Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Context:The term "pursuest" is an archaic form of the verb "pursue," commonly found in older English translations of the Bible. It denotes the act of following or chasing after something with intent and determination. In the biblical context, "pursuest" often refers to the pursuit of righteousness, peace, or enemies, depending on the narrative or teaching.
Biblical Usage:The concept of pursuit is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, illustrating both physical and spiritual endeavors. The act of pursuing is often associated with diligence, commitment, and a focused effort to achieve a particular goal or fulfill a divine command.
1.
Pursuit of Righteousness and Peace: Believers are encouraged to pursue righteousness and peace as part of their spiritual journey. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul exhorts the faithful to "pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace" (
2 Timothy 2:22). This pursuit is not passive but requires active engagement and a heart aligned with God's will.
2.
Pursuit of Enemies: In the Old Testament, the term is frequently used in the context of warfare and conflict. For example, King David often speaks of pursuing his enemies with God's guidance and strength. In
1 Samuel 30:8 , David inquires of the Lord, "Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?" The Lord responds affirmatively, indicating divine support in his pursuit.
3.
Divine Pursuit: The Bible also portrays God as one who pursues His people, seeking to bring them back into a covenant relationship with Him. This divine pursuit is an expression of God's love and mercy, as seen in the parables of Jesus, such as the Parable of the Lost Sheep (
Luke 15:4-7), where the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to pursue the one lost sheep.
Theological Implications:The act of pursuing, as depicted in the Bible, carries significant theological implications. It underscores the importance of intentionality in the believer's life, whether in seeking God, living out His commandments, or engaging in spiritual warfare. The pursuit of God and His righteousness is a recurring theme that highlights the believer's responsibility to actively seek a deeper relationship with the Creator.
Practical Application:For contemporary believers, the concept of "pursuest" serves as a reminder of the need for perseverance and dedication in their spiritual walk. It calls for a proactive approach to faith, encouraging individuals to pursue godly virtues and to remain steadfast in the face of challenges. The pursuit of God and His purposes is a lifelong journey that requires commitment and reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength.
Library
2 Cor. viii. 7
... lose aught by his poverty. [3.] Why then tremblest thou at poverty? and
whypursuest thou after wealth? I fear,' saith one, lest...
1 Timothy ii. 10-Aug
... What is becoming to thee thou seekest not; that which misbecomes thee thou
pursuest, when thou oughtest to be occupied in good works....
Matt. xxii. 34-36.
... These then, as much as thoupursuest them, so much do they turn away from thee;
but God, if thou seek the glory that cometh from Him, so much the more both...
John iv. 13, 14
... the sacred Books? If thoupursuest those worldly things for pleasure, I will
show thee that here is greater pleasure. Which is sweeter...
2 Cor. xiii. 1
... contemptible. Do thou, therefore, if thou desirest to receive glory, repel
glory; but if thoupursuest glory, thou shalt miss glory....
Greek Plagiarism from the Hebrews.
... He says accordingly:". "Why, son of Peleus, mortal as thou art,. With swift feet
mepursuest, a god. Immortal? Hast thou not yet known. That I am a god?" [3142]...
Thesaurus
Pursuest (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance
Pursuest (2 Occurrences). Job 30:21 Thou art changed to
a cruel one to me; with the strength of thy hand thou
pursuest me. (DBY).
...Pursues (15 Occurrences)
Pursueth (28 Occurrences)
Destroyest (10 Occurrences)
... mountain. (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). Lamentations 3:66 Thoupursuest in anger, and
destroyest them, From under the heavens of Jehovah! (YLT)....
Changed (177 Occurrences)
... my coat. (KJV WBS YLT). Job 30:21 Thou art changed to a cruel one to me;
with the strength of thy hand thoupursuest me. (DBY). Job...
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