Topical Encyclopedia The term "terrestrial" is derived from the Latin word "terra," meaning "earth." In a biblical context, it refers to things pertaining to the earth or earthly existence, as opposed to the celestial or heavenly realm. The concept of terrestrial is often contrasted with the spiritual or heavenly, highlighting the distinction between the physical world and the divine.Biblical References: 1. 1 Corinthians 15:40 : "There are also heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the splendor of the heavenly bodies is of one degree, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is of another." This verse from the Apostle Paul's first letter to the Corinthians draws a distinction between the heavenly and earthly (terrestrial) bodies. Paul uses this analogy to explain the resurrection of the dead, emphasizing that just as there are different kinds of bodies, there will be a transformation from the earthly to the heavenly in the resurrection. 2. Genesis 1:10 : "God called the dry land 'earth,' and the gathering of waters He called 'seas.' And God saw that it was good." In the creation narrative, the earth is established as the terrestrial realm, a distinct part of God's creation. The earth is where humanity is placed to live and exercise dominion, as seen in Genesis 1:28. 3. Ecclesiastes 3:20 : "All go to one place: All come from dust, and all return to dust." This verse reflects on the terrestrial nature of human life, emphasizing the temporary and earthly aspect of human existence. It serves as a reminder of the mortality and physicality of life on earth. Theological Implications: The concept of the terrestrial is significant in understanding the biblical worldview of creation, humanity, and the ultimate destiny of believers. The earth is seen as a temporary dwelling place, where humans live out their lives in anticipation of a future transformation. The terrestrial realm is marked by physicality, mortality, and the limitations of human existence. In Christian theology, the terrestrial is often viewed in light of the fall of man, which introduced sin and death into the world (Genesis 3). This earthly existence is characterized by toil, suffering, and the need for redemption. However, the promise of salvation through Jesus Christ offers hope for a future beyond the terrestrial, where believers will experience eternal life in the presence of God. Contrast with the Celestial: The terrestrial is frequently contrasted with the celestial, or heavenly, in Scripture. While the terrestrial is associated with the physical and temporal, the celestial is linked to the spiritual and eternal. This dichotomy is evident in passages like 2 Corinthians 5:1 : "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is dismantled, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." Here, the Apostle Paul contrasts the temporary, earthly body with the eternal, heavenly dwelling promised to believers. Practical Application: Understanding the concept of the terrestrial encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective. While life on earth is important and filled with purpose, it is not the ultimate destination. Christians are called to steward the earth responsibly, recognizing it as God's creation, while also setting their hearts on things above (Colossians 3:2). This dual focus allows believers to navigate the challenges of earthly life with hope and assurance of the heavenly promises to come. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Of or pertaining to the earth; existing on the earth; earthly; as, terrestrial animals.2. (a.) Representing, or consisting of, the earth; as, a terrestrial globe. 3. (a.) of or pertaining to the world, or to the present state; sublunary; mundane. 4. (a.) Consisting of land, in distinction from water; belonging to, or inhabiting, the land or ground, in distinction from trees, water, or the like; as, terrestrial serpents. 5. (a.) Adapted for the observation of objects on land and on the earth; as, a terrestrial telescope, in distinction from an astronomical telescope. 6. (n.) An inhabitant of the earth. Greek 1919. epigeios -- of the earth ... earthly, in earth, terrestrial. From epi and ge; worldly (physically or morally) -- earthly, in earth, terrestrial. see GREEK epi. see GREEK ge. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1919.htm - 7k Library That the Knowledge of Terrestrial and Celestial Things Does not ... The Creation of Terrestrial Animals. Against those who Affirm that Earthly Bodies Cannot be Made ... The Creation of Fowl and Water Animals. Definitions, Genera, and Species. Man Now Deprived of Freedom of Will, and Miserably Enslaved. Of the Catholic Church, the Remission of Sins, and the ... 1 Cor. xv. 35, 36 How Far Christians Ought to be from Boasting, if they have done ... Satan Considering the Saints Thesaurus Terrestrial (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (a.) Of or pertaining to the earth; existing on the earth; earthly; as, terrestrial animals. 2. (a.) Representing ... /t/terrestrial.htm - 7k Celestial (3 Occurrences) Earthly (39 Occurrences) Differs (3 Occurrences) Splendor (87 Occurrences) Bodies (144 Occurrences) Kind (290 Occurrences) Gravity (3 Occurrences) Terrain (1 Occurrence) Earthy (3 Occurrences) Resources What is Mormonism? What do Mormons believe? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the firmament in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Terrestrial: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Terrestrial (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 15:40 Subtopics Related Terms Lovingkindness (176 Occurrences) Ka'desh-bar'nea (9 Occurrences) |