The term "opposest" is an archaic form of the verb "oppose," which means to resist, withstand, or act in opposition to something or someone. In the context of the Bible, opposition can manifest in various forms, including spiritual, moral, and physical resistance against God's will, His people, or His commandments.

Biblical Context

1. Spiritual Opposition: The Bible frequently addresses the theme of spiritual opposition, particularly in the context of the struggle between good and evil. Satan is often depicted as the ultimate adversary who opposes God's plans and purposes. In the New Testament, believers are warned to be vigilant against the devil's schemes. James 4:7 advises, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

2. Moral Opposition: Throughout Scripture, individuals and nations are often depicted as opposing God's moral laws. This opposition can lead to judgment and consequences. For example, the prophets frequently called out Israel for opposing God's commandments and turning to idolatry. Isaiah 1:20 warns, "But if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken."

3. Opposition to God's People: The Bible records numerous instances where God's people faced opposition from surrounding nations or individuals. This opposition often served as a test of faith and reliance on God. In the book of Acts, the early church faced significant opposition from religious and political authorities. Acts 5:39 states, "But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God."

4. Personal Opposition: On a personal level, believers are called to stand firm in their faith despite opposition from the world. Jesus Himself warned His followers that they would face opposition for His name's sake. In John 15:18-19 , Jesus says, "If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world."

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, opposition is often seen as a test of faith and an opportunity for spiritual growth. Believers are encouraged to rely on God's strength and wisdom when facing opposition. Ephesians 6:11-12 instructs, "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Practical Application

In practical terms, Christians are called to respond to opposition with love, patience, and perseverance. Romans 12:21 exhorts, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." This approach reflects the transformative power of the Gospel and the call to be peacemakers in a world often characterized by conflict and opposition.

In summary, the concept of "opposest" in the Bible encompasses a range of resistances against God's will, His people, and His moral order. Believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, relying on God's strength to overcome opposition in all its forms.

Seest Thou How, at the End of the Contest...
... Fragment, Uncertain. Thou contendest with Me, and settest thyself against Me, and
opposest those who combat for Me. But where wert thou when I made the world? ...
/.../methodius/the writings of methodius fragments/iv seest thou how at.htm

Rom. Ix. 1
... indignation in the question, and does not say, "Who art thou that" answerest "God?"
but, "that repliest against," that is, that gainsayest, and that opposest. ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xvi rom ix 1.htm

A Traveler's Note-Book
... and thou regardest me not. Thou art become cruel to me; with thy strong
hand thou opposest thyself against me. I know that thou ...
/.../merriam/the chief end of man/iii a travelers note-book.htm

Opposest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Opposest (1 Occurrence). Job 30:21 Thou art become cruel
to me: with thy strong hand thou opposest thyself against me. (KJV WBS). ...
/o/opposest.htm - 6k

Opposes (7 Occurrences)

/o/opposes.htm - 8k

Opposeth (1 Occurrence)

/o/opposeth.htm - 6k

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