Language: English

Book: 1 John

Introduction to 1 John

Overview

John’s first letter is very short. However, John wrote many things about God and mankind. John wrote this letter because some people in the church had spoken against what Christians should believe about God. John thought he had to explain again some of the things that Christians should believe. John did not want anyone to argue against these things.

Even so, John always wrote so that the readers knew that he loved them. Many scholars have noticed that John was both gentle and bold when he wrote. It would be well for everyone to write or speak in this way when talking about God and mankind.

Also, John wrote much about why Christians should love God. If someone loves God, he shows it by obeying God’s commands. If someone is a friend of God, then they want to obey God. John taught that if a Christian is not at peace with another Christian, then he is not at peace with God either.

Who wrote this letter?

In his letter, the author did not say who he was. However, most Christians have always said that it was the Apostle John who wrote the letter. This is because many things in the letter are like things in John’s gospel.

Did the same person write both 1 John and the Gospel of John?

Both the gospel of John and 1 John have many words that are the same, and they both say many of the same things. Scholars think that whoever wrote these two books wanted to say many of the same things (see: John 20:31 and 1 John 5:13). However, it is difficult to know whether the same person actually wrote both books. This is because 1 John does not help people to know very much about the person who wrote it.

Who did John write to?

John wrote his letter because there was trouble in some churches. However, scholars do not know exactly what that trouble was. They also did not know where these churches were. They do know that some people were teaching wrong things. John did not explain everything that these people believed. However, here is what some scholars think: these people believed many different things, but they usually thought that a person had to learn very special or secret things in order to please God. They said that people could become more like God if they learned these secrets. They also thought that God would favor them if they refused many things that most people enjoy, such as getting married, eating fine foods, and other things. Because they thought this, they wanted to stay away from these things. They also said that this world was evil, that is, nothing in this world could be good. They did not think that God would ever agree to come to this world, so they said that Jesus had not really been a human being. They did believe that Jesus was God, but not that Jesus was also a human being.

There are, however, other scholars who say that perhaps these teachers believed that everything in the physical world is evil. Therefore, they did not believe that Jesus was truly a human being.

John also wrote this letter to Christians in general. He did not write it to any particular person or church. He probably also thought that all Christians would read this letter. Jewish Christians would read his letter. Gentile Christians would also read this letter. This is because John did not copy any passages from the Old Testament. Gentile Christians did not know very much about the Old Testament.

Some scholars think that John may have written it to Christians who never saw Jesus while he was on earth. This is because John said very strongly that he personally saw Jesus and the things Jesus did.

John also repeated the words “from the beginning.” Perhaps many years had passed since Jesus rose from the dead (see: 1John 1:1, 2:4, and 2:24).

John wrote to Christians who had not believed in Jesus for very long and who had much to learn. This is why he called his readers "little children." This shows that the audience did not know very much about how to follow Jesus.

John may have known these Christians by name. This is because he often wrote about loving his readers. John’s letter also shows that he loved these Christians and cared for them very much.

See :Heresy; Gnosticism; Resurrect (Resurrection)

What did John write about in this letter?

About remaining in Jesus

John wrote the Greek word “remain” or “abide” (μένω/#g3306) many times in this letter. He wrote this when he wanted to talk about people staying somewhere. He also uses it to say that something remains in a certain place. Perhaps he talks more about “remaining” in Jesus than anything else.

In this letter, John wrote “remain” when he wanted to say that Jesus' words remain in Christians. With “remain,” John also said that Christians remain united to Jesus and to God. The Father remains in the Son, and the Son remains in the Father. The Father and the Holy Spirit also remain in Christians.

When using “remain” to say that Christians remain united to Jesus, it is possible that John was speaking about a Christian's ability to live together with God forever. It is also possible that John was speaking about one result of a Christian being saved from the penalty of sin. Regardless, if a believer does not remain in Jesus, he will not be able to live forever with him.

John also wrote that Christians are waiting for God to help them. To do this, John used the word uses “remain.”

See: Eternal Security

Advice to translators: For “remaining” and “remain,” translators should represent these ideas in the same way that they did when they translated the letter of 1 John.

About living in the Christian way

John often wrote about why Christians should honor God in their lives. He said that if Christians do this, they will have peace with God. John wrote that Christians must honor God and do things that please him. However, John knew that Christians cannot avoid sinning. In fact, if someone says that he does not sin, then he sins very badly by thinking in a wrong way. God knows that Christians will sin, but he still made a way to forgive them. He did this by causing Jesus to die for Christians.

God also made a way for Christians to come back to him after they sin. They do this by confessing their sin.

More than anything else, John wanted Christians to “do the will of God,” that is, they must do what God wants them to do in their lives. They must honor and obey God.

See: Fellowship;Confess (Confession);Will of God

About Christians who are very faithful to Jesus

A Christian is a person who believes in Jesus. However, some scholars believe that not all Christians are very faithful to Jesus. All Christians believe in Jesus, but only some Christians are very faithful to Jesus. That is, only some Christians obey him very well. If someone believes in Jesus, Jesus immediately saves that person. God will not punish him for having sinned. Christians who are very faithful to God obey him every day. However, all Christians should be very faithful to Jesus.

However, some scholars believe that Christians need to be completely faithful to God. If they are not, then they will not live together with God forever. Other scholars believe that God helps Christians to always obey him. Because of this, Christians must do their best to obey him.

Advice to translators: Faithful can be hard to signal in many languages. You might have to search hard for a way to do it.

About people who belong to God

John often wrote about people who belonged to God. He also wrote about people and things that belong to the world and the devil. Here, when John wrote “the world,” he was thinking about everything in this world that is against God, everything that tries to stop God. John wrote that Christians could choose to follow the things that oppose God. If they do this, they sin. However, Christians can instead choose to do the things God wants them to do. When they do this, they show that they belong to God, that they are doing his will.

See: World

About the people who live together with God forever

John wrote much about people who live with God forever. He wanted to say that people can start living “with” God now in this world, that is, they can serve God. They will continue to live with him forever. This is what John was thinking about when he wrote about eternal life.

God promised that believers in Jesus that they will live with him forever. Because he has promised this, believers can begin to live with God now, even in this world.

See: 1 John 1:2 and 5:20

See: Eternal Life

Why did John write this letter?

John wrote this letter to help a church that had false teachers, teachers who taught wrong things about God. Some of these false teachers said that Jesus had not truly been a human being (see: 1 John 4:2). Perhaps these teachers also refused to admit that they had sinned (see: 1 John 1:6-10 and 1 John 2:4). Also, perhaps John wanted to correct people who did not live in a way that honors God.

Scholars think that John wrote this letter for the same reason that he wrote his gospel (see: John 20:31). He wanted to encourage people to believe in Jesus, so they could have eternal life (see: 1 John 5:13).

See: Eternal Life

Outline of 1 John

Introduction (1:1-4)
Christian living (1:5-3:10)
The command to love one another (3:11-5:12)
Conclusion (5:13-21)

1 John

Chapter 1

¹ That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched, concerning the Word of life— ² the life was made known, and we have seen and testify and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father, and which has been made known to us. ³ That which we have seen and heard we declare also to you, so you also will have fellowship with us. Our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. ⁴ Also, we are writing these things to you so that our joy will be complete. ^[1]

⁵ This is the message that we have heard from him and are proclaiming to you: God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all. ⁶ If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in darkness, we are lying and are not practicing the truth. ⁷ But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from every sin. ⁸ If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. ⁹ But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. ¹⁰ If we say that we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar, and his word is not in us.

Footnotes

1:4 ^[1]Some important ancient Greek copies read,

1 John 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is a letter that John wrote to Christians.

Special concepts in this chapter

Christians and sin

In this chapter John teaches that all Christians are still sinners. But God continues to forgive a Christian's sins. (See: sin and faith and forgive)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphors

In this chapter John writes that God is light. Light is a metaphor for understanding and righteousness. (See: and righteous)

John also writes about people walking in the light or in the darkness. Walking is a metaphor for behaving or living. People who walk in the light understand what is righteous and do it. People who walk in the darkness may not understand what is righteous, and they do what is sinful.

1 John 1 Commentary

1:1-4

John wrote about “the beginning.” When was this?

[1:1]

John wrote about “the beginning” in verse one. Some scholars think that this was the time when God created the world. They think this because the gospel of John and the book of Genesis began in a similar way (see: John 1:1, and Genesis 1:1).

Other scholars think that John was talking about the time when Jesus began to preach and teach. John wrote “the beginning” many times in this letter. These scholars think that John was always thinking of the time when Jesus began to teach (see: 1 John 2:7).

See: Preach (Preacher);Preach (Preacher)

Why did John say that he and the other apostles saw Jesus, heard Jesus speak, and touched Jesus?

[1:1]

John said that he and the other apostles saw Jesus, heard Jesus speak, and touched Jesus. John did this for several reasons. First, he did this to show that Jesus was a true human being. John did not want people to think that Jesus was only God pretending to be human. Second, John showed people that he saw Jesus. John knew Jesus because he had been with Jesus when Jesus was preaching and teaching.

Many scholars think that John wrote verse one in order to correct some false teachers. Those false teachers believed that Jesus was not truly a human being. Perhaps this is also why John said that he had seen, heard, and touched him.

In 1:1, who or what is the “word”?

[1:1]

Some scholars think that John was speaking about Jesus when he said “word or message (λόγος/g3056).” This was because John said that he and the other apostles saw, heard, and touched Jesus. In Scripture, only Jesus is called the “word.” If Jesus is the “word,” then he is also the “word of life ” (see: 1 John 5:20). That is, Jesus is the one who brings eternal life to anyone who believes in him.

Fewer scholars think that the “word” is the gospel. If this is true, then it referred to the message Jesus shared (see: Philippians 2:16). They think that in some way, Jesus is the gospel. He is the good news.

See: Gospel; Gospel

Advice to translators: Follow the wording used in your translation for “word” and “word of life.” Also, “word” and “message” are used in the same way here.

In 1:1, what type of life does John talk about?

[1:1]

In verse 1, John wrote about “life (ζωή/g2222).” Some scholars think that when John wrote that someone has life, he wanted to say that that person will live with God forever. Jesus gives this type of life to those who believe in him. Other scholars think John wanted to say that Jesus helps Christians to live in a new way in this world. This is because Christians have become God’s friends. Or perhaps “life” means both things at the same time.

See: Born Again (New Life, Regeneration);Eternal Life; Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins);Born Again (New Life, Regeneration)

How is “fellowship” used in this passage?

[1:3]

When two people have “fellowship,” they are at peace with each other, and they are friends. When John wrote about fellowship, he wanted to say that Christians are at peace with God and with each other.

In this passage, John wanted to say two different things. First, he wanted to say that Christians are friends with each other. The second thing John wanted to say is that Christians are friends with God, because they are at peace with him. When a Christian is at peace with God, they want to be at peace with other people.

See: Fellowship

Christian are friends with whom?

[1:3]

In this passage, Christians have “fellowship” with other Christians, that is, they are friends with other Christians. They are also friends with God. A Christian is a friend of God when he trusts in God, prays to God, and honors him. Also, Christians are to be friends with other Christians. They are at peace with each other, help each other, and worship God together.

See: Fellowship

1:5-10

Why did John speak of God as if he were light?

[1:5]

In this passage, John spoke about God as if he were light. This is because light represents someone who always does right and who never sins.

However, scholars think different things about the darkness. Some think that when John wrote about darkness, he was thinking about evil. If this is true, then the people in the darkness are the Christians who live in this evil world. However, other scholars think that John wanted to say that God has not yet shown certain people that they are sinners. In other words, these certain people are in darkness because they do not understand the truth about themselves and about God.

See: Light and Darkness (Metaphor)

Why does John make so many statements beginning with “if”?

[1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10]

John made five statements in this passage that began with “if (ἐάν/g1437).” Each statement said something that might be true. Each statement then said what would happen if that thing were true.

The first statement (1:6) explained that a Christian’s sin kept him from being a friend to God. But in this case, it was not permanent.

The second statement (1:7) was about a person who honored God. Such people were at peace with one another. They knew that God was no longer angry because they had sinned (see: Heb. 9:14 and 10:22).

The third statement (1:8) has caused scholars to disagree with each other. Some scholars think that verse 8 is about people who believe they do not sin very often. These people are not Christians. However, other scholars believe that verse 8 is about those who say they never sin. These people are lying to themselves and to other people.

The fourth statement (1:8) was about how Christians are friends with God. They become friends with him by admitting that they sin and then by repenting of their sins. If they do this, then their sins cannot separate them from God. They know that God is no longer angry with them for having sinned.

Advice to translators: People translate 1:7 in very different ways. Feel free to adapt the content to follow your local translation and clarify it.

Does God only forgive Christians when they lead a life that honors him?

[1:7]

God does not forgive someone because the person does things that please him. However, some translations may appear to say the opposite in 1:7.

The first part of this verse speaks of how Christians must honor God and do what pleases him. In the second part of the verse, John said that Jesus makes people clean or forgives sin. This, of course, is how people become Christians.

Scholars disagree about how these two ideas are connected to each other. Some think that a person must live in the “light,” that is, that he must honor God with his words and actions for God to save him. For these scholars, if someone fails to do this, God will not save him. However, other scholars think John is teaching Christians to live in a way that honors him.

See: Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins)

Why did John write 1:8?

[1:8]

Many scholars think John wrote this verse because false teachers claimed that they were able to not sin for a long time. However, because John uses “we” when he says, “If we say we have no sin,” John includes himself among sinners. Because of this, other scholars do not think John was arguing against false teachers. Instead, they think that some Christians did not understand what it meant that God saved them.

Can Christians avoid sinning?

[1:8]

John clearly says in 1:8 that Christians sin. It is a sin for someone to say that they do not sin.

However, scholars disagree about how someone “has sin.” Some think John meant that Christians sin from time to time, but they cannot constantly sin. If this is true, then Christians can stop sinning for a period of time. However, other scholars think John meant that all Christians sin, even if they do not know what sins they are committing.

Must a person confess his sins for God to save him?

[1:9]

It is not necessary for a person to “confess” or admit his sins to God in order for God to save him. Instead, God saves someone when he believes in Jesus, not when he admits his sin to God.

Why should a Christian confess his sins to God?

[1:9]

John said that it is important for a Christian to “confess (ὁμολογέω/#g3670),” that is, admit their sins to God. For a Christian to continue to be friends with God, he must be a friend of God in the right way. When a Christian sins, he is in danger of ceasing to be friends with God. He becomes a true friend of God again by admitting his sin to God.

When John said that God will “cleanse Christians” or “make Christians clean” from sin, he is using a metaphor. He is speaking of sin as if it were dirtiness. Christians continue to commit sin, which is like getting dirty again and again. However, each time they sin, they must admit their sin to God. Then, God continues to forgive or “cleanse” them.

See: Justify (Justification); Justify (Justification)

1 John 1:1

General Information:

The apostle John wrote this letter to believers. All instances of "you," "your," and "yours" include all believers and are plural. Here the words "we" and "us" refer to John and those who had been with Jesus. In verses 1-2 many pronouns like "that," "which," and "it" are used. They refer to "the Word of life" and "the eternal life." But, since these are names for Jesus, you can use pronouns that refer to a person like "who," "whom" or "he."

which we have heard

"which we have heard him teach"

which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at

This is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: "which we ourselves have seen"

the Word of life

This refers to Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: "the one who gives life" or "the one who causes people to live forever"

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. Here "life" refers to being alive spiritually.

