Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of being "repayed" or "repaid" in the Bible often relates to the principles of justice, recompense, and divine retribution. It is a theme that underscores the moral order established by God, where actions, whether good or evil, have corresponding consequences. This principle is evident throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
Old Testament ContextIn the Old Testament, the idea of repayment is frequently associated with God's justice. For instance, in
Deuteronomy 32:35, God declares, "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay." This verse emphasizes that God is the ultimate judge who will ensure that justice is served. The context here is God's assurance to His people that He will avenge wrongs done to them, highlighting His role as the righteous judge.
The Book of Proverbs also reflects this theme, particularly in
Proverbs 19:17, which states, "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender." This verse illustrates the principle that acts of kindness and charity are seen by God and will be rewarded by Him, reinforcing the idea that God repays good deeds with blessings.
New Testament ContextIn the New Testament, the concept of repayment is further developed, particularly in the teachings of Jesus. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about the rewards for righteous behavior.
Matthew 6:4, for example, says, "so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Here, the notion of repayment is linked to the sincerity of one's actions and the assurance of divine reward.
The Apostle Paul also addresses the theme of repayment in his epistles. In
Romans 12:19, he echoes the Old Testament sentiment by advising believers, "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'" Paul encourages Christians to trust in God's justice rather than seeking personal revenge, affirming that God will repay wrongs in His perfect timing.
Eschatological ImplicationsThe concept of being repaid is also significant in eschatological teachings, where final judgment and recompense are central themes. In
Revelation 22:12, Jesus declares, "Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me, to give to each one according to what he has done." This statement underscores the belief in a future time when all individuals will be repaid according to their deeds, whether good or evil, at the final judgment.
Practical ApplicationFor believers, the biblical teaching on repayment serves as both a warning and an encouragement. It warns against sin and injustice, reminding individuals that God sees all actions and will repay accordingly. Simultaneously, it encourages acts of kindness, generosity, and righteousness, assuring believers that such deeds are not in vain and will be rewarded by God.
In summary, the biblical concept of being repaid is deeply rooted in the character of God as just and righteous. It serves as a reminder of the moral order established by God, where every action has its due consequence, and it calls believers to live in a manner that reflects trust in God's ultimate justice and reward.
Concordance
Repayed (2 Occurrences)Proverbs 13:13
Whoso is despising the Word is destroyed for it, And whoso is fearing the Command isrepayed.
(YLT)
Proverbs 13:21
Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall berepayed.
(KJV)
Thesaurus
Repayed (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance
Repayed (2 Occurrences). Proverbs 13:13 Whoso is despising
the Word is destroyed for it, And whoso is fearing the Command is
repayed.
...Repayeth (16 Occurrences)
Despising (25 Occurrences)
... silence. (YLT). Proverbs 13:13 Whoso is despising the Word is destroyed
for it, And whoso is fearing the Command isrepayed. (YLT)....
Pursueth (28 Occurrences)
... (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). Proverbs 13:21 Evil pursueth sinners: but to the
righteous good shall berepayed. (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT)....
Repay (79 Occurrences)
Fearing (107 Occurrences)
... kindness. (YLT). Proverbs 13:13 Whoso is despising the Word is destroyed
for it, And whoso is fearing the Command isrepayed. (YLT)....
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