Definition and Usage:
The term "recompense" in the Bible refers to the act of giving something in return for a service, loss, or suffering. It is often used in the context of divine justice, where God rewards or punishes individuals based on their actions. The concept of recompense is closely tied to the principles of justice and righteousness, reflecting God's character as a fair and just judge.

Old Testament Context:
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "recompense" is "shalam," which means to make amends, to restore, or to repay. This concept is frequently associated with God's covenant relationship with Israel, where blessings and curses are contingent upon obedience or disobedience to His commandments.

For example, in Deuteronomy 32:35, God declares, "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay." This passage underscores the belief that God will ultimately bring justice, repaying individuals according to their deeds. Similarly, in Psalm 18:20, David acknowledges, "The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness; He has repaid me according to the cleanness of my hands."

New Testament Context:
In the New Testament, the Greek word "antapodosis" is used, which also means repayment or recompense. The concept is expanded to include eternal rewards and punishments, emphasizing the eschatological aspect of God's justice.

Jesus speaks of recompense in the context of rewards for righteous living. In Matthew 16:27, He states, "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 highlights the future judgment where each person's actions will be evaluated, and appropriate recompense will be given.

The Apostle Paul also addresses recompense in his epistles. In Romans 12:19, he advises believers, "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'" Here, Paul encourages Christians to trust in God's perfect justice rather than seeking personal revenge.

Theological Implications:
The doctrine of recompense is integral to understanding God's justice and mercy. It assures believers that God is aware of their struggles and will ultimately vindicate them. It also serves as a warning to the wicked that their actions will not go unpunished.

Recompense is not only about punishment but also about reward. Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes that God "rewards those who earnestly seek Him." This promise of recompense motivates believers to live faithfully, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Practical Application:
Believers are encouraged to live righteously, trusting that God will recompense them for their faithfulness. This trust in divine recompense allows Christians to endure suffering and injustice with patience, knowing that God will ultimately set things right.

Furthermore, the principle of recompense calls Christians to reflect God's justice in their own lives, treating others fairly and with integrity. It challenges believers to leave vengeance to God and to focus on living in a way that honors Him, confident in His promise to reward those who seek Him earnestly.

The Emperor Theodosius by Salaminius Hermias Sozomen, and Proposal ...
... Thou recompensest the speakers with thy favorable judgment and applause, as well
as with golden images, erection of statues, gifts, and every kind of honor. ...
/.../the ecclesiastical history of sozomenus/address to the emperor theodosius.htm

Light through Darkness
... by Thy great power and stretched-out arm, and there is nothing too hard for Thee:
Thou showest loving-kindness unto thousands, and recompensest the iniquity of ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 38 light through darkness.htm

Recompensest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Recompensest (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 32:18 Thou
shewest lovingkindness unto thousands, and recompensest...
/r/recompensest.htm - 6k

Recompenses (3 Occurrences)

/r/recompenses.htm - 7k

Recompenseth (2 Occurrences)

/r/recompenseth.htm - 6k

Shewest (6 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 32:18 Thou shewest lovingkindness unto thousands, and recompensest the
iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them: the Great ...
/s/shewest.htm - 8k

Showest (8 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 32:18 who showest lovingkindness unto thousands, and recompensest the iniquity
of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them; the great ...
/s/showest.htm - 8k

Shows (42 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 32:18 who showest mercy unto thousands, and recompensest the iniquity of
the fathers into the bosom of their children after them; the great, the ...
/s/shows.htm - 17k

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