Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Punishing, in the biblical context, refers to the act of inflicting a penalty or consequence for wrongdoing or sin. It is a concept deeply rooted in the justice and holiness of God, who is portrayed as both loving and just. Punishment serves as a means to uphold divine law, correct behavior, and maintain order within the community of believers. Old Testament Perspective In the Old Testament, punishment is often depicted as a direct consequence of disobedience to God's commandments. The Law of Moses outlines various punishments for specific transgressions, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. For instance, Leviticus 26:18 states, "And if after all this you will not obey Me, I will proceed to punish you sevenfold for your sins." This reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where blessings and curses are contingent upon obedience. The account of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3 illustrates the introduction of punishment into the human experience. Their disobedience resulted in expulsion from the Garden of Eden and the introduction of death and suffering into the world. Similarly, the narrative of the Flood in Genesis 6-9 demonstrates God's willingness to punish widespread wickedness, while also providing a means of salvation for the righteous. New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, the concept of punishment is closely linked to the themes of repentance and redemption. Jesus Christ's teachings often highlight the reality of divine judgment and the necessity of turning away from sin. In Matthew 25:46, Jesus speaks of the final judgment, stating, "And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life." The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of punishment in his epistles. In Romans 6:23, he writes, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." This verse underscores the ultimate consequence of sin while simultaneously offering hope through the redemptive work of Christ. Divine Justice and Mercy While punishment is a recurring theme in Scripture, it is always balanced with God's mercy and desire for repentance. Ezekiel 18:23 reveals God's heart, "Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Lord GOD. Wouldn't I prefer that he turn from his ways and live?" This verse highlights God's preference for repentance over punishment, emphasizing His compassionate nature. The sacrificial system in the Old Testament and the atoning work of Christ in the New Testament both demonstrate God's provision for dealing with sin. Hebrews 12:6 reminds believers, "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives." This discipline is not merely punitive but is intended to guide believers toward holiness and spiritual maturity. Human Authority and Punishment Scripture also addresses the role of human authorities in administering punishment. Romans 13:4 states, "For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." This passage affirms the legitimacy of governmental authority in maintaining justice and order. Conclusion The biblical concept of punishing is multifaceted, encompassing divine justice, human responsibility, and the hope of redemption. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance, while also pointing to the grace and mercy available through faith in Jesus Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Punish.Greek 2849. kolazo -- to chastise ... 2849 -- properly, to dwarf, mutilate (curtail); used of punishing slaves to them; hence, to (cause ) to ("dock/check," ), ie in a way that restrains (impedes ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2849.htm - 6k 3710. orgizo -- to make angry Strong's Hebrew 7725. shub -- to turn back, return... 1), keeps (2), make them return (1), make restitution (1), paid (2), pass your again (1), pass away (1), pay (1), pays us back in full (2), punishing (1), put ... /hebrew/7725.htm - 9k 7626. shebet -- rod, staff, club, scepter, tribe Library The Law, Even in Correcting and Punishing, Aims at the Good of Men ... "That the Righteousness of the Law Might be Fulfilled in Us. " Whether Clemency and Meekness are Absolutely the Same? How we are to Unite Our Will with God's in the Permission of Sins. The Apocalypse of Peter. To Raimondo of Capua of the Order of the Preachers Chastisement Whether to Swear is to Call God to Witness? Whether Vengeance is a Special virtue? Whether Cruelty is Opposed to Clemency? Thesaurus Punishing (7 Occurrences)... n.) of Punish. Multi-Version Concordance Punishing (7 Occurrences). ... (WEY). Acts 26:11 Punishing them often in all the synagogues, I tried to make them blaspheme. ... /p/punishing.htm - 8k Quite (55 Occurrences) Often (74 Occurrences) Oftentimes (7 Occurrences) Obsession (1 Occurrence) Oft (18 Occurrences) Justice (212 Occurrences) Furious (28 Occurrences) Furiously (9 Occurrences) Foreign (65 Occurrences) Resources Why did God punish David and Bathsheba's innocent child with death? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is retribution theology? | GotQuestions.org Are children punished for the sins of their parents? | GotQuestions.org Punishing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Punishing (7 Occurrences)Acts 4:21 Acts 26:11 Exodus 20:5 Deuteronomy 5:9 Judges 8:16 2 Chronicles 6:23 Isaiah 30:32 Subtopics Related Terms |
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