1 John 1:2

the life was made known

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God made the eternal life known to us" or "God made us able to know him, who is eternal life"

we have seen and testify

"we have seen it and testify about it" or "we have seen him and testify about him"

the eternal life, which was with the Father, and which has been made known to us

Here, "the eternal life" refers to the one who gives that life, Jesus. Alternate translation: "the one who enables us to live forever, who was with God the Father, and who has been made known to us"

and which has been made known to us

This was when he lived on earth. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "and which the Father has made known to us" or "and who came to live among us"

1 John 1:3

General Information:

Here the words "we," "us," and "our" refer to John and those who had been with Jesus.

That which we have seen and heard we declare also to you

"We say to you also what we have seen and heard"

have fellowship with us. Our fellowship is with the Father

"be our close friends. We are friends with God the Father"

Our fellowship

It is not clear if John is including or excluding his readers. You may translate this either way.

Father ... Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

1 John 1:4

so that our joy will be complete

"to make our joy complete" or "to make ourselves completely happy"

1 John 1:5

General Information:

Here the words "we" and "us" refer to all believers, including the people to whom John was writing. Unless otherwise stated, that is the meaning for the remainder of this book.

Connecting Statement:

From here into the next chapter, John writes about fellowship—close relationships with God and other believers.

God is light

This is a metaphor that means that God is perfectly pure and holy. Cultures that associate goodness with light may be able to keep the idea of light without explaining the metaphor. Alternate translation: "God is purely righteous like pure light"

in him there is no darkness at all

This is a metaphor that means that God never sins and is not evil in any way. Cultures that associate evil with darkness may be able to keep the idea of darkness without explaining the metaphor. Alternate translation: "in him there is nothing that is evil"

1 John 1:6

walk in darkness

Here "walk" is a metaphor for how a person lives or behaves. Here "darkness" is a metaphor for "evil." Alternate translation: "do what is evil"

1 John 1:7

walk in the light as he is in the light

Here "walk" is a metaphor for how a person lives or behaves. Here "light" is a metaphor for "good" or "right." Alternate translation: "do what is good as God is perfectly good" or "do what is right as God is perfectly right"

the blood of Jesus

This refers to the death of Jesus.

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

1 John 1:8

have no sin

"never sin"

are deceiving

"are tricking" or "lying to"

the truth is not in us

The truth is spoken of as if it were an object that could be inside believers. Alternate translation: "we do not believe what God says is true"

1 John 1:9

he is faithful

"God is faithful"

to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. John uses them to emphasize that God will surely forgive our sins. Alternate translation: "and will completely forgive us for what we have done wrong"

1 John 1:10

we make him out to be a liar

It is implied that a person who claims to be without sin would be calling God a liar since he said that everyone is a sinner. Alternate translation: "it is the same as calling God a liar, because he said we have all sinned"

his word is not in us

"Word" here is a metonym for "message." Obeying and honoring God's word is spoken of as if his word were inside the believers. Alternate translation: "we do not understand God's word and do not obey what he says"

ULB Translation Questions

1 John 1:1

What does John say was from the beginning?

John says the Word of life was from the beginning.

By what means did John know about the Word of life?

John had heard, seen, contemplated, and handled the Word of life.

1 John 1:2

Where was the Word of life before it was manifested to John?

The Word of life was with the Father before it was manifested to John.

1 John 1:3

Why is John declaring what he has seen and heard?

John is declaring what he has seen and heard so that others may also have fellowship with him.

With whom does John already have fellowship?

John already has fellowship with the Father and his Son, Jesus Christ.

1 John 1:5

What message from God is John announcing to his readers?

John is announcing the message that God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all.

1 John 1:6

What does John say about a person who says he has fellowship with God, but walks in darkness?

John says that such a person is a liar and does not practice the truth.

1 John 1:7

For those walking in the light, what cleanses them from all sin?

The blood of Jesus cleanses them from all sin.

1 John 1:8

What does John say about a person who says they have no sin?

John says that such a person deceives himself and the truth is not in him.

1 John 1:9

What will God do for those who confess their sins?

For those who confess their sins, God will forgive their sins and cleanse them from all unrighteousness.

Chapter 2

¹ Children, I am writing these things to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous. ² He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the whole world. ³ We know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. ⁴ The one who says "I know God" but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. ⁵ But whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God has been perfected. By this we know that we are in him: ⁶ whoever says that he remains in God should himself also walk just as he walked.

⁷ Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment that you have had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you heard. ⁸ Yet I am writing a new commandment to you, which is true in Christ and in you, because the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining. ⁹ The one who says that he is in the light and hates his brother is in the darkness until now. ¹⁰ The one who loves his brother remains in the light and there is no occasion for stumbling in him. ¹¹ But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness; he does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

¹² I am writing to you, children, because your sins are forgiven because of his name. ¹³ I am writing to you, fathers, because you know the one who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father.

¹⁴ I have written to you, fathers, because you know the one who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God remains in you, and you have overcome the evil one. ¹⁵ Do not love the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. ¹⁶ For everything that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the arrogance of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. ¹⁷ The world and its desire are passing away. But whoever does the will of God will remain forever.

¹⁸ Children, it is the last hour. Just as you heard that the antichrist is coming, now many antichrists have come. By this we know that it is the last hour. ¹⁹ They went out from us, but they were not from us. For if they had been from us they would have remained with us. But when they went out, that showed they were not from us. ²⁰ But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you all know. ²¹ I did not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it and because no lie is from the truth. ²² Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? That person is the antichrist, since he denies the Father and the Son. ²³ No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son also has the Father. ²⁴ As for you, let what you have heard from the beginning remain in you. If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, you will also remain in the Son and in the Father. ²⁵ This is the promise he gave to us—eternal life. ²⁶ I have written these things to you about those who would lead you astray. ²⁷ As for you, the anointing that you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you everything and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, remain in him.

²⁸ Now, children, remain in him so that when he appears we will have boldness and not be ashamed before him at his coming. ²⁹ If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born from him.

1 John 2 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Antichrist

In this chapter John writes about both a specific antichrist and many antichrists. The word "antichrist" means "opposed to Christ." The antichrist is a person who will come in the last days and imitate Jesus's work, but he will do it for evil. Before this person comes, there will be many people who work against Christ; they too are called "antichrists." (See: antichrist and lastday and evil)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

There are several groups of similar metaphors that are used throughout this chapter.

Being in God is a metaphor for having fellowship with God, and God's word and truth being in people is a metaphor for people knowing and obeying God's word.

Walking is a metaphor for behaving, not knowing where one is going is a metaphor for not knowing how to behave, and stumbling is a metaphor for sinning.

The light is a metaphor for knowing and doing what is right, and darkness and blindness are metaphors for not knowing what is right and doing what is wrong.

Leading people astray is a metaphor for teaching people things that are not true.

1 John 2

2:1-2

Verse 1 has the word “if” in it. Is it like the statements in 1 John 1 that also have “if”?

[2:1]

John said five things using the word “if (ἐάν/#g1437)” in 1 John 1. In 1:1, he said something using the word “if” as well. He said the same thing that he said in 1 John 1 in a very short way. Here, he said that when a Christian sin, God forgives them. However, bad things still often happen when Christians sin. Because of this, John wanted Christians to try hard to stop sinning. But when they sin, John wanted them to ask God to forgive them.

How does Jesus “help” Christians?

[2:1]

Jesus “advocates for” or helps Christians. Only John used this Greek word translated “help” to say what Jesus and the Holy Spirit do. John wanted to say that someone who helps is someone who does things for someone else. For example, if someone is accused of a crime, he helps by speaking to the judge for that person. Jesus goes to God, the judge, and speaks for Christians. Jesus also helps Christians live in a way that honors God.

See: John 14:16, 14:26, 15:26, and 16:7

See: [Intercede (Intercession)] (../articles/intercede.md)

When Jesus died, he suffered the punishment for the sins that Christians do. How could Jesus suffer for Christians?

[2:2]

Scripture says that if anyone sins, God must punish him. But Scripture also says that God punished Jesus in the place of sinners. He did this when Jesus agreed to die on the cross.

John wrote about what happened when one person, Jesus, died for everyone else. He was a “propitiation for our sins (ἱλασμός/#g2434).” This Greek word was only used twice in Scripture. Both times are in this letter. John wrote this word to talk about something that Jesus gave to God so that God would forgive the sins of mankind. However, God would only accept one thing, his Son should die. God must punish sin, so he punished Jesus instead of mankind. In other words, when Jesus died on the cross, God stopped being angry with people who trust in Jesus. However, he remains angry with the rest of mankind.

When people worshiped other gods in the ancient Near East, they often thought that their gods became angry for very small reasons. For example, they thought that these gods quarreled or fought among themselves and with mankind, the same way that people often quarrel with one another. However, John showed that God is angry for only one reason, that is, when mankind sins.

So some scholars think that when John wrote “propitiation for our sins,” he wanted to say that God was at peace with Christians, even after they have sinned. This is why God does not punish Christians.

See: Atone (Atonement); Atone (Atonement)

See: Romans 3:25; Hebrews 2:17; 1 John 4:10

Advice to translators: When God is angry with people, he is angry because he is just, not because he commits sin.

Did Christ die for the sins of all people?

[2:2]

Some scholars think that Jesus died for the sins of all people in the world. It was in this way that Jesus made it possible for people to live together with God forever. However, it is only those who believe in him who will live with him.

Other scholars think that Jesus only died for the sins of some people, that is, for those who would believe in him. They think Jesus only died for the people whom God has chosen. They think that John said that Jesus died for certain people everywhere in the world.

See: John 3:16

See: Elect (Election); Elect (Election)

2:3-6

How does someone “know” God?

[2:3]

For John, when a person “knows” God, he does not only know who he is. He also knows that God is good, and he knows why God acts as he does.

John wrote that anyone who obeys the word of God knows God. When someone knows God, he wants to please him. That is why he obeys him. John wrote that a Christian must obey God. He also wanted to say that it is better to obey him than it is to know many things about him.

Some people in ancient times said that God secretly told them things. Therefore, they said that they knew secret things about God. Perhaps John was thinking about these people when he wrote that Christians must obey God.
What does John mean by remain or abide (μένω/#g3306)?

See: Abide

2:7-11

What are the old and new commandments?

[2:7]

John wrote that Christians should obey God. Perhaps John was thinking about the things that the apostles taught, when he wrote this. This is what some scholars think.

The old commandment that John was writing about was Jesus’ command to love other people. However, he says it is also new, perhaps he is telling it again to them.

See: Matthew 22:36-40

See: Law of Moses; Gospel; Law of Moses;

What are the darkness and the light?

[2:8]

Perhaps John continued to speak about light in order to talk about God. He wanted to say that God always does what is right, and that he always says what is true. He is like light, which makes everyone able to see. This is what some scholars think.

John wrote about darkness in order to talk about sin. The writers of the Scriptures often say that the world is evil, and John himself said this world is “dark.”

John wrote in verse 8 that the darkness is passing away, going away, or disappearing. Perhaps he wanted to say that the gospel is causing people to believe in Jesus. This makes the world less evil, or “dark.” This is what some scholars think.

When John wrote about people walking in darkness, perhaps he was thinking about Christians who deliberately sin. Some scholars think so. Or, perhaps John was thinking about non-Christians. These people often live very wrongly. This shows that they are not Christians, and that they are living in darkness. They are very far from Christ.

See: World

Why should Christians love other Christians?

[2:9, 2:10]

John wrote that Christians should love other Christians. He was thinking about this when he wrote the metaphor about light and darkness. People who honor God are walking in the light because they love other Christians. People who do not love other Christians are not living in the right way. They are living as they did before they became Christians. John says that these people are in the darkness. The darkness stops these Christians from knowing that they themselves sin.

Some scholars think that John was speaking about Christians who have difficulty loving certain other Christians.

John also wrote that Christians are brothers, because they are part of God’s family. Families must love other people in their family. Also, Christians must love non-Christians.

See: Matthew 22:39-40

See: Metaphor

Advice to translators: Scripture often speaks about the way a Christian lives as walking. Express this idea in the same way that your local version of 1 John does.

2:12-17

What is the world?

[2:15]

Usually, when the writers of Scripture wrote about “the world,” they were thinking about all of the people of the world. However, sometimes they were thinking about all the evil things of the world. That is, they were thinking about everything and everyone on earth that acts against God.

This is why John wrote that Christians must not love the world. Most of the people in the world do not honor God. They continually sin.

See: James 4:4

See: World

What things do people in this world like?

[2:16]

John wrote about three things that people like in this world. Each of these things is wrong. However, people still want these things.

(1) Lust of the flesh (2) Lust of the eyes (3) Arrogance of life

Perhaps these three things are really the same thing. If this is true, then John wrote these three things because he wanted people to think about the time when Satan persuaded Adam and Eve to sin in the Garden of Eden (see: Genesis 3:6). Adam and Eve proudly disobeyed God when they decided to eat the fruit that they wanted. Perhaps John was thinking about this when he was writing.

However, perhaps John was thinking about how Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness. This is what some other scholars think.

Or, perhaps John was thinking about when Satan rebelled against God (see: Isaiah 14). This is what some other scholars think.

See: World

2:18-25

How many antichrists are there?

[2:18]

Some scholars think that John used the word “antichrists” in two different ways. The first antichrist is a certain person, that is, the devil. He will come to earth and will look like a man. He will try to do the same things that Jesus did. This antichrist will oppose Jesus and his church. The second antichrist is anyone, in general, who opposes Jesus.

See: Antichrist

Who was John speaking about?

[2:19]

Some scholars think that John was writing about Christians in verse 19. These scholars think that some Christians left the larger group of Christians because they did not think in the same way at the larger group of Christians.

However, more scholars think that John was writing about non-Christians in verse 19. When these people left the Christians, they showed everyone that they were not truly Christians. These scholars think that there is a difference between those who say that they are Christians and those who are truly Christians, that is, people who will live together with God forever. Perhaps those who left the church decided to follow the false teachers.

See: Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins); Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins)

What is the anointing of the Holy Spirit?

[2:20]

See: Anoint (Anointing)

Who was John writing about when he wrote “all” in 2:20?

[2:20]

Some scholars think that “all” meant knowing all things or all the things about Jesus that you need to know. Other scholars believe that it is a reference to knowing all of the truth. This can be all of the truth about Jesus or the truth about the false teachers. Still others believe that it is “all’ of the people know the truth.

Some scholars think that when John wrote “all,” he wanted to say that Christians know all the things they need to know about Jesus. However, other scholars think that John was talking about knowing all of the truth about Jesus or about the false teachers. Still others think that John wanted to say that all Christians know the truth.

2:26-29

How do Christians do what is right?

[2:29]

Scholars think different things about verse 29. Perhaps John wanted to say that Jesus saves Christians only if they live in the right way. Perhaps he wanted to say that if Jesus saved someone, that person would certainly live in the right way. Or perhaps he wanted to say that a person could not live in the right way if Jesus has not saved him. If this is true, then people who do not believe in Jesus sin even when they do good things.

1 John 2:1

General Information:

Here the word "we" refers to John and all believers.

Connecting Statement:

John continues to write about fellowship and shows that it is possible because Jesus goes between believers and the Father.

