Topical Bible: The Cedar: Saints in Their Rapid Growth

◄ The Cedar: Saints in Their Rapid Growth ►

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The cedar tree, renowned for its majestic stature and enduring strength, serves as a powerful biblical symbol of spiritual growth and maturity among the saints. Throughout Scripture, the cedar is frequently mentioned, illustrating the characteristics that believers are encouraged to emulate in their spiritual journey.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The cedar is prominently featured in the Bible, often associated with strength, durability, and beauty. In the construction of the Temple, Solomon used cedar wood extensively, signifying its importance and value (1 Kings 6:9-10). The cedar's towering presence and deep roots make it an apt metaphor for the spiritual growth and stability that believers are called to pursue.

Psalm 92:12-13 states, "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God." This passage highlights the rapid and robust growth of the righteous, akin to the cedar's development. The cedar's growth is not only upward but also deeply rooted, symbolizing a faith that is both expansive and firmly grounded in God's truth.

Characteristics of the Cedar and Spiritual Growth

1. Strength and Stability: Cedars are known for their strength and resistance to decay, representing the enduring faith of the saints. Believers are called to be steadfast, unwavering in their commitment to God, much like the cedar's resilience against the elements. Ephesians 4:14-15 encourages believers to "no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching," but to grow in maturity and stability.

2. Height and Majesty: The cedar's impressive height symbolizes the lofty aspirations of the saints to grow closer to God. As believers mature, they are called to rise above worldly concerns and seek the things of God, reflecting His glory in their lives. Colossians 3:1-2 exhorts believers to "set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God."

3. Deep Roots: The cedar's deep root system ensures its stability and access to nourishment. Similarly, saints are encouraged to be deeply rooted in the Word of God, drawing sustenance and strength from Scripture. Colossians 2:6-7 advises, "Therefore, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him, established in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."

4. Fragrance and Beauty: Cedars are also known for their pleasant aroma and aesthetic appeal, symbolizing the beauty of a life transformed by Christ. As believers grow in holiness, their lives emit the fragrance of Christ, attracting others to the faith. 2 Corinthians 2:15 describes believers as "the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."

Application for Believers

The imagery of the cedar provides a compelling vision for the spiritual growth of the saints. Just as the cedar grows rapidly and robustly, believers are called to pursue spiritual maturity with vigor and dedication. This growth is characterized by a deepening relationship with God, a steadfast faith, and a life that reflects the beauty and fragrance of Christ.

In the journey of faith, the cedar serves as a reminder of the potential for rapid and profound growth in the life of a believer. By remaining rooted in Scripture, committed to prayer, and engaged in the community of faith, saints can experience the transformative power of God, growing into the fullness of Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 92:12
The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Infallibility of God's Purpose
... the soil upon which even the goodly cedar itself might ... Rome, have crumbled, each
and all, when their hour had ... just and true are thy ways, thou King of Saints! ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/the infallibility of gods purpose.htm

Centenary Commemoration
... as the Faith once and forever given to the saints. ... to adopt such measures in conjunction
with their brethren of ... o'clock from his house, No.4 Cedar street, New ...
/.../centenary commemoration 2.htm

part ii
... Our soul is simple as thought, and rapid as thought or lightning ... are subjected to
maladies and corruption; whilst the saints, who despised their flesh, and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm