In the context of biblical literature, the term "shoves" is not directly mentioned as a specific word in the Berean Standard Bible or other traditional translations. However, the concept of shoving, pushing, or forcefully moving someone or something can be inferred from various passages that describe physical actions or metaphorical movements.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Physical Actions: The act of shoving or pushing is often associated with physical altercations or movements. In the Bible, physical force is sometimes depicted in narratives involving conflict or defense. For example, in the account of Samson, his immense strength allowed him to push against the pillars of the Philistine temple, leading to its collapse (Judges 16:29-30). Although the term "shove" is not used, the action of pushing is central to the narrative.

2. Metaphorical Implications: Shoving can also be understood metaphorically in the Scriptures, representing the idea of moving someone away from a path of righteousness or pushing them into sin. Proverbs 4:14-15 advises, "Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it; do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way." Here, the metaphorical "shove" is the influence or pressure to follow a sinful path.

3. Spiritual Warfare: In the New Testament, the concept of spiritual warfare involves resisting the forces that attempt to "shove" believers away from their faith. Ephesians 6:11-12 encourages believers to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." The imagery of standing firm suggests resisting any spiritual shove that might lead one astray.

4. Community and Support: Conversely, the Bible also speaks to the positive aspect of guiding or gently pushing one another towards good deeds and spiritual growth. Hebrews 10:24 states, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds." This encouragement can be seen as a gentle shove towards righteousness and community support.

Theological Implications

The concept of shoving, whether physical or metaphorical, highlights the importance of direction and influence in a believer's life. The Bible emphasizes the need for discernment in choosing paths and associations that align with God's will. The act of shoving, in its negative form, serves as a warning against the pressures and temptations that can lead one away from faith. Conversely, positive encouragement and guidance are seen as essential for spiritual growth and community building.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

From a moral standpoint, the Bible advocates for actions that build up rather than tear down. The act of shoving, when used to harm or mislead, is contrary to the teachings of love and compassion found throughout Scripture. Believers are called to be mindful of their influence on others, ensuring that their actions lead to edification and not harm.

In summary, while the specific term "shoves" may not appear in the biblical text, the concept is woven throughout Scripture in various forms, emphasizing the importance of influence, direction, and the power of actions in the life of a believer.

The Two Debtors
... But Simon's righteousness was of the sort that gathers up its own robes about it,
and shoves back the poor sinner into the filth. 'She is a sinner,' says he. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture e/the two debtors.htm

Entering the Kingdom
... with. (3) The last paragraph of this passage teaches the reward of
self-renunciation. Peter shoves his oar in, after his fashion. It ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture e/entering the kingdom.htm

The Wide Range of God's Grace
... your creed of Jesus, the Christ, the Lord; and in the face of a strange and puerile
recrudescence of sacerdotalism and sacramentarianism, which shoves a priest ...
/.../expositions of holy scripture ephesians peter/the wide range of gods.htm

Shoves (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Shoves (2 Occurrences). Numbers 35:20 If he thrust him
of hatred, or hurled at him, lying in wait, so that he died, (See NIV). ...
/s/shoves.htm - 6k

Shovels (9 Occurrences)

/s/shovels.htm - 9k

Show (1340 Occurrences)

/s/show.htm - 12k

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