Children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. Alternate translation: "You who are as dear to me as my own children"

I am writing these things

"I am writing this letter"

But if anyone sins

"But when anyone sins." This is something that is likely to happen.

we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous

The word "advocate" here refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: "we have Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous, who speaks to the Father and asks him to forgive us"

1 John 2:2

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins

"God is no longer angry with us because Jesus sacrificed his own life for our sins"

1 John 2:3

We know that we have come to know him

"We know that we know him" or "We know that we have a good relationship with him"

if we keep his commandments

"if we obey what he commands"

1 John 2:4

The one who says

"Anyone who says" or "The person who says"

I know God

"I have a good relationship with God"

does not keep

"does not obey" or "disobeys"

his commandments

"what God tells him to do"

the truth is not in him

The truth is spoken of as if it were an object that could be inside the believers. Alternate translation: "he does not believe what God says is true"

1 John 2:5

keeps his word

To keep someone's word here is an idiom for to obey. Alternate translation: "does what God tells him to do"

in him truly the love of God has been perfected

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "the love of God" refers to a person loving God, and "perfected" represents completely or fully. Alternate translation: "it is that person who loves God completely" or 2) "the love of God" refers to God loving people, and "perfected" represents completing its purpose. Alternate translation: "God's love has achieved its purpose in that person's life"

By this we know that we are in him

The phrase "we are in him" means that the believer has fellowship with God. Alternate translation: "When we obey what God says, we can be certain that we have fellowship with him" or "By this we know that are joined to God"

1 John 2:6

remains in God

To remain in God means to continue to have fellowship with God. Alternate translation: "continues to have fellowship with God" or "stays joined to God"

should himself also walk just as he walked

Conducting one's life is spoken of as if it were walking on a path. Alternate translation: "must live as he lived" or "should also obey God just as Jesus Christ did"

1 John 2:7

Connecting Statement:

John gives believers basic principles of fellowship—obedience and love.

Beloved, I am

"You people whom I love, I am" or "Dear friends, I am"

I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment that you have had

"I write to you to love one other, which is not a new thing to do but an old commandment that you have heard." John refers to Jesus's command to love one another.

from the beginning

Here, "beginning" refers to when they decided to follow Christ. Alternate translation: "from when you first believed in Christ"

The old commandment is the word that you heard

"The old commandment is the message that you heard"

1 John 2:8

Yet I am writing a new commandment to you

"But in one way the commandment I write to you is a new commandment"

which is true in Christ and in you

"which is true, as shown in Christ's deeds and your deeds"

the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining

Here "darkness" is a metaphor for "evil," and "light" is a metaphor for "good." Alternate translation: "you are ceasing to do evil and you are doing more and more good"

1 John 2:9

General Information:

Here the word "brother" refers to a fellow Christian.

The one who says

"Anyone who says" or "Someone who claims." This does not refer to a specific person.

he is in the light

Here to be "in the light" is a metaphor for doing what is right. Alternate translation: "he does what is right"

is in the darkness

Here to be "in the darkness" is a metaphor for doing what is evil. Alternate translation: "does what is evil"

1 John 2:10

there is no occasion for stumbling in him

"nothing will cause him to stumble." The word "stumbling" is a metaphor that means to fail spiritually or morally. Alternate translation: "nothing will cause him to sin" or "he will not fail to do what is pleasing to God"

1 John 2:11

is in the darkness and walks in the darkness

Here "walk" is a metaphor for how a person lives or behaves. Here to be "in the darkness" and "walks in the darkness" mean the same thing. This brings attention to how evil it is to hate a fellow believer. Alternate translation: "does what is evil"

he does not know where he is going

This is a metaphor for the believer who is not living as a Christian should be living. Alternate translation: "he does not know what he should do"

the darkness has blinded his eyes

"the darkness has made him unable to see." Darkness is a metaphor for sin or evil. Alternate translation: "sin has made it impossible for him to understand the truth"

1 John 2:12

General Information:

John explains why he is writing his letter either to different age groups or to believers with differences in maturity. Try to use similar wording for these sentences, as they are written poetically.

you, children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in [1 John 2:1]

your sins are forgiven

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God forgives your sins"

because of his name

"his name" refers to Christ and who he is. Alternate translation: "because of what Christ has done for you"

1 John 2:13

I am writing to you, fathers

The word "fathers" here is possibly a metaphor referring to mature believers. Alternate translation: "I am writing to you, mature believers"

you know

"you have a relationship with"

the one who is from the beginning

"the one who has always lived" or "the one who has always existed." It refers either to "Jesus" or to "God the Father."

young men

This possibly refers to those who are no longer new believers but are growing in spiritual maturity. Alternate translation: "young believers"

overcome

The writer is speaking of the believers' refusal to follow Satan and of their frustrating his plans as if it were a matter of conquering him.

1 John 2:14

you are strong

Here "strong" refers not to believers' physical strength, but to their faithfulness to Christ.

the word of God remains in you

"Word of God" here is a metonym for the message from God. The writer refers to the believers' increased faithfulness to Christ and knowledge of him as if he were speaking of God's word existing in them. Alternate translation: "God's message continues to teach you" or "you know the word of God"

1 John 2:15

Do not love the world or

In 2:15-17 the word "world" refers to all the things people want to do that do not honor God. Alternate translation: "Do not behave like the people in the world who do not honor God, and do not love"

the things that are in the world

"the things that those who dishonor God want"

If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him

A person cannot love this world and all that dishonors God and love the Father at the same time.

the love of the Father is not in him

"he does not love the Father"

1 John 2:16

the lust of the flesh

"the strong desire to have sinful physical pleasure"

the lust of the eyes

"the strong desire to have things that we see"

is not from the Father

"does not come from the Father" or "is not how the Father teaches us to live"

1 John 2:17

are passing away

"pass away" or "will one day not be here"

1 John 2:18

Connecting Statement:

John warns about those who are against Christ.

Children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in [1 John 2:1]

it is the last hour

The phrase "the last hour" refers to the time just before Jesus returns. Alternate translation: "Jesus will return soon"

many antichrists have come

"there are many people who are against Christ"

have come. By this we know

"have come, and because of this we know" or "have come, and because many antichrists have come, we know"

1 John 2:19

They went out from us

"They left us"

but they were not from us

"but they did not really belong to us anyway" or "but they were not really part of our group in the first place." The reason they were not really part of the group is that they were not believers in Jesus.

For if they had been from us they would have remained with us

"We know this because they would not have left us if they really had been believers"

1 John 2:20

General Information:

In the Old Testament the word "anointing" referred to pouring oil on a person to set him apart to serve God.

But you have an anointing from the Holy One

John speaks of the Holy Spirit as if he were "an anointing" that the people have received from Jesus. The abstract noun "anointing" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "But the Holy One has anointed you" or "But Jesus Christ, the Holy One, has given you his Spirit"

the Holy One

This refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: "Jesus, the Holy One"

you all know

Your language might allow you to use the abstract noun "knowledge" here. If your language requires you to state what it is that the readers know, be as general as possible. Alternate translation: "you all have knowledge" or "you all know what is true"

1 John 2:21

the truth ... no lie is from the truth

The abstract noun "truth" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "what is true ... no lie comes from what is true"

1 John 2:22

Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ?

"Who is the liar? Anyone who denies that Jesus is the Christ." John used a question to emphasize who liars are. Alternate translation: "The one who denies that Jesus is the Christ is the liar"

denies that Jesus is the Christ

"refuses to say that Jesus is the Christ" or "says that Jesus is not the Messiah"

denies the Father and the Son

"refuses to say the truth about the Father and the Son" or "rejects the Father and the Son."

Father ... Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

1 John 2:23

has the Father

"belongs to the Father"

confesses the Son

"speaks the truth about the Son"

has the Father

"belongs to the Father"

1 John 2:24

General Information:

Here the word "you" is plural and refers to the people to whom John wrote, as well as all believers. The word "he" is emphatic and refers to Christ.

Connecting Statement:

John reminds believers to continue in what they have first heard.

As for you

This marks John's telling them how they should live as followers of Jesus instead of how those against Christ live.

let what you have heard from the beginning remain in you

"remember and believe what you have heard from the beginning." How they heard it, what they heard, and what "the beginning" means can be made explicit: Alternate translation: "continue to trust what we have taught you about Jesus just as you have trusted since you first became believers"

what you have heard from the beginning

"what we taught you about Jesus when you first became believers"

If what you heard from the beginning remains in you

The word "remains" is talking about relationship, not salvation. Alternate translation: "If you continue to trust what we first taught you"

also remain in the Son and in the Father

To "remain in" means to continue to have fellowship with. See how you translated a similar phrase to "remain in" in [1 John 2:6]

1 John 2:25

This is the promise he gave to us—eternal life.

"This is what he promised to give us—eternal life" or "He has promised to cause us to live forever"

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. Here "life" refers to being alive spiritually. See how you translated this in [1 John 1:1]

1 John 2:26

those who would lead you astray

Here "lead you astray" is a metaphor for persuading someone to believe something that is not true. Alternate translation: "those who want to deceive you" or "those who want to make you believe lies about Jesus Christ"

1 John 2:27

Connecting Statement:

Starting in verse 29, John introduces the idea of being born into God's family. The previous verses show that believers continue to sin; this part shows that believers also have the new nature, which cannot sin. It continues to show how believers can recognize each other.

As for you

This marks John's telling them something else about how they should live as followers of Jesus instead of following those who are against Christ.

the anointing that you received from him remains in you

John speaks of the Holy Spirit as if he were "the anointing" that the people have received from Jesus and remains in them. The abstract noun "anointing" can be translated with a verbal phrase. See how you translated "anointing" in [1 John 2:20]

as his anointing teaches you everything

Here the word "everything" is a generalization. Alternate translation: "because his anointing teaches you everything that you need to know" or "because his Spirit teaches you everything that you need to know"

1 John 2:28

Now

This word is used here to mark a new part of the letter.

Now, children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in [1 John 2:1]

he appears

"we see him"

boldness

having no fear

not be ashamed before him

"not be ashamed in his presence"

at his coming

"when he comes again"

1 John 2:29

has been born from him

"has been born of God" or "is God's child"

ULB Translation Questions

1 John 2:2

For whose sins is Jesus Christ the sacrifice for?

Jesus Christ is the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world.

1 John 2:3

How do we know if we know Jesus Christ?

We know if we know Jesus Christ if we keep his commandments.

1 John 2:4

What kind of person is someone who says they know God, but does not keep God's commandments?

Someone who says they know God, but does not keep God's commandments, is a liar.

1 John 2:6

How should a believer walk?

A believer should walk even as Jesus Christ walked.

1 John 2:9

What is the spiritual condition of someone who says he is in the light, but hates his brother?

Someone who says he is in the light, but hates his brother, is in the darkness.

1 John 2:11

What is the spiritual condition of someone who says he is in the light, but hates his brother?

Someone who says he is in the light, but hates his brother, is in the darkness.

1 John 2:12

Why does God forgive the sins of believers?

God forgives the sins of believers for Christ's name sake.

1 John 2:15

What does John say a believer's attitude toward the things of the world must be?

He says the believer must not love the world nor the things of the world.

1 John 2:16

What are the three things in the world that John names as being not of the Father?

He names the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the vain glory of life as being in the world and not of the Father.

1 John 2:18

How does John say he knows it is the last hour?

He says he knows it is the last hour because many antichrists have come.

Who does John say is coming?

He says that the antichrist is coming.

1 John 2:22

What will the antichrist do that will enable us to recognize him?

The antichrist will deny the Father and the Son.

1 John 2:23

Can someone who denies the Son have the Father?

No, someone who denies the Son cannot have the Father.

1 John 2:24

What does John tell the believers to do in order to remain in the Son and in the Father?

John tells the believers to remain in what they have heard from the beginning.

1 John 2:25

What promise has been given the believers by God?

God has promised the believers eternal life.

1 John 2:28

What attitudes will those who remain in the Son have when Christ appears at his coming?

Those who remain in the Son will have boldness and will not be ashamed when Christ appears at his coming.

Chapter 3

¹ See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God, and this is what we are. For this reason, the world does not know us, because it did not know him. ^[1]² Beloved, we are now children of God, and it has not yet been revealed what we will be. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like him, for we will see him just as he is. ³ Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself just as he is pure. ⁴ Everyone who sins is committing acts of lawlessness, for sin is lawlessness. ⁵ You know that Christ was revealed in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. ⁶ No one who remains in him will keep on sinning. No one who continues to sin has seen him or known him. ⁷ Children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does righteousness is righteous, just as Christ is righteous. ⁸ The one who commits sin is from the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this reason the Son of God was revealed, so that he would destroy the devil's works. ⁹ Whoever has been born from God does not continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him. He cannot continue to sin because he has been born of God. ¹⁰ In this the children of God and children of the devil are revealed: Whoever does not do what is righteous is not from God, neither is the one who does not love his brother. ¹¹ For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another. ¹² We should not be like Cain, who was from the evil one and murdered his brother. Why did he kill him? Because his works were evil and his brother's righteous.

¹³ Do not be amazed, my brothers, if the world hates you. ¹⁴ We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death. ¹⁵ Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer. You know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him. ¹⁶ By this we know love, because Christ laid down his life for us. We also ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. ¹⁷ But whoever has the world's goods, sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart of compassion from him, how does the love of God remain in him? ¹⁸ My children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in actions and truth. ¹⁹ It is by this we know that we are from the truth, and we assure our hearts before him. ²⁰ For if our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts, and he knows all things. ²¹ Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. ²² Whatever we ask we will receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do the things that are pleasing before him. ²³ This is his commandment: that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he gave us this commandment. ²⁴ The one who keeps God's commandments remains in him, and God remains in him. By this we know that he remains in us, by the Spirit whom he gave to us.

Footnotes

3:1 ^[1]Some important and ancient Greek copies leave out,

1 John 3 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Children of God

God created all people, but people can only become children of God by believing in Jesus. (See: believe)

Cain

Cain was a son of the first man, Adam, and the first woman, Eve. He was jealous of his brother and murdered him. Readers may not know who Cain was if they have not read Genesis. It may help them if you explain this to them.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

"To know"

The verb "to know" is used in two different ways in this chapter. Sometimes it is used about knowing a fact, as in 3:2, 3:5, and 3:19. Sometimes it means to experience and understand someone or something, as in 3:1, 3:6, 3:16, and 3:20. Some languages have different words for these different meanings.

"He who keeps God's commandments remains in him, and God remains in him"

Many scholars believe this is about remaining in God's will and is not about being saved. (See: eternity and save)

1 John 3

3: 1-3

Who are the children of God?

[3:1]

John wrote that Christians are children of God. However, Christians are not the physical children of God. That is, God did not give birth to their bodies. He did not give birth to them as a mother gives birth to her children. Instead, Christians have been born a second time. John wrote that they are born “from” God (see: 1 John 2:29).

When John wrote about God, he showed that a person must be born a second time (see: John 3). If a person is not born a second time, John wrote that he is a child of the devil (see: 3:10). But if God gives birth to a person a second time, that person is at peace with God. He is a friend of God.

See: Born Again (New Life, Regeneration)

How will Christians be like Jesus when he returns to the earth?

