Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "the feet of the wicked: swift to mischief" encapsulates a recurring biblical theme that highlights the eagerness and readiness of those who pursue evil to engage in wrongdoing. This concept is woven throughout Scripture, serving as a warning against the natural inclination of the sinful heart to pursue paths of destruction and immorality.Biblical References The imagery of feet being swift to do evil is vividly portrayed in several passages. Proverbs 6:16-18 lists things the Lord detests, including "feet that run swiftly to evil." This passage underscores the proactive nature of wickedness, where individuals are not merely passive in their sin but are actively seeking opportunities to commit it. Isaiah 59:7 further elaborates on this theme: "Their feet run to evil; they are swift to shed innocent blood. Their thoughts are sinful thoughts; ruin and destruction lie in their wake." Here, the prophet Isaiah describes the pervasive corruption and moral decay of those who are quick to engage in violence and injustice, emphasizing the destructive consequences of their actions. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 3:15-17, where he quotes from the Old Testament to describe the universal sinfulness of humanity: "Their feet are swift to shed blood; ruin and misery lie in their wake, and the way of peace they have not known." Paul uses this imagery to illustrate the inherent sinfulness of mankind and the need for redemption through Christ. Theological Implications The swiftness of the wicked to engage in mischief is a reflection of the fallen human nature. It highlights the contrast between the righteous and the wicked, as the righteous are called to walk in the ways of the Lord, characterized by peace, justice, and righteousness. The feet of the wicked, in contrast, are driven by selfish desires and a disregard for God's commandments. This theme also serves as a call to vigilance for believers. The readiness of the wicked to pursue evil acts as a reminder for Christians to guard their own hearts and to be mindful of the paths they choose. It underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance and strength to resist the temptations that lead to sin. Moral and Ethical Considerations From a moral and ethical standpoint, the concept of "feet swift to mischief" challenges individuals to examine their own lives and motivations. It calls for a rejection of the impulsive and destructive tendencies that lead to harm and encourages a commitment to living in accordance with God's will. The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of aligning oneself with those who are quick to do evil. Proverbs 1:15-16 advises, "My son, do not walk the road with them or set foot upon their path. For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood." This counsel serves as a practical guide for avoiding the influence of those who are intent on wrongdoing. Practical Application In practical terms, believers are encouraged to cultivate a lifestyle that reflects the character of Christ, whose feet were not swift to mischief but rather to serve, heal, and bring the good news of salvation. Ephesians 6:15 speaks of having "your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace," suggesting that Christians should be prepared to spread peace and righteousness rather than engage in or condone evil. By understanding the biblical portrayal of the feet of the wicked as swift to mischief, believers are better equipped to recognize the dangers of sin and to pursue a life that honors God, characterized by integrity, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 6:18An heart that devises wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... Treatise x. On Jealousy and Envy. Waiting Only Upon God Psalm CXL. The Resurrection of the Dead 2 Cor. Iii. 5 The Declensions of Christianity, an Argument of Its Truth. On Faith The Subject of Plagiarisms Resumed. The Greeks Plagiarized from ... Righteous Hatred Resources How tall was Goliath? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of a footstool in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How did Noah fit all the animals on the Ark? | GotQuestions.org Feet: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Feet: Washing of, As an Example, by Jesus The Feet of Criminals: Bound With Fetters The Feet of Criminals: Placed in Stocks The Feet of Enemies often Maimed and Cut off The Feet of Saints: At Liberty The Feet of Saints: Established by God The Feet of Saints: Guided by Christ The Feet of Saints: Kept by God The Feet of Strangers and Travellers Washed The Feet of the Jews: Bare in Affliction The Feet of the Jews: Neglected in Affliction The Feet of the Jews: Washed Frequently The Feet of the Wicked: Ensnared The Feet of the Wicked: Swift to Mischief The Feet of the Wicked: Swift to Shed Blood The Feet of Women often Adorned With Tingling Ornaments The Feet were Liable to Disease The Feet were Liable to Injury from Stones The Feet were Liable to Swelling from Walking The Feet: (Dipped in Blood) of Victory The Feet: (Set in a Large Place) Liberty The Feet: (Set on a Rock) Stability The Feet: (Sliding) Yielding to Temptation The Feet: (Treading Under) Complete Destruction The Feet: (Washed or Dipped in Oil) Abundance The Feet: Condemnation Expressed by Shaking the Dust From The Feet: Necessary Members of the Body The Feet: Neglect of Washing, Disrespectful to Guest The Feet: Origin of Uncovering in Consecrated Places The Feet: Parts of, Mentioned in Scripture: Heel The Feet: Parts of, Mentioned in Scripture: Sole The Feet: Parts of, Mentioned in Scripture: Toes The Feet: Path of, to be Pondered The Feet: Respect Exhibited by Falling At The Feet: Reverence Expressed by Kissing The Feet: Sleep Expressed by Covering The Feet: Stamped on the Ground in Extreme Joy or Grief The Feet: Subjection Expressed by Licking the Dust of The Feet: Subjugation of Enemies Expressed by Placing on Their Necks The Feet: To be Directed by God's Word The Feet: To be Guided by Wisdom and Discretion The Feet: To be Refrained from Evil The Feet: To be Turned to God's Testimonies The Feet: Washing for Others, a Menial office Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |