The term "trucebreaker" is found in the New Testament, specifically in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In the Berean Standard Bible, the word is translated from the Greek term "aspondos," which conveys the idea of being irreconcilable or refusing to make peace. This term is notably used in 2 Timothy 3:3, where Paul describes the characteristics of people in the last days: "unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good."

Biblical Context

In 2 Timothy 3, Paul warns Timothy about the moral and spiritual decline that will characterize the last days. The list of negative traits includes "trucebreakers," highlighting a societal breakdown in trust and the inability or unwillingness to maintain agreements or covenants. This reflects a broader theme in Scripture where faithfulness and the keeping of one's word are highly valued (Proverbs 12:22; Matthew 5:37).

Theological Significance

The concept of being a "trucebreaker" is antithetical to the Christian call to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) and to live in harmony with others as much as possible (Romans 12:18). The refusal to reconcile or to honor agreements is seen as a manifestation of a hardened heart, contrary to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. The presence of trucebreakers in the last days serves as a warning of the increasing lawlessness and moral decay that will precede Christ's return.

Moral and Ethical Implications

From a moral and ethical standpoint, being a trucebreaker is a serious offense in the biblical worldview. It undermines the fabric of community and trust that is essential for healthy relationships. The Bible consistently calls believers to be people of integrity, whose "yes" is "yes" and "no" is "no" (James 5:12). The failure to keep one's word or to seek reconciliation is seen as a breach of the command to love one's neighbor (Mark 12:31).

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient world, covenants and agreements were foundational to social and political life. Breaking a truce or covenant was not only a personal failure but could have significant communal repercussions. In the context of the early church, maintaining unity and peace was crucial for the witness of the gospel. Thus, the presence of trucebreakers would have been particularly concerning for early Christians striving to live out their faith in a hostile environment.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, the warning against being a trucebreaker serves as a call to examine one's own life for areas where reconciliation is needed. It challenges Christians to be proactive in seeking peace and to be faithful in their commitments, reflecting the character of God, who is always faithful to His promises (Deuteronomy 7:9). The church is called to be a community where forgiveness and reconciliation are practiced, standing in contrast to a world often marked by broken promises and unresolved conflicts.TRUCEBKEAKER

troos'-brak-er: The King James Version rendering in 2 Timothy 3:3 of aspondos, literally, "without a libation." As a libation always accompanied the making of a treaty in Greek lands, the lack implied that no treaty had been made, or, by a natural extension of meaning, could be made. Hence, the word came to mean "implacable" (Revised Version).

Trucebkeaker
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TRUCEBKEAKER. troos'-brak-er: The King James
Version rendering in 2 Timothy 3:3 of aspondos, literally ...
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Trow (1 Occurrence)

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Trucebreakers (1 Occurrence)

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