Topical Encyclopedia The term "withstandeth" is an archaic form of the verb "withstand," which means to resist or oppose. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to standing firm against adversaries, temptations, or false teachings. This concept is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, where believers are called to stand firm in their faith and resist evil.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the idea of withstanding is often associated with physical battles and spiritual resistance. For example, in 2 Chronicles 13:7-8, King Abijah of Judah speaks of how the men of Israel "withstood" the rightful king, demonstrating a physical and political opposition. The Hebrew word often translated as "withstand" in these contexts is "amad," which means to stand or take a stand. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of withstanding takes on a more spiritual dimension. Ephesians 6:13 states, "Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand." Here, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to put on the armor of God to withstand the spiritual forces of evil. The Greek word "anthistēmi" is used, meaning to set oneself against or resist. Spiritual Warfare The theme of withstanding is closely tied to the idea of spiritual warfare. Believers are encouraged to resist the devil and his schemes. James 4:7 instructs, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This resistance is not passive but requires active engagement in faith, prayer, and adherence to God's Word. Moral and Ethical Resistance Withstanding also involves moral and ethical resistance to the pressures of the world. Romans 12:2 advises, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This transformation enables believers to withstand societal pressures that contradict biblical teachings. Examples of Withstanding in Scripture 1. Daniel: Daniel and his friends withstood the pressures of Babylonian culture by refusing to eat the king's food and bow to idols (Daniel 1, 3). Their resistance was rooted in their commitment to God's commandments. 2. Jesus: In the wilderness, Jesus withstood the temptations of Satan by quoting Scripture and standing firm in His mission (Matthew 4:1-11). 3. Paul: The Apostle Paul often withstood false teachings and opposition throughout his ministry. In Galatians 2:11, he recounts how he withstood Peter to his face because he was clearly in the wrong. Practical Application For contemporary believers, withstanding involves a steadfast commitment to biblical truth and a reliance on the Holy Spirit for strength. It requires discernment to recognize false teachings and the courage to stand against them. The call to withstand is a call to be vigilant, prayerful, and grounded in the Word of God, ensuring that one's faith remains unshaken amidst trials and temptations. Library Verily I Say unto You, There Hath not Arisen among those whom ... "The Enemy is Overcome by the Blessed Passion and Death of Our ... Ephesians v. 22-24 That the Foundation and Strength of Hope and Faith is Fear. Thesaurus Withstandeth (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Withstandeth (2 Occurrences). Romans 9:19 Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he still find fault? For who withstandeth his will? ... /w/withstandeth.htm - 7k Withstanders (15 Occurrences) Withstanding (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Withstandeth (2 Occurrences)Romans 9:19 Romans 13:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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