[3:2]

In 3:2, John showed that after a person starts to believe in Jesus, he begins to act more like Jesus. He begins to live more rightly, because he wants to honor God. God changes him little by little to be more like Jesus. God will continue to change him as long as he is alive in this world. When Jesus returns to this world, God will change the Christians to be like Jesus. God will unite them completely with Jesus. They will not sin anymore. They will no longer suffer or have pain. Nothing bad can hurt them anymore.

3:4-10

What is lawlessness?

[3:4]

In Scripture, God told his people to obey the laws or rules that he made for them. The devil and sinners work against God, so they are against the law, lawless, without the law, or outside of the law. When someone works against God, that is, they take a side against God and side with Satan. John said that they are “lawless.” The false teachers took sides for Satan and against God.

See: Law of Moses

Advice to translators: Translate “lawless” however your local version translates this idea.

When John wrote about sinning again and again, whom was he thinking about?

[3:6]

When John wrote about sinning again and again, he was thinking about the false teachers and anyone else who does the work of the devil instead of the work of Jesus.

See: 1 John 1:8, 10; Romans 7:20

Advice to translators: Many translations of 3:4 and 1 John 2:29 can appear to contradict each other. This note is an attempt to clarify this apparent contradiction. Not all translation will need this clarification.

3:11-17

Why did Cain kill Abel?

[3:12]

The book of Genesis showed that Cain and Abel were the sons of Adam and Eve. It also showed that Cain murdered Abel. It did not say why Cain killed him. It only said that God refused to accept what Cain sacrificed to him. Then Cain became angry at his brother (see: Gen 4). John showed how Cain was different from Christians, those who follow Jesus and honor him. They are different from those who follow the devil, that is, those who do not honor God.

Those who belong to the devil, they like to sin. This is why they hate those who live rightly, that is, those who want to honor God.

Children of the devil do evil things because they want to insult God, and because they hate God’s children. John wrote that anyone who hates another person is the same as one who murders him. He wrote this because often people murder others because they hate them.

Why does the world hate Christians?

[3:13]

Frequently, people who do not believe in Jesus go so far as to hate Christians. When someone sins because he wishes to do, he then wants to sin more. If he hates another person, there is nothing more to do than kill him. This is what happened to Cain.

See: World; World

Advice to translators: In Scripture, the writers often write the word “world” when they want to speak about all of the sinful people in the world. Also, Scripture shows that a person can sin more and more unless he repents.

When John wrote “anyone,” who was he thinking of?

[3:15]

John wrote that “anyone” who hates another person would not get to live together with God in heaven forever. Some scholars believe that Christians cannot murder another person. This is because God makes them new when they believe in Jesus. Others believe that Christians can still commit very evil sins. Murder is an example of this. However, when Christians do this, they are not doing the things that God wants them to do.

See: Abide

3:18-24

Why did John write that Christians belong to the “truth”?

[3:19]

Perhaps when John wrote that Christians belong to the “truth (αληθεια/#g225) or are from the truth, he wanted to say that they believe true things about God. This is another way of saying that Christians belong to God. They are different from those who belong to the devil. This is what some scholars think. However, perhaps John wanted to say that Christians obey God. It is those who obey God, they believe the right things about God and doing the right things.

Advice to translators: Translate “heart” the way your local version of 1 John translates it.

What is the heart?

[3:19]

When John wrote about the “heart” he was thinking that Christians know when they have sinned. They know this in their heart. The Jews thought that the heart was where they knew this. John wrote that Christians’ hearts can sometimes condemn them. He wanted to say that Christians know that they deserve for God to punish them for having sinned.

Perhaps John wanted to say that God wants Christians to completely obey him, even more than they think in their hearts that they should obey him. Some scholars think this.

However, more scholars think that John wanted to say that God knows Christians better than they know themselves. God knows the things that Christians really want to do. He knows how much they want to obey him. Therefore, only God can comfort Christians.

When John wrote that God gives Christians what they pray for, what did he want to say?

Here John wrote that Christians must obey what God commands. Christians should do the things that God desires. Therefore, Christians should ask for things that God wants. When they ask him for these things, God gives them these things. What does the Holy Spirit do for Christians?

Perhaps John wants to say that the Holy Spirit allows Christians to know that they will live with God forever. This is what some scholars think. Or, perhaps John wants to say that the Holy Spirit allows believers to know that God is with them now. This is because Christians cannot know this on their own, without the Holy Spirit making it known to them.

See: Indwelling of the Holy Spirit; Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

1 John 3:1

Connecting Statement:

In this part John tells the believers about their new nature, which cannot sin.

See what kind of love the Father has given to us

"Think about how our Father loves us so much"

we should be called children of God

"the Father called us his children"

children of God

Here this means people who belong to God through faith in Jesus.

For this reason, the world does not know us, because it did not know him

Possible meanings are 1) "Because we are the children of God and because the world did not know God, it does not know us" or 2) "Because the world did not know God, it does not know us."

the world does not know us, because it did not know him

Here "the world" refers to people who do not honor God. What the world did not know can be made explicit: Alternate translation: "those who do not honor God do not know that we belong to God, because they did not know God"

1 John 3:2

Beloved, we are

"You people whom I love, we are" or "Dear friends, we are." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

it has not yet been revealed

This can be stated in active form: Alternate translation: "God has not yet revealed"

revealed

This can mean here either "told," "demonstrated," or "shown."

1 John 3:3

Everyone who has this hope in him

The word "him" refers to Christ. Having hope in Christ means expecting that because of Christ, what is hoped for will happen. Alternate translation: "Everyone who has this hope because of Christ" or "Everyone who trusts Christ to fulfill this hope"

who has this hope in him

The phrase "this hope" refers to the hope of being like Christ, as mentioned in the previous verse. Here to have hope is to confidently expect something good. Alternate translation: "who confidently expects in Christ to become like Christ" or "who confidently waits for Christ to cause him to become like Christ"

purifies himself just as he is pure

"keeps himself pure because Christ is pure"

1 John 3:4

General Information:

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1 John 3:5

Christ was revealed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Christ appeared" or "the Father revealed Christ"

1 John 3:6

remains in him

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in [1 John 2:6]

No one ... has seen him or known him

John uses the words "seen" and "known" to say that the person who sins has never met Christ in a spiritual sense. A person behaving according to his sinful nature cannot know Christ. Alternate translation: "No one ... has ever truly believed in him"

1 John 3:7

Children, do not let

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in [1 John 2:1]

do not let anyone lead you astray

Here "lead you astray" is a metaphor for persuading someone to believe something that is not true. Alternate translation: "do not let anyone fool you" or "do not let anyone deceive you"

The one who does righteousness is righteous, just as Christ is righteous

"He who does what is right is pleasing to God just as Christ is pleasing to God."

1 John 3:8

is from the devil

"belongs to the devil" or "is like the devil"

from the beginning

This refers to the very earliest time of creation before humans first sinned. Alternate translation: "since the earliest time of creation"

the Son of God was revealed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God revealed his Son"

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God.

1 John 3:9

Connecting Statement:

For now John ends this section on the new birth and the new nature which cannot sin.

Whoever has been born from God

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Whoever God has made his child"

God's seed

This speaks of the Holy Spirit, whom God gives to believers and who makes them able to resist sin and do what pleases God as if he were a physical seed that is planted in the earth and grows. Alternate translation: "the Holy Spirit"

he has been born of God

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has given him new spiritual life" or "he is a child of God"

1 John 3:10

In this the children of God and children of the devil are revealed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are"

Whoever does not do what is righteous is not from God, neither is the one who does not love his brother

"whoever does not do what is righteous is not from God; whoever does not love his brother is also not from God" or "those who are from God do what is right, and those who are from God love their brothers"

his brother

Here "brother" means fellow Christians.

1 John 3:11

General Information:

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1 John 3:12

General Information:

Cain and Abel were the first sons of Adam and Eve, the first man and woman.

We should not be like Cain

"We should not do as Cain did"

brother

This refers to Cain's younger brother Abel.

Why did he kill him? Because

John uses a question to teach his audience. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "He killed him because"

his works were evil and his brother's righteous

The words "works were" are also understood in the second phrase. Alternate translation: "Cain's works were evil and his brother's works were righteous" or "Cain did evil things and his brother did what was right"

1 John 3:13

my brothers

"my fellow believers." John's readers were both male and female.

if the world hates you

Here the word "world" refers to the people who do not honor God. Alternate translation: "if those who do not honor God hate you who do honor God"

1 John 3:14

we have passed out of death into life

The conditions of living and of being dead are spoken of as if they were physical locations that a person could leave from and go to. The abstract nouns "life" and "death" can be translated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: "we are no longer spiritually dead but are spiritually alive"

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. Here "life" refers to being alive spiritually. See how you translated this in [1 John 1:1]

remains in death

"is still spiritually dead"

1 John 3:15

Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer

John speaks of a person who hates another believer as if he were a murderer. Since people commit murder because they hate other people, God considers anyone who hates to be as guilty as someone who kills a person. Alternate translation: "Whoever hates another believer is as guilty as someone who kills a person"

no murderer has eternal life residing in him

"Eternal life" does refer to believers living forever after they have died, but it is also the power that God gives believers in this life to help them to stop sinning and to do what please him. Here eternal life is spoken of as if it were a person that could live in someone. Alternate translation: "a murderer does not have the power of spiritual life"

1 John 3:16

Christ laid down his life for us

This expression means "Christ willingly gave his life for us" or "Christ willingly died for us"

1 John 3:17

the world's goods

material possessions like money, food, or clothing

sees his brother in need

"realizes a fellow believer needs help"

shuts up his heart of compassion from him

Here "heart" is a metonym for "thoughts" or "emotions." Here "shuts up his heart of compassion" is a metaphor for no longer showing someone compassion. Alternate translation: "does not show him compassion" or "does not willingly help him"

how does the love of God remain in him?

John uses a question to teach his audience. Alternate translation: "God's love is not in him"

1 John 3:18

My children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in [1 John 2:1]

let us not love in word or in tongue, but in actions and truth

The phrases "in word" and "in tongue" both refer to what a person says. Alternate translation: "do not just say that you love people, but show that you truly love people by helping them"

in actions and truth

The words "let us love" are understood here. Alternate translation: "let us love in actions and truth"

1 John 3:19

Connecting Statement:

Here John probably means that believers' ability to love God and each other sincerely (1 John 3:18) is a sign that their new life has indeed originated from the truth about Christ.

we are from the truth

People living according to the truth is spoken of as they were "from the truth." Alternate translation: "we are living according the way Jesus taught us" or "we belong to him who is true"

we assure our hearts

The word "heart" here refers to feelings. Alternate translation: "we do not feel guilty"

1 John 3:20

if our hearts condemn us

Here "hearts" is a metonym for people's thoughts or consciences. Here "hearts condemn us" is a metaphor for feeling guilty. Alternate translation: "if we know that we have sinned and as a result feel guilty"

God is greater than our hearts

Here "hearts" is metonym for people's thoughts or consciences. For God to be "greater than our hearts" means that God knows more than a person. Therefore he can judge things better than a person can. The effect of this truth is probably that God is more merciful than our consciences would suppose. Alternate translation: "God knows more than we do"

1 John 3:21

Beloved, if

"You people whom I love, if" or "Dear friends, if." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

1 John 3:22

do the things that are pleasing before him

Here "before him" represents God's opinion or what he thinks about something. Alternate translation: "do the things that are pleasing to him" or "do what pleases him"

1 John 3:23

This is his commandment: that we should believe ... just as he gave us this commandment

The abstract noun "commandment" can be stated as "command." Alternate translation: "This is what God commands us to do: Believe ... just as he commanded us to do"

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

1 John 3:24

remains in him, and God remains in him

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in [1 John 2:6]

he remains in us

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. Alternate translation: "God continues to have fellowship with us"

ULB Translation Questions

1 John 3:1

What has the Father bestowed on believers because of his love?

The Father has bestowed on them the name children of God.

1 John 3:2

What has the Father bestowed on believers because of his love?

The Father has bestowed on them the name children of God.

What will happen to believers when Christ appears?

When Christ appears, believers will be like Christ, and will see him as he is.

1 John 3:3

What does every believer who hopes in Christ do concerning himself?

Every believer who hopes in Christ purifies himself.

1 John 3:5

What does Christ not have in himself?

Christ has no sin in himself.

1 John 3:6

What relationship to God does someone have who continues in sin?

Whoever continues in sin has neither seen Christ, nor known him.

1 John 3:8

For what reason was the Son of God revealed?

The Son of God was revealed to destroy the works of the devil.

1 John 3:9

How are the children of God and the children of the devil each revealed?

The children of God are revealed as they do righteousness, and the children of the devil are revealed as they sin.

1 John 3:10

How are the children of God and the children of the devil each revealed?

The children of God are revealed as they do righteousness, and the children of the devil are revealed as they sin.

What attitude toward the believers demonstrates that someone is a child of God?

The attitude of love toward the believers demonstrates that someone is a child of God.

1 John 3:11

What attitude toward the believers demonstrates that someone is a child of God?

The attitude of love toward the believers demonstrates that someone is a child of God.

1 John 3:12

How did Cain demonstrate that he was a child of the evil one?

Cain demonstrated that he was a child of the evil one when he murdered his brother.

1 John 3:13

At what does John say the believers should not marvel?

John says the believers should not marvel that the world hates them.

1 John 3:14

What attitude toward the believers demonstrates that someone is a child of God?

The attitude of love toward the believers demonstrates that someone is a child of God.

1 John 3:16

How do we know what love is?

We know what love is because Christ laid down his life for us.

1 John 3:17

When there is a brother in need, how does a believer demonstrate the love of God?

When there is a brother in need, a believer demonstrates the love of God by helping him with this world's goods.

1 John 3:18

When there is a brother in need, how does a believer demonstrate the love of God?

When there is a brother in need, a believer demonstrates the love of God by helping him with this world's goods.

1 John 3:19

When a believer demonstrates the love of God in deed and truth, what does he obtain for himself?

When a believer demonstrates the love of God in deed and truth, he obtains for himself assurance and confidence toward God.

1 John 3:21

When a believer demonstrates the love of God in deed and truth, what does he obtain for himself?

When a believer demonstrates the love of God in deed and truth, he obtains for himself assurance and confidence toward God.

1 John 3:23

Of what commandment from God does John remind the believers?

John reminds the believers of God's commandment to believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and to love one another.

1 John 3:24

What has God given believers so that they know God remains in them?

God has given believers the Spirit so that they know God remains in them.

Chapter 4

¹ Beloved, do not believe every spirit. Instead, test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. ² By this you will know the Spirit of God—every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, ³ and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and now is already in the world. ^[1]⁴ You are from God, children, and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. ⁵ They are from the world; therefore what they say is from the world, and the world listens to them. ⁶ We are from God. Anyone who knows God listens to us. He who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.

⁷ Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and everyone who loves is born from God and knows God. ⁸ The person who does not love does not know God, for God is love. ⁹ Because of this the love of God was revealed among us, that God has sent his only Son into the world so that we would live because of him. ¹⁰ In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and that he sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. ¹¹ Beloved, if God so loved us, we also should love one another. ¹² No one has ever seen God. If we love one another, God remains in us, and his love is perfected in us. ¹³ By this we know that we remain in him and he in us, because he has given us some of his Spirit. ¹⁴ Also, we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. ¹⁵ Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God remains in him and he in God. ¹⁶ Also, we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and the one who remains in this love remains in God, and God remains in him. ¹⁷ Because of this, this love has been made perfect among us, so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because as he is, just so are we in this world. ¹⁸ There is no fear in love. Instead, perfect love throws out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. But the one who fears has not been made perfect in love. ¹⁹ We love because God first loved us. ²⁰ If anyone says, "I love God" but hates his brother, he is a liar. For the one who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. ²¹ Also, this is the commandment we have from him: Whoever loves God must also love his own brother.

