Topical Encyclopedia
In the Bible, the concept of acquaintances is addressed in various contexts, often highlighting the nature of human relationships and the importance of discernment in choosing companions. Acquaintances, as distinct from close friends or family, are individuals with whom one has a casual or less intimate relationship. The Scriptures provide guidance on how to navigate these relationships, emphasizing wisdom, integrity, and the influence of one's company.
Old Testament ReferencesThe Old Testament offers insights into the nature of acquaintances through narratives and wisdom literature. In the book of Job, Job laments the loss of his acquaintances during his time of suffering: "He has removed my brothers from me; my acquaintances have abandoned me" (
Job 19:13). This verse illustrates how acquaintances may distance themselves in times of adversity, contrasting with the loyalty expected from true friends.
The Psalms also reflect on the nature of acquaintances.
Psalm 31:11 states, "Because of all my enemies, I am a disgrace among my neighbors, and a dread to my friends; those who see me on the street flee from me" . This passage underscores the transient nature of some relationships and the potential for acquaintances to turn away in difficult circumstances.
New Testament InsightsIn the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles provide further guidance on relationships with acquaintances. Jesus Himself experienced the fickleness of acquaintances, as seen in the Gospel of Luke: "And all His acquaintances and the women who had followed Him from Galilee stood at a distance, watching these things" (
Luke 23:49). This verse highlights the distance that can exist even among those who are familiar with us.
The apostle Paul, in his letters, often emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with godly influences. In
1 Corinthians 15:33, he warns, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character'" . This admonition serves as a reminder to be cautious about the influence of acquaintances who may not share the same values or commitment to Christ.
Wisdom and DiscernmentThe Bible encourages believers to exercise wisdom and discernment in their relationships with acquaintances.
Proverbs 12:26 advises, "A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray" . This proverb highlights the need for careful consideration in forming relationships, recognizing that acquaintances can have a significant impact on one's spiritual and moral life.
Furthermore, the book of Proverbs frequently contrasts the outcomes of associating with the wise versus the foolish.
Proverbs 13:20 states, "He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed" . This wisdom literature underscores the importance of choosing acquaintances who will encourage growth in wisdom and righteousness.
Practical ApplicationIn practical terms, the Bible's teachings on acquaintances encourage believers to be intentional about their relationships. While acquaintances can provide opportunities for ministry and outreach, it is crucial to maintain a strong foundation in one's faith and values. Engaging with acquaintances should be balanced with the pursuit of deeper, more meaningful relationships that foster spiritual growth and accountability.
Overall, the biblical perspective on acquaintances serves as a guide for believers to navigate their social interactions with wisdom, ensuring that their relationships honor God and contribute positively to their spiritual journey.
Greek
1110. gnostos -- known... See 1097 (). Word Origin from ginosko Definition known NASB Word Usage
acquaintances (2), known (12), noteworthy (1). well known.
...Strong's Hebrew
3045. yada -- to know... root Definition to know NASB Word Usage ability (1), acknowledge (4), acknowledged
(2),
acquaintances (5), acquainted (1), aware (6), becomes known (1), bring
...4378. makkar -- acquaintance, friend
... acquaintance. Word Origin from nakar Definition acquaintance, friend NASB Word
Usage acquaintance (1),acquaintances (1). acquaintance....
Library
Note a the Following Extract of a Letter I Received from the Rev....
... as I did, very anxious for the fate of those who were exposed to the calamities
of war, many of whom, I was well aware, might be among my formeracquaintances....
He came to his Own.
... I do not mean to use it in the cheaper meaning. There is a certain kindliness
of speech in which allacquaintances are called friends....
Education.
... Kinsmen were on the watch for kinsmen andacquaintances foracquaintances; sometimes
it was mere good-humoured violence which secured the person of the freshman...
And on the Day Following He Went Forth Still More Eagerly Bent on...
... But those of hisacquaintances who came, since he did not permit them to enter,
often used to spend days and nights outside, and heard as it were crowds within...
Letter v. Society --Conversation.
... My Dear Daughter:"To give and receive pleasure in those pleasant assemblages and
meetings ofacquaintances and friends known by the general name of society...
Chapter eighteen
... "In your work with the club men, with your oldacquaintances, what sort of reception
do they give you? How do you approach them? What do they say?"....
Arrival
... An account of his reasons for taking this step shall be given later on. At this
time I must proceed to complete myacquaintances on board the Germania....
The Life of Mr. George Buchanan.
... likeliest to be free from tumults and combustions; and besides his companions in
that journey were such, that they seemed rather hisacquaintances and familiar...
First Latin Form.
... Then she called Joseph of the city of Arimath??a, and the other [2640] disciples
of the Lord; and when they, both relations andacquaintances, were assembled...
Education and Preparation.
... wrote: "Had I remained and become a member of the university at that time, as I
should have done in case of success, the profligateacquaintances I had there...
Thesaurus
Acquaintances (9 Occurrences)...Acquaintances (9 Occurrences).
... Luke 23:49 All his
acquaintances, and the women who
followed with him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
...Acquaintance (16 Occurrences)
... Luke 2:44 but supposing him to be in the company, they went a day's journey, and
they looked for him among their relatives andacquaintances....
Acquainted (21 Occurrences)
Kindred (41 Occurrences)
... Luke 2:44 and, having supposed him to be in the company, they went a day's journey,
and were seeking him among the kindred and among theacquaintances, (YLT)....
Kesitah (3 Occurrences)
... Job 42:11 And come unto him do all his brethren, and all his sisters, and all his
formeracquaintances, and they eat bread with him in his house, and bemoan him...
Neighbors (40 Occurrences)
... (WEB ASV WBS NAS RSV NIV). Psalms 31:11 Because of all my adversaries I have become
utterly contemptible to my neighbors, A fear to myacquaintances....
Journeyed (111 Occurrences)
... 2:44 but, supposing him to be in the company that journeyed together, they went
a day's journey, and sought him among their relations andacquaintances: (DBY)....
Watching (111 Occurrences)
... Luke 23:49 All hisacquaintances, and the women who followed with him from Galilee,
stood at a distance, watching these things. (WEB BBE NIV)....
Followers (37 Occurrences)
... Luke 23:49 But all Hisacquaintances, and the women who had been His followers after
leaving Galilee, continued standing at a distance and looking on. (WEY)....
Travelling (17 Occurrences)
... they proceeded a day's journey. Then they searched up and down for Him among
their relatives andacquaintances; (WEY). Acts 9:7 But...
Resources
What is the significance of Jesus eating with sinners? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about friends? | GotQuestions.orgHow does my personal, private sin affect others? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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