Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical literature, the term "recoils" is not directly mentioned in the Scriptures. However, the concept of recoiling, which involves drawing back in fear, surprise, or disgust, can be related to various biblical themes and narratives. This entry explores the idea of recoiling as it pertains to human reactions to divine encounters, sin, and moral revulsion.Divine Encounters and Human Recoil Throughout the Bible, individuals often recoil in the presence of the divine due to the overwhelming holiness and majesty of God. A notable example is found in the book of Isaiah. When the prophet Isaiah has a vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, he responds with a sense of unworthiness and fear: "Woe is me, for I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell among a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of Hosts" (Isaiah 6:5). Isaiah's reaction exemplifies a spiritual recoil, a drawing back in recognition of human sinfulness in the face of divine purity. Similarly, in the New Testament, the apostle Peter experiences a moment of recoil when he witnesses the miraculous catch of fish orchestrated by Jesus. Overcome by the realization of Jesus' divine power, Peter falls at Jesus' knees and says, "Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!" (Luke 5:8). This response highlights the natural human tendency to recoil from the divine when confronted with one's own sinfulness. Recoil from Sin and Evil The Bible also addresses the concept of recoiling from sin and evil. Believers are called to abhor what is evil and cling to what is good (Romans 12:9). This moral recoil is an essential aspect of living a life that is pleasing to God. The psalmist expresses this sentiment by declaring, "I gain understanding from Your precepts; therefore I hate every false way" (Psalm 119:104). Here, the recoil from falsehood and sin is portrayed as a natural outcome of understanding and embracing God's commandments. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom is personified and depicted as recoiling from evil: "The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; I hate arrogant pride, evil conduct, and perverse speech" (Proverbs 8:13). This passage underscores the idea that a reverent fear of the Lord leads to a natural aversion to sin and wickedness. Moral Revulsion and Righteous Indignation The concept of recoiling can also be seen in the context of moral revulsion and righteous indignation. Jesus Himself demonstrates this when He cleanses the temple, driving out those who were buying and selling there. His actions reflect a holy recoil against the desecration of a sacred space: "And He declared to them, 'It is written: My house will be called a house of prayer. But you are making it a den of robbers!'" (Matthew 21:13). Jesus' response is a powerful example of recoiling from corruption and injustice. In the epistles, believers are encouraged to maintain a similar stance against sin and immorality. The apostle Paul exhorts the Corinthians to separate themselves from unrighteousness: "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14). This call to separation is a form of spiritual recoil, urging believers to distance themselves from influences that could lead them away from God's truth. In summary, while the specific term "recoils" may not appear in the biblical text, the concept is woven throughout Scripture in various forms. Whether in response to divine encounters, sin, or moral corruption, the act of recoiling serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the call for believers to live in accordance with His righteousness. Library Book I. The Cruelty of the Sacrifices to the Gods. Hazael Unbelief. The Relation of the Will of God to Sanctification The Christian Rejoicing in the views of Death and Judgment. On the Immeasurable Dignity of Temporal Suffering. The Voice of Job. This Whole Confession of These Beings, in which they Declare that ... Second Tractate. The Heavenly Circuit. Thesaurus Recoils (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Recoils (2 Occurrences). Psalms 7:16 The trouble he causes shall return to his own head. His violence shall ... /r/recoils.htm - 6k Recollect (3 Occurrences) Recoil (1 Occurrence) Slander (34 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that humanity is made in the image of God (imago dei)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of travail in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Recoils (2 Occurrences)Psalms 7:16 Hosea 11:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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