Topical Encyclopedia The term "purport" refers to the intended meaning or significance of a statement, action, or text. In the context of biblical studies, understanding the purport of Scripture involves discerning the underlying message or theological intent conveyed by the biblical authors under divine inspiration. This requires careful exegesis and interpretation, taking into account the historical, cultural, and literary contexts of the biblical passages.Biblical Context and Interpretation The Bible, as the inspired Word of God, contains a wealth of teachings, narratives, laws, prophecies, and poetry, each with its own purport. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding the purport of Scripture in 2 Timothy 2:15 : "Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth." This verse underscores the necessity of rightly dividing the Word to grasp its true meaning and apply it faithfully. Old Testament Examples In the Old Testament, the purport of the Law given to Israel is to establish a covenant relationship between God and His people, setting them apart as a holy nation. The Ten Commandments, for instance, encapsulate the moral and spiritual principles that guide this relationship (Exodus 20:1-17). The purport of the prophetic writings often involves calling Israel back to faithfulness and foretelling the coming of the Messiah, as seen in Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant. New Testament Examples The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of the New Covenant through Jesus Christ. The purport of the Gospels is to present the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus as the foundation of salvation. John 20:31 states, "But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." This verse highlights the evangelistic and salvific purport of John's Gospel. The Epistles further elucidate the implications of the Gospel for the life of the believer and the church. For example, the purport of Paul's letter to the Romans is to expound on the righteousness that comes by faith and the transformative power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16-17). Theological Significance Understanding the purport of Scripture is crucial for developing sound theology and doctrine. It involves recognizing the central themes of the Bible, such as the sovereignty of God, the sinfulness of humanity, the redemptive work of Christ, and the call to holiness. The purport of Scripture is not merely informational but transformational, intended to lead believers into a deeper relationship with God and conformity to the image of Christ. Practical Application In practical terms, discerning the purport of Scripture requires prayerful study, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and engagement with the broader Christian community. It involves a commitment to living out the truths of Scripture in daily life, as James 1:22 exhorts: "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." By understanding and applying the purport of Scripture, believers are equipped to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and grace. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v.) To intend to show; to present a false appearance; as to purport oneself to be a dignitary.2. (n.) Design or tendency; meaning; import; tenor. Library The Preface. --The Plan and Purport of the Whole Epitome, and of ... The General Purport of this Work the Heretics, Marcion, Apelles ... The Purport of Ancient Scholia, and Notes in Mss. On the Subject ... The Purport of Ancient Scholia, and Notes in Mss. On the Subject ... Of the Gods Peculiar to the Romans, and their Sacred Rites. Recapitulation of Yesterday's Argument. Thoughts Upon the Mystery of the Trinity. Chapter ix. Against the Belief of those who Think that the Sins which have ... The Saybrook Platform Thesaurus Purport (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (v.) To intend to show; to present a false appearance; as to purport oneself to be a dignitary. ...Purport (1 Occurrence). ... /p/purport.htm - 6k Tenor (5 Occurrences) Ucal (1 Occurrence) Ithiel (2 Occurrences) Import (2 Occurrences) Effect (173 Occurrences) Purporting (1 Occurrence) Bearing (150 Occurrences) Christianity Apart (228 Occurrences) Resources Is seeing spirits / demons an ability God gives to some people? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is evolutionary creationism? | GotQuestions.org What is a prophet in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Purport: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Purport (1 Occurrence)Luke 18:1 Subtopics Related Terms |