Topical Encyclopedia Definition: Repiners are individuals who express dissatisfaction or discontent, often through murmuring or complaining. In a biblical context, repining is seen as a lack of faith and trust in God's providence and goodness. The act of repining is frequently associated with a rebellious or ungrateful attitude towards God's provision and plans. Biblical References and Context: The concept of repining is illustrated in several passages throughout the Bible, where the Israelites often serve as examples of this behavior. Their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land is marked by instances of murmuring and complaining against God and His appointed leaders. 1. Exodus 16:2-3 : "And there in the desert they all grumbled against Moses and Aaron. 'If only we had died by the LORD’s hand in the land of Egypt,' they said. 'There we sat by pots of meat and ate our fill of bread, but you have brought us into this desert to starve this whole assembly to death!'" In this passage, the Israelites express dissatisfaction with their circumstances, longing for the comforts of Egypt despite their previous bondage. Their repining reflects a lack of trust in God's provision and a failure to remember His past deliverance. 2. Numbers 14:2-4 : "All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron, and the whole congregation said to them, 'If only we had died in the land of Egypt, or if only we had died in this wilderness! Why is the LORD bringing us into this land to fall by the sword? Our wives and children will become plunder. Would it not be better for us to go back to Egypt?' So they said to one another, 'Let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt.'" Here, the Israelites' repining leads to rebellion, as they contemplate returning to Egypt and rejecting God's plan for them. This passage highlights the destructive nature of repining, which can lead to a complete turning away from God's will. 3. Philippians 2:14-15 : "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world." The Apostle Paul exhorts believers to avoid complaining, contrasting the behavior of repiners with the conduct expected of God's children. By refraining from repining, Christians can stand out as examples of faith and trust in a world that often lacks these virtues. Theological Implications: Repining is often viewed as a sin because it reflects a heart that is not fully trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness. It can lead to a spirit of rebellion and ingratitude, which are contrary to the virtues of faith, hope, and love that are central to the Christian life. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude, recognizing that God's plans are ultimately for their good (Romans 8:28). Practical Application: Christians are called to examine their hearts and attitudes, seeking to replace repining with praise and thanksgiving. By focusing on God's faithfulness and promises, believers can overcome the temptation to complain and instead cultivate a spirit of joy and trust. Engaging in regular prayer and meditation on Scripture can help reinforce a mindset of gratitude and reliance on God's provision. Concordance Repiners (1 Occurrence)Jude 1:16 Thesaurus Repiners (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Repiners (1 Occurrence). Jude 1:16 These are murmurers, repiners; according to their desires walking, and ... /r/repiners.htm - 6k Replace (11 Occurrences) Reph'idim (5 Occurrences) Swellings (1 Occurrence) Desires (151 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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