Footnotes

4:3 ^[1]Some important and ancient Greek copies read,

1 John 4 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Spirit

This word "spirit" is used in different ways in this chapter. Sometimes the word "spirit" refers to spiritual beings. Sometimes it refers to the character of something. For example "the spirit of the antichrist," "the spirit of truth," and "the spirit of error" refer to what is typical of the antichrist, truth, and error. "The Spirit" (written with a capital "S") and "the Spirit of God" refer to God. (See: antichrist)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Loving God

If people love God, they should show it in the way they live and the way they treat other people. Doing this may assure us that God has saved us and that we belong to him, but loving others does not save us. (See: save)

1 John 4

4:1-6

How do Christians test people who teach about God?

[4:1]

Some people teach others the truth about God, but other people teach false things about him. John did not want the Christians to accept what everyone teaches about God. Instead, Christians must find out who is teaching the truth, and who is teaching wrong things.

John wanted to say that whenever a person teaches others about God, either the Holy Spirit is showing him what to say, or Satan is showing him. Therefore, believers must try to find out who is showing that teacher what to say.

Satan does not want to say that Jesus came from God. Also, Satan does not want to say that Jesus was a human being, that Jesus is the Son of God, or that Jesus himself is God.

John wrote that Jesus Christ has come “in the flesh.” Perhaps this means that Jesus came from God and was a human being in this world.

Satan did not want to say this. Therefore, if a teacher refused to say this, then the believers knew that Satan has shown these false teachers what to say. Only the Holy Spirit could have truly taught people about God. It is the Holy Spirit and angels from God who speak the truth about God, because they want to honor him.

This is not the only test Scripture gives to determine whether something is from God. The Old Testament talked about how to test the messages that false prophets said that they got from God (see: Deuteronomy 13:2-3). In addition to this, John also said that spirits from God would teach the same things the apostles taught, that is the gospel. Those who reject God will be unable to teach the true, biblical gospel.

See: 1 Corinthians 12:3

See: Gospel

When John wrote about the antichrist, who was he thinking about?

[4:3]

When John wrote 4:3, he was not thinking about one person. However, in 4:4, John was perhaps thinking about a person whom he called the antichrist. All of these persons came from the devil. They follow the way of the devil. They all try to stop Jesus from working on the earth.

However, some scholars think that in 4:4 John was not thinking about any one person. They do not think that the antichrist is a person who will come later. Instead, they think that John was writing about the devil. It is the devil who can do evil in this world. It is the devil who tells people to fight against those who believe in Jesus.

The Spirit of God is different from the spirit of the antichrist. At the beginning of 4:2, the Greek word “spirit” means the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a person. However, the “spirit” of the antichrist is not a person, but rather the power of the devil. It means everything that fights against Jesus.

See: John 12:31; 1 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:2

What is the Greek text of 4:3?

[4:3]

The oldest copies of 4:3 do not have the words “in the flesh (σάρξ/#g4561)”, so scholars think that someone added them much later. That person added them in order to explain what John wanted to say. In this way, he made this verse like 2 John 1:7 and 4:2. In those verses, John wanted to say that Jesus was truly a human being.

Most translators now do not translate these words in this verse.

4:7-12

When John wrote, “Everyone who loves is born of God,” what did he want to say?

[4:7]

John wanted to say that if anyone does not love other people, he does not know that God loves mankind. Also, he cannot be a friend of God. So he shows everyone that he is not a Christian.

However, John did not want to say that anyone who loves other people is a Christian. But he did think that Christians should love each other. John commanded them to do this. Some scholars think that 4:7 is the main idea of John’s whole letter.

When John wrote that Jesus is God’s one and only son, what did he want to say?

[4:9]

John wrote that Jesus is God’s “only” or “unique” Son. He wanted to say that Jesus is different from all Christians, who are also God’s children (see: 1 John 3:2). God made believers his children when he gave birth to them a second time. However, the Greek word “one and only” showed that Jesus is different. This is because he has always been God. He has always been the Son of God, because God the Father never gave him birth, that is, the Son of God has always existed, even before he became a human being.

How did God the Father send God the Son?

[4:10]

God the Son has the same power as God the Father, and he is just as great as the Father. Even so, God the Father sent the Son into this world (see: 4:9). Jesus is as great as his Father, but he came into the world when his Father told him to.

See: John 3:16

See: Trinity; Trinity

Has no one seen God?

[4:12]

John wrote that no one has seen God. John wanted to say that no one can look at God and continue to live. No one who sins can live beside God. He will die if he sees God. God will destroy anyone who tries to go near him (see: Exodus 33:20).

It is true that Jesus is God, but he is also a human being. When people saw Jesus, Jesus was hiding most of his power. He was hiding most of what God is, so that people could be with him.

In the Old Testament, many people wrote about this. When John was writing this letter, perhaps he was thinking about people who said they had seen God directly. John wanted to say that no one can see God now. A time will come when believers will be able to see him.

4:13-16

Can a Christian know that God has saved him?

[4:13]

Perhaps John wanted to say here that Christians can know that they will one day live forever in heaven with God. They can know this because they have the Holy Spirit in them.

However, some scholars think that a Christian, one who trusts in Jesus now, can one day reject him. If he does that, they say that Jesus will refuse to save him any longer.

See: Ephesians 1:14

See: Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

Is the Holy Spirit God?

[4:13]

In 4:13, Paul said that God “remains” or “abides” within Christians. It is God who comes to live in a Christian when he believes in Jesus. In Scripture, it is the Holy Spirit who is lives within all Christians (see: 1Corinthians 3:16 and 6:19). The Holy Spirit is God.

See: Indwelling of the Holy Spirit; Trinity; Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

What must a believer accept about Jesus?

[4:15]

In 4:2, John wrote that spirits must accept that Jesus was truly a human being. If they do not say this, this shows that they do not come from God. In 4:15, John wrote that Christians must accept that Jesus is the Son of God. If a person does not accept this, he does not understand who Jesus is.

In this chapter, John wanted people to believe what is true about Christ, that is He is both fully God and fully human. Christians must believe both.

See: Son of God

Who should Christians “remain in this love” towards?

[4:16]

Christians should certainly “remain” or “abide” in love (see: 4:16). That is, Christians should continue to love, but John did not say whom they should love. Perhaps he wanted to say that they should continue to love other Christians. However, fewer scholars think that John was saying that Christians must remain or continue to love Jesus.

See : Abide

4:17-21

How can a Christian have confidence at the time when God will judge everyone?

[4:17]

When John wrote about confidence, boldness, or having a lack of fear, he was thinking about the time when God will judge everyone. Christians who honor God do not need to worry about this happening. They should look forward to Jesus returning to the earth. However, anyone who does not honor God should fear Jesus returning to the earth.

The Jews and the first Christians both believed that God would judge everyone at a future time. Some scholars think that John wanted to say that every Christian will see Jesus. At that time, every Christian will have to explain to him why he lived the way he did in this world. The place where this will happen is the Judgment Seat of God (see: 2 Corinthians 5:10). It is at this time that Jesus will give a reward to every Christian for how he lived in this world.

If Christians obey what John says they should do, they should not fear Jesus when he judges them.

However, other scholars think that John is not talking about a time when Jesus will judge the Christians. Christians do not need to fear that time, because God has punished Jesus for their sins. Instead, Jesus will judge only those who do not believe in him. He will separate them from the Christians. Then he will receive the Christians to himself.

God punished Jesus for Christians because he loved them and promised that he would save them. This is why Christians should trust that Jesus will receive them. God always keeps his promises. Truly, if a person is afraid of Jesus, perhaps this shows that this person is not a Christian at all.

See: 1 John 2:28

See: Day of Judgment

Advice to translators: Scripture talks about how a Christians should not fear God, but also that they should fear God. However, there are two different meanings of the English word “fear.” Christians should not be scared of God, but they should want to respect God and not want to be punished by God.

1 John 4:1

General Information:

John gives a warning against false teachers who teach against Christ's having had a human body and teachers who talk the way those who love the world talk.

Beloved, do not believe

"You people whom I love, do not believe" or "Dear friends, do not believe." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

do not believe every spirit

Here, the word "spirit" refers to a spiritual power or being that gives a person a message or prophecy. Alternate translation: "do not trust every prophet who claims to have a message from a spirit"

test the spirits

Here, the word "spirits" refers to a spiritual power or being that gives a person a message or prophecy. Alternate translation: "think carefully about what the prophet says"

1 John 4:2

has come in the flesh

Here "flesh" represents the human body. Alternate translation: "has come as a human being" or "has come in a physical body"

1 John 4:3

This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and now is already in the world

"These are prophets opposed to Christ, whom you have heard are coming, and now are already in the world"

1 John 4:4

God, children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in [1 John 2:1]

have overcome them

"have not believed the false teachers"

the one who is in you is

"God, who is in you, is"

the one who is in the world

Here "the one" refers to the devil. Here "the world" represents the people of the world. Alternate translation: "the devil who is in the people of the world"

1 John 4:5

They are from the world

"They" refers to the false teachers. "From the world" is in contrast to being from God. "The world" represents all things that oppose God. Alternate translation: "They are of the world"

therefore what they say is from the world

Here "from the world" is in contrast to being from God. Here "the world" represents all things that oppose God. Alternate translation: "therefore what the false teachers say is of the world"

and the world listens to them

The words "the world" are a metonym for people who do not obey God. Alternate translation: "so the people who do not obey God listen to them"

1 John 4:6

General Information:

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1 John 4:7

General Information:

John continues to teach about the new nature. He teaches his readers about God's love and loving one another.

Beloved, let us love

"You people whom I love, let us love" or "Dear friends, let us love." See how you translated "Beloved" in 1 John 2:7.

let us love one another

"believers are to love other believers"

and everyone who loves is born from God and knows God

"and because those who love their fellow believers have become God's children and know him"

for love is from God

"because God causes us to love each other"

born from God

This is a metaphor which means someone has a relationship to God like a child to his father.

1 John 4:8

The person who does not love does not know God, for God is love

The phrase "God is love" a metaphor which means "the character of God is love." Alternate translation: "Those who do not love their fellow believers do not know God, because the character of God is to love people"

1 John 4:9

Because of this ... among us, that God has sent his only Son

"Because of this ... among us: God has sent his only Son." The phrase "Because of this" refers to the phrase "that God has sent his only Son."

the love of God was revealed among us

The noun "love" can be translated as a verb. This phrase can be made active. Alternate translation: "God showed that he loves us"

so that we would live because of him

"to enable us to live eternally because of what Jesus did"

1 John 4:10

In this is love, not that

"The true demonstration of love was not that" or "This is true love: not that

he sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins

By dying on the cross as a sacrifice, Christ satisfied God's wrath against our sin. The phrase "atoning sacrifice" can translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "he sent his Son to be the sacrifice that satisfied his wrath against our sins"

1 John 4:11

Beloved, if

"You people whom I love, if" or "Dear friends, if." See how you translated this in 1 John 2:7.

if God so loved us

"since God loved us in this way"

we also should love one another

"believers are to love other believers"

1 John 4:12

God remains in us

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in [1 John 2:6]

his love is perfected in us

"God's love is complete in us"

1 John 4:13

we remain in him and he in us

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in [1 John 2:6]

and he in us

The word "remains" is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "and he remains in us"

By this we know ... us, because he has given

Your translation may be clearer if you omit either "by this" or "because." Alternate translation: "We know ... us because he gave" or "By this we know ... us: he gave"

because he has given us some of his Spirit

"because he gave us his Spirit" or "because he has put his Holy Spirit in us." This phrase, however, does not imply that God has less of his Spirit after he has given us some.

1 John 4:14

Also, we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world

"And we apostles have seen the Son of God and tell everyone that God the Father has sent his Son to save people on this earth"

Father ... Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

1 John 4:15

Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God

"Anyone who says the truth about Jesus, that he is the Son of God"

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God.

God remains in him and he in God

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in [1 John 2:6]

and he in God

The word "remains" is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: "and he remains in God" (See: Ellipsis)

1 John 4:16

God is love

This is a metaphor which means "the character of God is love." See how you translated this in [1 John 4:8]

the one who remains in this love

"those who continue to love others"

remains in God, and God remains in him

To remain in someone means to continue to have fellowship with him. See how you translated "remains in God" in [1 John 2:6]

1 John 4:17

Because of this, this love has been made perfect among us, so that we will have confidence

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "Because of this" refers back to [1 John 4:16]

this love has been made perfect among us

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has made his love for us complete"

because as he is, just so are we in this world

"because the relationship that Jesus has with God is the same relationship we have with God in this world"

1 John 4:18

Instead, perfect love throws out fear

Here "love" is described as a person with the power to remove fear. God's love is perfect. Alternate translation: "Instead, when our love is complete, we are no longer afraid"

because fear has to do with punishment

"because we would be afraid only if we thought that he would punish us"

But the one who fears has not been made perfect in love

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "But when a person is afraid that God will punish him, his love is not complete"

1 John 4:19

General Information:

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1 John 4:20

hates his brother

"hates a fellow believer"

the one who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen

If two negative statements in a row are confusing, this can be translated differently. Alternate translation: "the one who hates his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen"

1 John 4:21

General Information:

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ULB Translation Questions

1 John 4:1

Why does John warn the believers to not believe every spirit?

John warns the believers because there are many false prophets that have gone out into the world.

1 John 4:2

How can you know if the Spirit of God is speaking?

Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God.

1 John 4:3

What spirit does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh?

The spirit of an antichrist does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh.

1 John 4:4

Who does John say is the greater spirit?

The greater spirit is the one in believers, greater than the spirits of the world.

1 John 4:5

Who does John say is the greater spirit?

The greater spirit is the one in believers, greater than the spirits of the world.

1 John 4:7

What do believers do, which shows they know God, and are like he is?

Believers love one another, which shows they know God, because God is love.

1 John 4:8

What do believers do, which shows they know God, and to be like he is?

Believers love one another, which shows they know God, because God is love.

1 John 4:9

How did God reveal his love for us?

God revealed his love for us by sending his only begotten Son into the world.

For what purpose did the Father send his Son?

The Father sent his Son that we might live through him.

1 John 4:15

What do true believers confess about Jesus?

True believers confess that Jesus is the Son of God.

1 John 4:17

Those who remain in love and in God will have what attitude on the day of judgment?

Those who remain in love and in God will have confidence on the day of judgment.

1 John 4:19

How are we able to love?

We love because God first loved us.

1 John 4:20

What relationship with God does someone have who hates his brother?

Someone who hates his brother cannot love God.

1 John 4:21

Those who love God must also love whom?

Those who love God must also love their brother.

