Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept:Responsibility in the biblical context refers to the duty and obligation to act righteously and fulfill one's roles and commitments as ordained by God. It encompasses personal accountability, stewardship, and the moral duty to adhere to God's commandments and teachings. Biblical Foundations: The concept of responsibility is deeply rooted in Scripture, beginning with the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands humanity to "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth." This mandate establishes humanity's responsibility to steward and care for creation. Personal Responsibility: The Bible emphasizes personal responsibility in various aspects of life. In Ezekiel 18:20 , it is stated, "The soul who sins is the one who will die. A son will not bear the iniquity of his father, nor will a father bear the iniquity of his son. The righteousness of the righteous man will fall upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked man will fall upon him." This passage underscores the principle that individuals are accountable for their own actions and decisions. Stewardship: Stewardship is a significant aspect of biblical responsibility. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the importance of using one's gifts and resources wisely. The servants are entrusted with their master's wealth, and their responsibility is to manage it effectively. The parable teaches that God expects His followers to be diligent and faithful stewards of the resources and opportunities He provides. Family and Community: The Bible also addresses responsibility within the family and community. Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This verse highlights the parental responsibility to nurture and guide children in the ways of the Lord. Similarly, Galatians 6:2 encourages believers to "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ," emphasizing communal responsibility and support. Work and Vocation: Colossians 3:23-24 speaks to the responsibility in work and vocation: "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage calls believers to perform their duties with diligence and integrity, recognizing their work as service to God. Moral and Ethical Responsibility: The Bible calls for adherence to moral and ethical standards. Micah 6:8 succinctly states, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse encapsulates the ethical responsibilities of justice, mercy, and humility that God expects from His people. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide a single definition of responsibility, it offers a comprehensive framework through various teachings and narratives. Responsibility is a multifaceted concept that encompasses personal accountability, stewardship, family and community obligations, vocational diligence, and adherence to moral and ethical standards. Through these principles, believers are called to live lives that honor God and reflect His character. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The state of being responsible, accountable, or answerable, as for a trust, debt, or obligation.2. (n.) That for which anyone is responsible or accountable; as, the responsibilities of power. 3. (n.) Ability to answer in payment; means of paying. Greek 2233. hegeomai -- to lead, suppose ... [2233 ("an official who ") carries important responsibility and hence "casts a heavy vote" (influence) -- and hence deserve cooperation by those who are led ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2233.htm - 9k 422. anepaischuntos -- not to be put to shame 3784. opheilo -- to owe 324. anadechomai -- to undertake, receive 4234. praxis -- a deed, function 2322. therapeia -- attention, medical service 4102. pistis -- faith, faithfulness Strong's Hebrew 6486. pequddah -- oversight, mustering, visitation, store... 1), executioners (1), fate (1), muster (2), office (1), officers (1), offices (3), oversight (2), prison* (1), punishment (11), responsibility (2), stored (1). ... /hebrew/6486.htm - 6k 530. emunah -- firmness, steadfastness, fidelity 5921. al -- upon, above, over Library Human Responsibility Responsibility. Responsibility Asserted. Sovereignty and Human Responsibility Sovereign Grace and Man's Responsibility Responsibility of Knowledge. Responsibility of Men. Knowledge Enhances Responsibility. Peter's Responsibility in the Case of victor. Man's Responsibility for his Acts. Thesaurus Responsibility (17 Occurrences)... power. 3. (n.) Ability to answer in payment; means of paying. Multi-Version Concordance Responsibility (17 Occurrences). Matthew ... /r/responsibility.htm - 11k Guilt (180 Occurrences) Accountability Charge (379 Occurrences) Care (466 Occurrences) Shoulder (72 Occurrences) Keys (2 Occurrences) Power (862 Occurrences) Imputation Responsible (242 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about personal responsibility? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about a Christian's responsibility? | GotQuestions.org Does a son bear any responsibility for the sins of the father? | GotQuestions.org Responsibility: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Responsibility (17 Occurrences)Matthew 27:4 Matthew 27:24 Acts 6:3 Acts 18:6 Colossians 1:25 1 Timothy 5:22 Numbers 4:16 Numbers 4:27 Numbers 18:1 Numbers 18:4 Numbers 18:23 1 Chronicles 9:26 1 Chronicles 9:31 1 Chronicles 15:22 Ezra 10:4 Nehemiah 10:32 Nehemiah 10:35 Subtopics Responsibility: According to Privilege Responsibility: Assumed by the Jewish Leaders for the Death of Jesus Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Aaron Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Adam Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Esau Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Eve Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Pontius Pilate Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Sarah Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Saul Related Terms |