerial Office The Life of Mr. David Dickson. "Thou Canst Make Me Clean" The Wilderness State The Preface. The True Gentleman Pagan Shrines and Temples. Letter ccvii. To the Clergy of Neoc??sarea. On Patience Resources Railing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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