Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, the term "wax" is often used metaphorically to describe a process of growth, increase, or change in state. The word appears in various contexts, illustrating both positive and negative transformations. Below are some key scriptural references and themes concerning the concept of "wax" in the Bible.1. Waxing Strong in Spirit: The concept of waxing strong is used to describe spiritual growth and maturity. In Luke 1:80, it is said of John the Baptist, "And the child grew and waxed strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel." This indicates a process of spiritual strengthening and preparation for his prophetic ministry. 2. Waxing Great in Power and Influence: The Bible also uses "wax" to describe the increase in power or influence. In Genesis 26:13, concerning Isaac, it is written, "The man became rich, and his wealth continued to grow until he became very wealthy." Although the BSB does not use the word "wax," the concept of increasing wealth and influence is evident. 3. Waxing Old and Decaying: The term is used to describe aging or deterioration. In Hebrews 8:13, the author speaks of the old covenant, saying, "By speaking of a new covenant, He has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear." Here, the idea of waxing old signifies the fading relevance of the old covenant in light of the new covenant established through Christ. 4. Hearts Waxing Cold: In Matthew 24:12, Jesus warns of a time when "because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold." The phrase "grow cold" is akin to waxing cold, indicating a decline in fervor and love due to increasing iniquity. 5. Waxing Fat and Complacent: Deuteronomy 32:15 describes Israel's spiritual complacency: "But Jeshurun grew fat and kicked; you grew fat, thick, and sleek—he abandoned the God who made him and scorned the Rock of his salvation." The imagery of waxing fat symbolizes prosperity leading to spiritual neglect and rebellion. 6. Waxing Bold in Faith: Acts 13:46 records Paul and Barnabas waxing bold in their proclamation of the Gospel: "Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: 'It was necessary to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.'" Here, waxing bold reflects an increase in courage and determination in the face of opposition. 7. Waxing Worse and Worse: In 2 Timothy 3:13, Paul warns Timothy about the progression of evil: "while evil men and impostors go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." The phrase "go from bad to worse" is a depiction of moral and spiritual decline, akin to waxing worse. The use of "wax" in the Bible serves as a vivid metaphor for various processes of change, whether it be growth, decline, or transformation. These scriptural references provide insight into the dynamic nature of spiritual and moral states as depicted in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 22:14I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the middle of my bowels. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 68:2 Psalm 97:5 Micah 1:4 Library On the Sufficiency and Perfection of the Holy Scriptures In On the Words Incarnate, and Made Man. Concerning the Lord's Supper On the Clause, and Shall Come in Glory to Judge the Quick and the ... Concerning Worship. According to which principle or hypothesis all the objections ... The Third vision "In Heaven" The Seventh Book The Catholic Epistles. On Idolatry Resources Why did Jesus have to experience so much suffering? | GotQuestions.orgWas some of Proverbs copied from the Instruction of Amenemope? | GotQuestions.org Is it allowable to use candles in connection with prayer? | GotQuestions.org Wax: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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