Chapter 5

¹ Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born from God, and whoever loves a father also loves the child born from him. ² This is how we know that we love the children of God: when we love God and obey his commandments. ³ For this is love for God: that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. ⁴ For everyone who is born from God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. ⁵ Who is the one who overcomes the world? The one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. ⁶ This is the one who came by water and blood: Jesus Christ. He came not only by water, but also by water and blood. The Spirit is the one who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. ⁷ For there are three that testify: ⁸ the Spirit, the water, and the blood. These three are in agreement. ^[1]⁹ If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater. For this is the testimony of God that he has testified concerning his Son. ¹⁰ Anyone who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given concerning his Son. ¹¹ And the testimony is this: God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. ¹² The one who has the Son has life. The one who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

¹³ I have written to you these things so that you will know that you have eternal life—to you who believe in the name of the Son of God. ¹⁴ Also, this is the confidence we have before him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. ¹⁵ Also, if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask of him—we know that we have whatever we have asked of him. ¹⁶ If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not result in death, he must pray, and God will give him life. I refer to those whose sin does not result in death. There is a sin that results in death; I am not saying that he should pray about that. ¹⁷ All unrighteousness is sin, but there is sin that does not result in death.

¹⁸ We know that whoever has been born from God does not sin. But the one who was born from God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him. ¹⁹ We know that we are from God, and we know that the whole world lies in the power of the evil one. ²⁰ But we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know him who is true. Also, we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. This one is the true God and eternal life. ²¹ Children, keep yourselves from idols.

Footnotes

5:8 ^[1]Some important and ancient Greek copies read,

1 John 5 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Children born from God

When people believe in Jesus, God makes them his children and gives them eternal life. (See: believe)

Christian living

People who believe in Jesus should obey God's commands and love his children.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

A sin that results in death

This seems to refer to behaviors that will result in a person experiencing spiritual death, that is, to be separated from God forever. (See: death)

"the whole world lies in the power of the evil one"

The phrase "the evil one" refers to Satan. God has allowed him to rule the world, but ultimately God is in control over everything. God keeps his children safe from the evil one. (See: satan)

1 John 5

5:1-5

What must Christians believe about Jesus?

[5:1]

John wrote many things about Jesus. In 1 John 4:2, John wrote that Jesus was a true human being. If anyone does not believe this, he is not truly a Christian. He has rejected Jesus. In this passage, John continued to write about Jesus. John said that Christians must also believe Jesus is the messiah. Jesus is the one whom God had promised to send to Israel. Jesus is the one who will deliver Christians.

See: Messiah (Christ)

Why did John write the metaphor about children?

[5:1]

John used a metaphor to describe Christians. He said that Christians were children. However, he was not writing about children born to their mother and father. Instead, John wanted to say that when anyone believes in Jesus, the Holy Spirit gives that person new life. When this happens, a person is “born” a second time and God becomes that person’s new “father.” God had already created that person, but now for the first time he is that person’s father.

Because all Christians are children of God, they are brothers and sisters to each other. God is father to all Christians, and he loves all of them the same. Because of this, all Christians should love each other.

See: Born Again (New Life, Regeneration)

How does John use “overcomes”?

[5:4]

In Scripture, Christians are described as having won something. This occurs when they believe in Jesus. They have “overcome,” “conquered,” or “defeated” (νικάω/#g3528) the world. This is a metaphor about how Christians have defeated Satan. Satan does not want people to believe in Jesus. These forces are at work on the earth. Why did John write that Christians “have overcome” the world?

John wrote that Christians have “overcome or defeated” (νικάω/#g3528) the world. When John wrote “the world,” he was thinking about all the people who love to do evil and who reject Jesus. Perhaps he was also thinking about Satan, because Satan is the one who tries to get people to sin. Christians defeat Satan when they trust in Jesus and obey him. This is also what John was thinking about when he wrote that Christians overcome the world.

See: 1 John 2:13-14, 4:4

See: World

5:6-12

Why did John write water and blood?

[5:6]

John wrote water and blood. John spoke about these things to make people think about what Jesus did while he was on the earth. Water and blood represented what Jesus did while he was on the earth. John the Baptist baptized Jesus in water. This is when Jesus began to do the work God sent him to do. When Jesus died on the cross, he bled, so the blood represented his death.

Other scholars think that John wrote “water and blood” because false teachers did not believe that Jesus was an actual human being. John said this because people have both water and blood in their bodies.

See: Baptize (Baptism); Baptize (Baptism)

Advice to translators: This may or may not be an issue for people in your local context. Feel free to omit this information if it would not be helpful to the local church.

What did John actually write in 5:7 and 5:8?

[5:7, 5:8]

In some old Greek copies of this letter, 5:7 and 5:8 have more words than in other copies of this letter. In other words, these two verses are longer in these copies. The longer verses have the words “God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.”

However, in most old copies of 1 John, 5:7 and 5:8 are shorter because they do not have these words. Today, when people translate this letter, they usually do not translate these words. But some people translate them and put them inside square brackets ([...]) to show that these words are not in the oldest copies of the letter.

Advice to translators: This may or may not be an issue for people in your local context. Feel free to omit this information if it would not be helpful to the local church.

Who is the Spirit of truth?

[5:7]

See: 1 John 4:6

5:13-17

When does God give Christians the things they ask him for?

[5:14]

When Christians pray to God, he gives them what they ask him for if:

(1) They pray for things that he wants to give them (2) They pray for things that God wants to help them with.

However, God does not give Christians everything they ask for.

See: Will of God

When John wrote about sins leading to death, what was he writing about?

[5:16]

Perhaps when John wrote about sins not “resulting in” or “leading to” death, he was writing about sins that can cause a person to die if he commits them. This is because God punishes that person immediately. Some scholars think this.

Other scholars think that John was writing about sins that God will punish by putting the sinner far away from himself forever. This is what the Scripture writers often call death. However, these scholars do not think that a Christian can sin in this way. People who sin in this way commit the sin that God will not forgive (see: Matthew 12:21-32; Mark 3:28-29; Luke 12:10).

See: John 17:9; Romans 6:23; James 5:19-20

5:18-21

How did John end this letter?

[5:18, 5:19, 5:20, 5:21]

Many scholars think that in these final verses John wanted people to think about everything he just wrote. Therefore, he said the same things in the strongest.

Did John write about people who sin many times, or was he writing about people who sin only one time?

[5:18]

John may have written about people who sin many times or people who sin only one time. Some people may have asked if Christians are able to live without sinning. All Christians can live without sinning, but no Christian does.

Some scholars think that Christians cannot keep doing the same sin many times. Perhaps this is what John wanted to say. Many translators think this, so this is how they translate this verse. Other scholars think that John wrote about even one sin.

Advice to translators: Many translators think that John wants to say that anyone born from God does not continue to sin or make a habit of sinning. Other translations think that John “sin” without saying anything else. This content may need to be adapted to follow your local translation.

What are idols?

[5:21]

Idols are false gods. Often people made statues or drawings that represented those false gods. In ancient times, most people worshiped false gods instead of Yahweh, the God of Israel.

John taught that if a person worshipped anything other than the true God, he worshipped an idol. This is because when a person sins, he is not obeying God; he is obeying something else.

When John wrote that the Christians should keep themselves from idols, perhaps he wanted to tell them not to sin, or perhaps he wanted to tell them not to worship actual idols.

See: Idolatry (Idol)

1 John 5:1

General Information:

John continues to teach his readers about God's love and the love believers are to have because they have this new nature from God.

is born from God

"is a child of God"

1 John 5:2

This is how we know that we love the children of God: when we love God and obey his commandments.

"When we love God and do what he commands, then we know that we love his children"

1 John 5:3

For this is love for God: that we keep his commandments

"Because when we do what he commands, that is true love for God"

his commandments are not burdensome

"what he commands is not difficult"

burdensome

"heavy" or "crushing" or "difficult"

1 John 5:4

everyone who is born from God overcomes

"all children of God overcome"

overcomes the world

"has victory over the world," "succeeds against the world," or "refuses to do the evil things unbelievers do"

the world

This passage uses "the world" to refer to all the sinful people and the evil systems in the world. Alternate translation: "everything in the world that is against God"

And this is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith

"And this is what gives us the power to resist whatever would lead us to sin against God: our faith" or "And it is our faith that gives us the power to resist whatever would lead us to sin against God"

1 John 5:5

Who is the one who overcomes the world?

John used this question to introduce something he wanted to teach. Alternate translation: "I will tell you who overcomes the world:"

The one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God

This does not refer to a specific person but to anyone who believes this. Alternate translation: "Anyone who believes that Jesus is the Son of God"

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God.

1 John 5:6

Connecting Statement:

John teaches about Jesus Christ and what God said about him.

This is the one who came by water and blood: Jesus Christ

"Jesus Christ is the one who came by water and blood." Here "water" is probably a metonym for the baptism of Jesus, and "blood" stands for Jesus's death on the cross. Alternate translation: "God showed that Jesus Christ is his son at Jesus's baptism and his death on the cross"

He came not only by water, but also by water and blood

Here "water" is probably a metonym for the baptism of Jesus, and "blood" stands for Jesus's death on the cross. Alternate translation: "God did not show us Jesus was his son just through his baptism, but through his baptism and his death on the cross"

1 John 5:7

General Information:

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1 John 5:8

General Information:

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1 John 5:9

If we receive the testimony of men

The idiom to "receive the testimony" means to believe what another person testifies concerning something that he has seen. The abstract noun "testimony" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "If we believe what men testify" or "If we believe what men say about what they have seen"

the testimony of God is greater

the testimony of God is more important and more reliable

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

1 John 5:10

Anyone who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself

"Whoever believes in Jesus knows for sure Jesus is the Son of God"

has made him out to be a liar

"has called God a liar"

because he has not believed the testimony that God has given concerning his Son

"because he has not believed that God has told the truth about his Son"

1 John 5:11

And the testimony is this

"This is what God says"

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. Here "life" refers to being alive spiritually. See how you translated this in [1 John 1:1]

this life is in his Son

"this life is through his Son" or "we will live forever if we are joined with his Son" or "we will live forever if we are united with his Son"

Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

1 John 5:12

The one who has the Son has life. The one who does not have the Son of God does not have life

Being in a close relationship to the Son is spoken of as having the Son. Alternate translation: "He who believes in the Son of God has eternal life. He who does not believe in the Son of God does not have eternal life"

1 John 5:13

General Information:

This begins the end of John's letter. He tells his readers the last purpose for his letter and gives them some final teachings.

these things

"this letter"

to you who believe in the name of the Son of God

Here "name" is a metonym for the Son of God. Alternate translation: "to you who trust in the Son of God"

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God.

1 John 5:14

this is the confidence we have before him, that

The abstract noun "confidence" can be stated as "confident." Alternate translation: "we are confident in God's presence because we know that"

if we ask anything according to his will

"if we ask for the things that God desires"

1 John 5:15

we know that we have whatever we have asked of him

"we know that we will receive that for which we have asked God"

1 John 5:16

his brother

"a fellow believer"

life

The word "life" throughout this letter refers to more than physical life. Here "life" refers to being alive spiritually. See how you translated this in [1 John 1:1]

death

This refers to eternal death, that is, eternity spent away from God's presence.

1 John 5:17

General Information:

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1 John 5:18

Connecting Statement:

John closes his letter, reviewing what he has said about the new nature of believers, which cannot sin, and he reminds them to keep themselves from idols (5:21).

the evil one cannot harm him

The phrase "the evil one" refers to Satan, the devil.

1 John 5:19

the whole world lies in the power of the evil one

Lying in someone's power represents being controlled or ruled by him. Alternate translation: "the whole world is controlled by the evil one"

the whole world lies in the power

Here "world" represents all the people who rebel against God. Alternate translation: "all the people of the world are under the power"

1 John 5:20

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God.

has given us understanding

"has enabled us to understand the truth"

we are in him who is true

Being "in" someone represents having a close relationship with him, that is being united to him or belonging to him. The phrase "him who is true" refers to the true God, and the phrase "in his Son Jesus Christ" explains how we are in him who is true. Alternate translation: "we are united to him who is true by being united to his Son Jesus Christ"

him who is true

"the true one" or "the real God"

This one is the true God

Possible meanings are 1) "This one" refers to Jesus Christ, or 2) "This one" refers to the one true God.

and eternal life

He is called "eternal life" becasue he gives us eternal life. Alternate translation: "and the one who gives eternal life"

1 John 5:21

Children

John was an elderly man and their leader. He used this expression to show his love for them. See how you translated this in [1 John 2:1]

keep yourselves from idols

"stay away from idols" or "do not worship idols"

ULB Translation Questions

1 John 5:3

How do we demonstrate that we love God?

We demonstrate that we love God when we keep his commandments.

1 John 5:4

What is the victory that has overcome the world?

The victory that has overcome the world is our faith.

1 John 5:6

By what two things did Jesus Christ come?

Jesus Christ came by water and by blood.

1 John 5:7

Which three things bear witness to Jesus Christ?

The Spirit, the water, and the blood all bear witness to Jesus Christ.

1 John 5:8

Which three things bear witness to Jesus Christ?

The Spirit, the water, and the blood all bear witness to Jesus Christ.

1 John 5:9

What does anyone who does not believe the testimony of God concerning his Son, make God?

Anyone who does not believe the testimony of God concerning his Son makes God a liar.

1 John 5:10

What does anyone who does not believe the testimony of God concerning his Son, make God?

Anyone who does not believe the testimony of God concerning his Son makes God a liar.

1 John 5:11

What has God given us in his Son?

God has given us eternal life in his Son.

1 John 5:14

What confidence do believers have before God?

Believers have confidence that if they ask anything according to God's will, he hears them.

1 John 5:16

What must a believer do who sees his brother committing a sin not to death?

A believer who sees his brother committing a sin not to death must pray that God will give his brother life.

1 John 5:17

What is all unrighteousness?

All unrighteousness is sin.

1 John 5:19

Where does the whole world lie?

The whole world lies in the evil one.

1 John 5:20

Who is the true God?

The true God is the Father of Jesus Christ.

1 John 5:21

From what must believers keep themselves?

Believers must keep themselves from idols.

Book: 2 John

Introduction to 2 John

Overview

Although this letter is usually called “Second John,” it was probably not the second letter that John wrote. However, it was the second letter wrote to a certain church. This first letter he wrote to this church is called “First John.” In First John, John told people to reject certain false teachers. Some people obeyed him. Other people did not do the things John told them to do, so John this letter, known as Second John. In this letter, he told the Christians to separate themselves further from these false teachers.

See: Fellowship;Heresy

Who wrote this letter?

The letter said the “elder (πρεσβύτερος/g4245)” wrote this letter, but it did not say who wrote it. However, scholars think that the apostle John was the “elder.” When this letter was written, John was very old and a leader in the church. This is because it says many of the same things in the same way as the gospel of John and the book of First John.

See: Elder

Who did John write to?

This letter was written to a woman and her children (see: 1:1). In this verse, the word “lady” was a respectful way to address a woman. Some scholars think that this letter is simply addressed to a certain woman and her family. Other scholars think that John did not write to a certain woman. Instead, John wrote to a certain church. This is because Scripture often spoke about the church as if it were a woman, that is, the “Jesus’ bride.”

Who were the people John spoke against?

John spoke against certain false teachers. They taught the wrong things about Jesus. Perhaps they taught that Jesus was God but that he was not really a human with a physical body on earth. Some scholars also think that they also believed that the physical world was evil.

What did John wrote about in his letter?

Hospitality

Hospitality is being friendly towards a guest and helping him. When someone is away from their home or not part of your family, then Christians are to be friendly to them. In ancient Israel, people were expected to welcome others and show them hospitality. John wanted Christians to treat guests well and welcome them into their homes. This is because false teachers are dangerous.

