Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept: The term "proportionately" refers to the concept of balance, fairness, and appropriate distribution according to a certain standard or measure. In biblical terms, it often relates to the idea of justice, equity, and the fair allocation of resources, responsibilities, or rewards according to God's standards.Biblical References: 1. Justice and Fairness: The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness, which inherently involves proportionality. In Leviticus 19:15 , it is written, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly." This verse underscores the principle of judging and acting proportionately, without bias or favoritism. 2. Proportional Giving: The concept of giving proportionately is evident in the teachings on tithing and offerings. In 2 Corinthians 9:7 , Paul writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." This suggests that giving should be proportionate to one's means and done willingly. 3. Rewards and Consequences: The Bible also speaks of rewards and consequences being meted out proportionately. In Matthew 16:27 , Jesus says, "For the Son of Man will come in His Father’s glory with His angels, and then He will repay each one according to what he has done." This indicates a proportional relationship between one's actions and the rewards or consequences received. 4. Parables of Proportionality: Jesus often used parables to illustrate the principle of proportionality. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), servants are entrusted with different amounts of money, and their rewards are proportionate to how they managed what they were given. This parable highlights the expectation of faithful stewardship and the proportional rewards based on one's diligence and responsibility. 5. Equality in the Body of Christ: The New Testament teaches that all members of the body of Christ are important and should be treated with equal care and respect. In 1 Corinthians 12:24-25 , Paul writes, "But God has composed the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its members should have mutual concern for one another." This reflects the idea of proportionality in honor and care within the Christian community. Theological Implications: · Divine Justice: God's justice is inherently proportional, as He judges and rewards individuals based on their actions and intentions. This reflects His perfect nature and the moral order He has established. · Stewardship: Believers are called to be good stewards of the resources and talents God has entrusted to them, using them proportionately for His glory and the benefit of others. · Community and Equality: The principle of proportionality supports the idea of equality and mutual care within the Christian community, ensuring that each member is valued and supported according to their needs and contributions. Practical Applications: · Personal Conduct: Christians are encouraged to act justly and fairly in all their dealings, ensuring that their actions are proportionate to the circumstances and needs of others. · Church Life: In church settings, proportionality can guide the distribution of resources, responsibilities, and recognition, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation. · Social Justice: The biblical principle of proportionality can inform Christian engagement in social justice, advocating for systems and policies that reflect fairness and equity. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (adv.) In a proportionate manner; with due proportion; proportionally.Library Whether Magnanimity is About Honors? Grace and Truth Preface Concerning Sacerdotal Consecrations. For what Reason the Prophet Isaiah is Said to have Been Purified ... Gregory Laments his Departure under a Threefold Comparison ... The Noble Results of this Species of Prayer Last Journey and Death, 1858 --Concluding Remarks. Growth in Grace Dreams Variously Classified Some are God-Sent, as the Dreams of ... Thesaurus Proportionately (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (adv.) In a proportionate manner; with due proportion; proportionally. Multi-Version Concordance Proportionately (1 Occurrence). ... /p/proportionately.htm - 7k Nethan'el (14 Occurrences) Proportions (3 Occurrences) Proportionate (1 Occurrence) Ahim'elech (16 Occurrences) Shemai'ah (38 Occurrences) Scale (38 Occurrences) Ith'amar (20 Occurrences) Abi'athar (28 Occurrences) Elea'zar (72 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about sowing and reaping? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about social justice? | GotQuestions.org What is the principle of double effect? | GotQuestions.org Proportionately: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Proportionately (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 24:6 Subtopics Related Terms |