In the context of a Bible Encyclopedia or Topical Bible, "stubs" may not directly refer to a specific biblical term or concept. However, it can be understood metaphorically or symbolically in relation to biblical teachings and narratives. The term "stubs" could be associated with remnants, incomplete parts, or the idea of something that is unfinished or in need of growth and completion. This can be related to various biblical themes and passages.

Biblical Symbolism and Themes

1. Remnants and Incompletion: The concept of remnants is prevalent throughout the Bible, often referring to a small, surviving group of people who remain faithful to God amidst widespread apostasy or judgment. For example, in the account of Elijah, God assures him that He has preserved a remnant in Israel: "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him" (1 Kings 19:18). This idea of a faithful remnant can be seen as a "stub" of the larger community, preserved for God's purposes.

2. Growth and Maturity: The metaphor of growth from a small beginning is a recurring theme in Scripture. Jesus uses the parable of the mustard seed to illustrate the Kingdom of God: "It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade" (Mark 4:31-32). Here, the mustard seed starts as a "stub" but grows into something significant, symbolizing the potential for spiritual growth and the expansion of God's Kingdom.

3. Spiritual Incompletion and Sanctification: The Christian journey is often described as a process of sanctification, where believers are gradually transformed into the likeness of Christ. Paul writes to the Philippians, "Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6). This verse highlights the idea that believers may start as "stubs" in their spiritual journey, but God is faithful to bring them to maturity.

4. Pruning and Renewal: In John 15, Jesus speaks of Himself as the true vine and His followers as the branches. He emphasizes the necessity of pruning for growth: "Every branch in Me that bears no fruit, He takes away; and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes, that it may bear more fruit" (John 15:2). The pruning process may leave a branch as a "stub," but it is essential for future growth and fruitfulness.

Practical Application

In a practical sense, the concept of "stubs" can encourage believers to recognize areas in their lives that are incomplete or in need of growth. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing work of God in their lives, urging them to remain faithful and open to His transformative power. The metaphor of stubs can also inspire hope, as it points to the potential for growth and the fulfillment of God's promises.

Conclusion

While the term "stubs" is not explicitly found in the Bible, its symbolic implications resonate with various biblical themes of remnants, growth, and spiritual development. These themes encourage believers to trust in God's faithfulness to complete the work He has begun in them, transforming them into mature followers of Christ.2180. zanab -- tail, end, stump
... Definition: tail. Word Origin of uncertain derivation Definition tail, end, stump
NASB Word Usage stubs (1), tail (9), tails (1). tail. From ...
/hebrew/2180.htm - 6k

What the Big Chest Contained
... Even cigar stubs; in fact, everything in the form of tobacco, that had been thrown
away, they eagerly gathered and used to satisfy their ravenous appetites. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/byrum/how john became a man/chapter iii what the big.htm

Of Removing Tithes.
... Cro. El.347. Nor for roots, or stubs of trees, or underwood cut, for which tithes
were paid; if they be rooted up before new germins grow.1. Rol.637. l.35. ...
/.../prideaux/directions to church-wardens/8 of removing tithes.htm

Stubs (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Stubs (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 7:4 And say to him,
Take care and be quiet; have no fear, and do not let your ...
/s/stubs.htm - 6k

Stubbornness (14 Occurrences)

/s/stubbornness.htm - 11k

Stuck (7 Occurrences)

/s/stuck.htm - 8k

Horn (108 Occurrences)
... In Revelation 13:11, however, the two horns point only to the external imitation
of the harmless lamb, the "horns" being mere stubs. Burton Scott Easton. ...
/h/horn.htm - 49k

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