Commandments

John wrote about the “truth (αληθεια/g4245)” in this letter. The commands that Christians must defend and obey are the “truth.” When Christians obey God’s commands, they obey God. When they obey God, it is because they love God.

Abiding or Remaining in Jesus

John often wrote about Christians “abiding (μένω/g3306)” or “remaining” in Jesus. John used this word in different ways: 1. The things that Jesus said are to "remain" in Christians. 1. Christians are said to "remain" in Jesus and in God. 1. Christians are to “remain” in Jesus' love. 1. God the Father "remains" in Jesus. 1. Jesus “remains” in God the Father. 1. Jesus “remains” in Christians. 1. The Holy Spirit “remains" in Christians.

Advice to translators: Many translators will find it impossible to represent “remaining” in their languages in exactly the same way as John.

Why did John wrote this letter?

John wrote this letter to tell Christians not to welcoming certain false teachers. While Christians must love others and welcome them into their homes, they are not to do this for these certain false teachers. This is because these false teachers were dangerous and they were teaching the wrong things to Christians. John also wanted Christians to reject the things people taught or said that were not the same as the things written about in Scripture.

Outline of 2 John

Greeting (1:1-3)
Encouragement and the greatest commandment (1:4-6)
Warning about false teachers (1:7–11)
Greetings from fellow believers (1:12-13)

2 John

Chapter 1

¹ From the elder to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in truth—and not only I, but also all those who have known the truth— ² because of the truth that remains in us and will be with us forever.

³ Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

⁴ I rejoice greatly that I have found some of your children walking in truth, just as we have received this commandment from the Father. ⁵ Now I plead with you, lady—not as though I were writing to you a new commandment, but one that we have had from the beginning—that we should love one another. ⁶ This is love, that we should walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, just as you heard from the beginning, that you should walk in it. ⁷ For many deceivers have gone out into the world, and they do not confess that Jesus Christ came in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. ⁸ Look to yourselves, that you do not lose the things for which we have labored, but so that you may receive a full reward. ⁹ Whoever goes on ahead and does not remain in the teaching of Christ does not have God. The one who remains in the teaching, this one has both the Father and the Son. ¹⁰ If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house and do not greet him. ¹¹ For the one who speaks a greeting to him participates in his evil deeds.

¹² I have many things to write to you, but I did not wish to write them with paper and ink. However, I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that our joy will be complete.

¹³ The children of your chosen sister greet you.

2 John 1 Commentary

1:1-3

Who are the “elder (πρεσβύτερος/g4245)” and the “chosen (ἐκλεκτός /g1588)” lady?

[1:1]

See: Introduction

See: Elder

How does one love in truth?

[1:1]

Christian love is different than many other types of love. It is similar to the love family members show to one another. A Christian should put the needs of others above his own desires. It is a strong or loyal bond between people. Perhaps this is what John wanted to say that Christians should “truly” love others when he wrote Christians are to love “in truth (αληθεια/g225)” or “with sincerity.” Other scholars think that John wanted Christians to love others in a certain way. This love is “true,” that is true to God. They think that John wanted Christians to love God by doing the things that are taught in Scripture.

Is the truth a metaphor for Jesus?

[1:1, 1:2]

Most scholars think this passage contains several different metaphors. Christians were spoken about as if they were a “chosen (ἐκλεκτός/g1588)” or “elect” lady. Perhaps this is a certain group of Christians. Or perhaps it is all Christians in a given area. Or perhaps it is a certain woman.

John also said Christians are people who know the truth. John refers to Jesus as the “truth (αληθεια g225) (see: John 14:6). Because of this, John may have spoke about all Christians or a certain group of Christians.

In this passage, John also spoke about Christians having a “true” knowledge about Jesus. Perhaps John spoke about the “true” things that God told mankind about himself.

See: Metaphor

1:4-11

Who are the children?

[1:4]

The children in 1:4 were the children of the lady John talked about in 1:1. They think that John spoke about new Christians in this church. Other scholars think that the lady is a certain woman, and John talked about her children.

Who are the false teachers?

[1:7]

John calls certain people “deceivers,” that is, false teachers. However, John did not write what they taught. Perhaps, they taught that Jesus was not a man or that God did not come to earth as a man named Jesus. They also taught these things because another false teacher gave them permission to teach. This was the antichrist. An antichrist is someone who opposes Jesus.

In this passage, some scholars think that John talked about a certain person called the antichrist, that is, the devil. He rules the earth and opposes Jesus.

Other scholars think this is the “spirit” of the antichrist who is still to come, that is, people who oppose Jesus. These people share the same goals as the devil. Because of this, they do the same types of things that the antichrist does.

Other scholars think John wanted to insult certain people. It was insulting because he called the devil.

See: Satan (The Devil);Satan (The Devil)

How does one remain in Jesus?

[1:9]

John often wrote about Christians “remaining (μένω/g3306)” or “abiding” in or with Jesus. This is because Christians are united with Jesus in a special way.

In 1:9, John wrote that Christians “remain” in the things Jesus taught. Some scholars think John wanted to say that Christians cannot “leave” Jesus’ teachings, that is, they cannot teach things that are different from the things that Jesus has taught.

Others scholars think that a Christian can stop teaching the things that Jesus taught. If he stops teaching the things that Jesus taught, then God will not reward him. This is because God only rewards Christians who honor him (see: 1:8).

See: Introduction

What have Christians worked for or achieved?

[1:9]

Christians “work (ἐργάζομαι/g2038)” for something. Some scholars think that Christians work hard so that they will one day live together with God in heaven forever. Other scholars think that Christians work hard to get rewards from God.

Should Christians respect other religions?

[1:10]

In 1:10, John commanded Christians not to welcome certain people into their homes. He told them not to even greet them. This would have been shocking to John’s readers. In the ancient world, it was very insulting not to greet someone who came to your home. Some scholars think that John wrote this because certain people who came to the homes of Christians were false teachers. These false teachers said that they were Christians. Perhaps they kept asking Christians for help so that they could teach them the wrong things.

Other scholars think that John did not write to a certain religious teacher. However, many religious teachers do not teach the right things about God.

All false teachers do not teach the right things about God, even if they say, “I am a Christian.” Because of this, false teachers are dangerous to people. God wants people to know about him and live with him in heaven forever. If people do not believe the right things about God, they might not be able to live together with God in heaven. When John wrote about Christians not welcoming these people into their homes, he did not want them to start believing in things that the false teachers taught. However, Christians also need to speak against the false teachers in a loving way (see: Ephesians 4:5).

1:12-13

Why did John want to talk to these Christians in person?

[1:12]

John wanted to talk to these Christians when he was with them. Perhaps he did this so that other people could not read his letter and know who he wrote to. Some scholars think that John did this to protect Christians. At this time, people wanted to hurt or kill Christians. Therefore, John made a very short letter and only wrote about things that could not wait until he saw them.

Perhaps he did this to be polite. There may have been things to talk with these Christians about that it would not have been polite to talk about in a letter.

Perhaps John was going to visit these Christians in the near future. Therefore, he wrote a short letter and waited for his visit to speak with them. Because of this, 1:12 was a normal greeting. Other scholars believe this is a just a common greeting.

Who is the sister John talked about?

[1:13]

John talked about a “chosen (ἐκλεκτός/g1588)” or “elect” sister. This is the sister of the chosen lady (see: 1:1). Perhaps John was writing from another church and said that this church was the “sister” of the church he wrote. Fewer scholars think that John wrote to a certain woman and was with this woman’s sister.

The Meaning of Greek Words

g225 (αληθεια) Truth Something that is αληθεια is true. It often describes something, that is, an αληθεια is a thing. Therefore, an αληθεια is something that is true However, it is also used in different ways with this same type of meaning. It is used to speak a certain thing that is true. It is used to speak about many or all things that are true. It is sometimes used in this way to speak about all true things or teachings about God. It is also used to speak about the gospel. It is used to describe a person. The person who is αληθεια does not lie or lives in the right way.

See: Gospel

g1588 (ἐκλεκτός) When someone has been ἐκλεκτός, they have been chosen or selected.

This word is often used to speak about God choosing someone or something. God only chose certain people and certain things. This was a great honor. God chose Israel, angels, and Christians.

g2038 (ἐργάζομαι) When someone ἐργάζομαι, they work very hard at something. They may work at their job or work to complete or finish something. Sometimes translators choose to translate this word as “earn” because someone’s hark work can cause something to happen or result in a reward (see: 2 John 1:8).

g3306 (μένω) Stay, remain, abide When someone μένω in a place, they do not leave that place. It is also used in other ways. However, scholars do not agree about what it means. (1) Someone μένω in Jesus. Some scholars think this means that Christians can stop being friends with God and will not live together with God in heaven forever. More scholars think this means that Christians stop doing the things that Jesus wants them to do, that is, they do not live in a way that honors God. μένω is also used to say that some people stop teaching the things Jesus and the apostles taught.

g4245 (πρεσβύτερος) An elder, that is, someone who is old. Often, a πρεσβύτερος was an old man. A title given to a leader in the church, a πρεσβύτερος was a mature Christian, that is, a Christian who honored God.

This word is often used as a technical term for a position in the church. Some scholars think that this is the same position as G4245 (πρεσβύτερος). Other scholars think that these are different positions, that is, these leaders serve the church in different ways.

2 John 1:1

General Information:

Tradition identifies the apostle John as the writer of this letter. Though possibly addressed to an individual woman, because he writes that they should "love one another," this is probably to a church. All instances of "you" and "your" in this letter are plural unless noted otherwise. In this letter, John includes himself and his readers by using the word "us" and "our."

From the elder to the chosen lady and her children

This is how letters were started. The name of the author can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "I, John the elder, am writing this letter to the chosen lady and her children"

the elder

This refers to John, the apostle and disciple of Jesus. He refers to himself as "elder" either because of his old age or because he is a leader in the church.

to the chosen lady and her children

This probably refers to a congregation and the believers that belong to it.

2 John 1:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

2 John 1:3

Father ... Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

in truth and love

The word "truth" describes "love." Possibly the phrase means "in true love."

2 John 1:4

your children

The word "your" is singular.

just as we have received this commandment from the Father

"just as God the Father commanded us"

2 John 1:5

you, lady ... writing to you

These instances of "you" are singular.

I were writing to you a new commandment, but one that we have had from the beginning

Here, "beginning" refers to "when we first believed." Alternate translation: "I were commanding you to do something new, but what Christ commanded us to do when we first believed"

beginning—that we should love one another

This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: "beginning. He commanded that we should love one another"

2 John 1:6

This is the commandment, just as you heard from the beginning, that you should walk in it

Conducting our lives according to God's commands is spoken of as if we were walking in them. The word "it" refers to love. "And he has commanded you, since you first believed, to love one another"

2 John 1:7

Connecting Statement:

John warns his readers of deceivers, reminds them to remain in Christ's teaching, and warns them to stay away from those who do not remain in Christ's teaching.

For many deceivers have gone out into the world

"For many false teachers have left the congregation" or "For many deceivers are in the world"

many deceivers

"many false teachers" or "many imposters"

Jesus Christ came in the flesh

Coming in the flesh is a metonym for being a real person. Alternate translation: "Jesus Christ came as a real human"

This is the deceiver and the antichrist

"They are the ones who deceive others and oppose Christ himself"

2 John 1:8

Look to yourselves

"Watch out" or "Pay attention" or "Be on guard"

lose the things

"lose your future rewards in heaven"

the things for which we have labored

Another possible meaning is, "the things that we have accomplished."

full reward

"complete reward in heaven"

2 John 1:9

Whoever goes on ahead

This refers to a person who claims to know more about God and truth than everyone else. Alternate translation: "Whoever claims to know more about God" or "Whoever disobeys the truth"

goes on ahead

Some modern translations read, "transgresses."

does not have God

"does not belong to God"

The one who remains in the teaching, this one has both the Father and the Son

"Someone who follows Christ's teaching belongs to both the Father and the Son"

the Father and the Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

2 John 1:10

receive him into your house

Here this means to welcome him and treat him with honor in order to build a relationship with him.

2 John 1:11

participates in his evil deeds

"shares with him in his evil deeds" or "helps him in his evil deeds"

2 John 1:12

General Information:

The words "you" in verse 12 are singular.

Connecting Statement:

John's letter closes with his desire to visit his readers and gives greetings from another church.

I did not wish to write them with paper and ink

John does not wish to write these other things but would like to come say the words to them. He is not saying that he would write them with something other than paper and ink.

I hope to come to you

John wants to visit his readers but he does not know with certainty that he would be able to visit them. Alternate translation: "I plan to come to you" or "I want to come to you"

speak face to face

"Speak face to face" here is an idiom, meaning "to speak in their presence." Alternate translation: "speak in your presence" or "speak to you in person"

2 John 1:13

General Information

The word "your" in verse 13 is plural.

The children of your chosen sister

Here John speaks of this other church as if it were a sister to the readers' church and the believers that are a part of that church as if they were that church's children. This emphasizes that all believers are a spiritual family.

ULB Translation Questions

2 John 1:1

By what title does the writer John introduce himself in this letter?

John introduces himself as the elder.

To whom is this letter written?

The letter is written to the elect lady and her children.

2 John 1:3

From whom does John say grace, mercy, and peace come?

John says grace, mercy, and peace come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ his Son.

2 John 1:4

Why is John rejoicing?

John is rejoicing because he has found some of the lady's children walking in truth.

2 John 1:5

What commandment does John say they have had from the beginning?

John says that they have had the commandment to love one another from the beginning.

2 John 1:6

What does John say that love is?

John says that love is to walk according to God's commandments.

2 John 1:7

What does John call those who do not confess that Jesus Christ came in the flesh?

John calls those who do not confess that Jesus Christ came in the flesh the deceiver and the antichrist.

2 John 1:8

What does John tell the believers to be careful not to do?

John tells the believers to be careful not to lose the things for which they have worked.

2 John 1:10

What should believers do about teachers who do not bring the true teaching about Christ?

Believers should not welcome them into their homes, and they should not even greet them.

2 John 1:11

Why should a believer refuse to greet a teacher who does not teach the truth about Christ?

Because by greeting such a teacher, the believer participates in the teacher’s evil deeds.

2 John 1:12

What does John hope to do in the future?

John hopes to come and speak face to face with the elect lady.

Book: 3 John

Introduction to 3 John

Overview

There are three letters John wrote that are in Scripture. Some scholars think that each letter was written to the same church over a period of time. They think John heard about the church, then wrote a letter. After a while, he heard about the church again and wrote a letter. Then, he heard about the church and wrote this letter. In his first letter, John told the Christians to reject the things that the false teachers taught. Some people did not obey the things that John taught. Therefore, John told the Christians not to welcome or be friends with the false teachers. In this letter, John wanted Gaius to welcome Demetrius. This is because another church leader refused to welcome Demetrius and other people who were visiting the church.

In his first letter, John wanted Christians to welcome other people who visited their church. However, the Christians welcomed false teachers. Therefore, John told them not to be friends with the false teachers in the same way they were friends with other Christians.

Then in his second letter, John told the Christians to reject the false teachers. They were also to separate themselves from these false teachers. However, these Christians stopped being friends with anyone they did not know. In his third letter, John wanted the Christians to welcome other Christians they did not know.

Fewer scholars think that John wrote each letter to a different church. However, they still think that John wrote this letter to tell some Christians to welcome other Christians who they did not know.

Who wrote this letter?

The “elder (πρεσβύτερος/g4245)” wrote this letter. This means that the author was old or was a leader within the church. However, the name of the author is not in this letter. In the Ancient Near East, a person could be considered “old” after they were 40 years of age. Most scholars think the apostle John wrote this book. Scholars think that the apostle John lived to be very old, perhaps 90 years of age. Also, John wrote many of the same things in this letter and the gospel of John.

See: Ancient Near East

Who did John write to?

This letter was written to Gaius. Scholars do not know much about this man. He is not written about anywhere else in Scripture. John loved him. John could have also written to Diotrephes and Demetrius. This is because John also wrote about them. Like 2 John, John also wrote this letter to help a certain church.

What did John write about in his letter?

Helping people who are away from their home

In the Ancient Near East, it was important for a person to be friends with anyone who was away from their home. A person was to help these people if they needed to be helped. However, John did not want Christians to help false teachers.

See: Ancient Near East

Why did John write this letter?

John wanted to tell Gaius what to do. This is why he wrote this letter. Scholars also think that a certain false teacher was about to lead Gaius’ church. They think that John wanted to stop this because Diotrephes did not honor God and he did not help the church. Because of this, they were not able to help certain Christian teachers who visited them.

Outline of 3 John

Introduction (1:1)
Helping people (1:2-8)
Diotrephes and Demetrius (1:9-12)
Conclusion (1:13-14)

3 John

Chapter 1

¹ The elder to beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth.

² Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be healthy, just as it is well with your soul. ³ For I rejoiced greatly when brothers came and bore witness to your truth, just as you walk in truth. ⁴ I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my children walk in the truth.

⁵ Beloved, you practice faithfulness whenever you labor for the brothers and for strangers ⁶ who have borne witness of your love in the presence of the church. You do well to send them off on their journey in a manner worthy of God, ⁷ because it was for the sake of the name that they went out, taking nothing from the Gentiles. ⁸ We therefore should welcome such as these so that we will be fellow workers for the truth.

⁹ I wrote something to the congregation, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not receive us. ¹⁰ So if I come, I will call attention to the deeds he is doing, falsely accusing us with wicked words. Not satisfied with that, he not only refused to welcome the brothers himself, but he also stops those who want to welcome them and drives them out of the church. ¹¹ Beloved, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the evildoer has not seen God. ¹² Demetrius received a good testimony from everyone and by the truth itself. We also testify about him, and you know that our testimony is true.

¹³ I had many things to write to you, but I do not wish to write them to you with pen and ink. ¹⁴ But I hope to see you soon, and we will speak face to face. ¹⁵ May peace be with you. The friends greet you. Greet our friends there by name.

3 John 1 Commentary

1:1-4

How did John begin this letter?

[1:1]

The first verse is a type of greeting. Many letters in the Ancient Near East began in the same way. John the Elder said that he wrote this letter John also said that he wrote it to his friend Gaius.

See: Ancient Near East

When John wrote, “whom I love in truth,” what did he want to say?

[1:1]

John wrote that Christians are to love in “truth (αληθεια /g0225).” Perhaps John wanted to say that he loved Gaius truly, that is, he was not lying when he wrote this. This is what some scholars think. However, other scholars think John loved Gaius because John knew the truth, that is, because Jesus is truly God’s Son. What God says in the Bible is true; it is why John loved Gaius. It is also why John obeyed God.

Advice to translators: If your context is familiar with the concept of the prosperity gospel, then this can be substituted for the phrase “about wealth.”

Who is Gaius?

[1:1]

Gaius was a man who honored God. In Verse 2, John talked about Gaius’ “health.” Perhaps Gaius was sick or perhaps this was the way people greeted other people. Also, Many scholars believe there was more than one man in scripture with the name of Gaius.

Some Christians also think that John wanted to talk to Gaius about money. These Christians believe God wants Christians to be rich or successful in everything they do. They also believe God promised Christians that they will have everything they want if they obey him. Most scholars do not believe these things.

See: Acts 19:29, 20:4; Romans 16:23; 1 Corinthians 1:14

How did John use the word “truth”?

[1:1, 1:3, 1:4]

John used the word “truth (αληθεια/g0255)” many times and in many different ways in this letter.

In verse 1, John talked about someone loving someone else “in truth.” The truly, greatly, or really love someone, that is, they love someone as much as they can.
In verse 2, John talked about some who “truly” loves God, that is, they obey God. They “walk in truth.” They live in the way that Jesus wanted them to live.
John also said that Jesus was the “truth” (see: John 14:6). He may speak about Jesus in the same way in this letter.

1:5-8

What is hospitality?

[1:5]

Hospitality is showing kindness to visitors, strangers, or those in need. Hospitality was very important to the Jewish people and others living in the Ancient Near East (see: 2 John 1:10-11). John asks his readers to show hospitality to Christians, but not to false teachers.

See: Hospitable (Hospitality); Hospitable (Hospitality)

How should Christians support a ministry?

[1:6]

This passage explained to a church how a travelling teacher or missionary should be supported. It also explains how people should be given money to certain leaders in the church. During this time, there were few Christian leaders so they had to travel long distances to visit different churches. They needed some money from the churches to help them travel so they could continue to serve God in this way.

Some scholars think that these church leaders should not to accept money from Gentiles, that is, from people who were not Christians. Other scholars think John talked about church leaders not taking money from the non-Christians who they were trying to get to believe in Jesus. They think that John reject this because many other religious teachers did this in the Ancient Near East.

See: Ancient Near East

1:9-10

What did John previously write to the church?

[1:9]

John wrote three letters or more. It is not clear which letter John talked about in #v9. John may have been writing about Second John or another letter that is lost.

What was Diotrephes doing?

[1:9]

These verses could be a metaphor showing that Diotrephes did not have humility. He was a leader in Gaius’ church, but Diotrephes was not a good leader. Diotrephes may have wanted to be seen as the greatest person and tried to force others to do what he wanted done in the church. This was not a not a way to honor God. John wrote that Diotrephes needed to be corrected. He did not accept what John and the apostles taught. Diotrephes have spoken against them. Perhaps he taught that God did not give the apostles permission to teach others. Because of this, Diotrephes rejected God.

See: Apostle

1:11-12

Who was with John?

It is not clear who was with John when he wrote this letter. Some scholars think John was with the other apostles. Other scholars think John was with other people when he wrote the letter. Fewer scholars think that John was alone when he wrote this letter.

Advice to translators: Different cultures may have different ways to describe removing someone removing people from the church. Some now call this “excommunication.”

Does everyone who does good things belong to God?

[1:11]

John often talked about belonging to God. Some scholars think that verse 11 is about those who do good things and the things that God wants them to do. When someone does the wrong thing or something that God does not want them to do, John said that they are “of the world” and “of the devil.” Those who do not want to do evil things do not belong to God. However, John taught that if Christians decide to do what God wants, they belonged to God.

While John tried to help Christians, he may have also been insulting Diotrephes. Perhaps this verse may be talking about Diotrephes and what he did. If this is true, then John said Diotrephes was evil and he did not think that Diotrephes was a Christian. This is because Christians do good things because they love God and do the things that God wants them to do. People who are not Christians do things for the wrong reasons.

1:13-15

What is the last verse about?

[1:15]

Verse 15 is end of John’s letter. This was a common way of ending a letter in the ancient Near East. It was a personal greeting and closing. John wanted to visit the church soon so the letter was not long.

Why does John use the word “friend”?

[1:15]

Some scholars think John spoke about Christians when he said “friends.” They think that Christians called each other friends. Perhaps this was because Jesus died for his friends (see: John 15:13). Other scholars think John was speaking about the friends of Gaius. Perhaps he greeted Gaius’ friends.

See: John 15:14-15

The Meaning of Greek Words

g1544 (ἐκβάλλω) To remove, toG throw out, to force someone to leave a group of people When someone is ἐκβάλλω from a group of people, they are removed from the group of people and they are not allowed to return. This word is used when speaking about the church.

3 John 1:1

General Information:

This is a personal letter from John to Gaius. All instances of "you" and "your" refer to Gaius and are singular.

The elder

This refers to John, the apostle and disciple of Jesus. He refers to himself as "elder" either because of his old age or because he is a leader in the church. The name of the author can be made explicit: "I, John the elder, am writing."

Gaius

This is a fellow believer to whom John is writing this letter.

whom I love in truth

"whom I truly love"

3 John 1:2

all may go well with you and that you may be healthy

"you may do well in all things and be healthy"

just as it is well with your soul

"just as you are doing well spiritually"

3 John 1:3

brothers came

"fellow believers came." These people were probably all male.

you walk in truth

Walking on a path is a metaphor for how a person lives his life. Alternate translation: "you are living your life according to God's truth"

3 John 1:4

my children

John speaks of those he taught to believe in Jesus as though they were his children. This emphasizes his love and concern for them. It could also be that he himself led them to the Lord. Alternate translation: "my spiritual children"

3 John 1:5

Connecting Statement:

John's purpose in writing this letter is to compliment Gaius in the way he took care of traveling Bible teachers; then he talks about two people, one evil and one good.

Beloved

Here this is used as a term of endearment for a fellow believer.

you practice faithfulness

"you are doing what is faithful to God" or "you are being loyal to God"

labor for the brothers and for strangers

"help fellow believers and those you do not know"

3 John 1:6

You do well to send them

John is thanking Gaius for his normal practice of helping these believers.

3 John 1:7

because it was for the sake of the name that they went out

Here "the name" refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: "for they have gone out to tell people about Jesus"

taking nothing

receiving no gifts or help

the Gentiles

Here "Gentiles" means non-Jews who do not believe in Christ.

3 John 1:8

General Information:

Here the word "we" refers to John and those with him, and possibly includes all believers.

so that we will be fellow workers for the truth

"so that we will cooperate with them in announcing God's truth to people"

3 John 1:9

General Information:

The word "us" refers to John and those with him and does not include Gaius.

congregation

This refers to Gaius and the group of believers who met together to worship God.

Diotrephes

He was a member of the congregation.

who loves to be first among them

"who loves to be the most important one among them" or "who loves to act as though he's their leader"

3 John 1:10

falsely accusing us with wicked words

"and how he says evil things about us that certainly are not true"

refused to welcome the brothers

"did not welcome the fellow believers"

stops those who want to welcome them

"stops those who want to welcome the believers"

drives them out of the church

"he forces them to leave the congregation"

3 John 1:11

Beloved

Here this is used as a term of endearment for a fellow believer. See how you translated this in 3 John 1:5.

do not imitate what is evil

"do not copy the evil things that people do"

but what is good

There are words left out but they are understood. Alternate translation: "but imitate what is good" or "but imitate the good things that people do"

is of God

"belongs to God"

has not seen God

"does not belong to God" or "does not believe in God"

3 John 1:12

General Information:

Here "we" refers to John and those with him and does not include Gaius.

Demetrius received a good testimony from everyone

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "All who know Demetrius testify that he is a good man" or "Every believer who knows Demetrius speaks well of him"

Demetrius

This is probably a man whom John wants Gaius and the congregation to welcome when he comes to visit.

by the truth itself

"the truth itself speaks well of him." Here "truth" is described as a person speaking. Alternate translation: "everyone who knows the truth knows he is a good person"

We also testify about him

What John is confirming is implied and can be made specific here. Alternate translation: "We also testify about Demetrius" or "We also speak well of Demetrius"

3 John 1:13

General Information:

This is the end of John's letter to Gaius. He gives some final remarks and closes with a greeting.

I do not wish to write them to you with pen and ink

John does not wish to write these other things at all. He is not saying that he would write them with something other than pen and ink.

3 John 1:14

I hope to see you soon

John wants to visit him, but he does not know with certainty that he would be able to visit him. Alternate translation: "I plan to come to you" or "I want to come to you"

face to face

"Face to face" here is an idiom, meaning "in person." Alternate translation: "in person"

3 John 1:15

May peace be with you

"May God give you peace"

The friends greet you

"The friends here greet you"

Greet our friends there by name

"Greet each of the believers there for me"

ULB Translation Questions

3 John 1:1

By what title does the author John introduce himself in this letter?

John introduces himself as the elder.

What relationship does John have with Gaius, the one receiving this letter?

John loves Gaius in truth.

3 John 1:2

For what does John pray concerning Gaius?

John prays that Gaius would prosper in all things and be in health, as his soul prospers.

3 John 1:4

What is John's greatest joy?

John's greatest joy is to hear that his children walk in the truth.

3 John 1:6

Who did Gaius welcome and then send out on their journey?

Gaius welcomed and then sent out on their journey some who were going out for the sake of the Name.

3 John 1:7

Who did Gaius welcome and then send out on their journey?

Gaius welcomed and then sent out on their journey some who were going out for the sake of the Name.

3 John 1:8

Who did Gaius welcome and then send out on their journey?

Gaius welcomed and then sent out on their journey some who were going out for the sake of the Name.

Why does John say believers should welcome brothers such as these?

John says believers should welcome them so that they may be fellow-workers for the truth.

3 John 1:9

What does Diotrephes love?

Diotrephes loves to be first among the congregation.

What is Diotrephes' attitude toward John?

Diotrephes does not receive John.

3 John 1:10

What will John do if he comes to Gaius and the congregation?

If John comes he will remember Diotrephes' evil deeds.

What does Diotrephes do with the brothers going forth for the Name?

Diotrephes does not receive the brothers.

What does Diotrephes do with those who receive the brothers going forth for the Name?

Diotrephes forbids them from receiving the brothers, and drives them out of the congregation.

3 John 1:11

What does John tell Gaius to imitate?

John tells Gaius to imitate good.

3 John 1:14

What does John hope to do in the future?

John hopes to come and speak with Gaius face to face.

Book: Jude

Introduction to Jude

Overview

Jude wrote a letter to a certain church. However, nobody today knows where the church was located.

There were false teachers in this church. Jude warned these false teachers that God would punish them for their sins. He will judge them at the end of the world. He will declare them guilty, and he will punish them forever.

Jude also wrote metaphors in order to make the readers think in the right way about what he was telling them. Prophets often did this, and men who wrote about the end of the world also did this. In sum, Jude commanded his readers to reject the false teachers and to live in a way that honors God.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Last Days

Who wrote this letter?

Many men in ancient Israel had the name “Jude.” Jude’s name is also translated as “Judah” and “Judas.” The author was the brother of James (see: Jude 1:1). However, many men in ancient Israel had this name, and there were, in fact, four different people named James in Scripture. Two of these men were apostles.

Some scholars think that the man who wrote this letter was Jude the apostle, who was also called Thaddeus. However, Jude did not say that he was an apostle. Because of this, more scholars do not think that the author of this letter was an apostle. They think that the author of this letter was a son of Mary and Joseph. These scholars think that Mary and Joseph had children after Mary had Jesus. Therefore, Jude was a half-brother of Jesus.

See: Family of Jesus

Who did Jude write to?

Jude wrote to Christians (see: Jude 1:1). Jude also talked about many things that happened to the people of Israel in the past. Because of this, some scholars think that he wrote it to Jewish Christians. However, he also wrote about some trouble in the church. That is why scholars think that Jude wrote to one certain church or to a group of churches. This church had false teachers. These false teachers had come among the believers, but no one tried to stop them.

What did Jude write about in his letter?

False teachers

Jude spoke against certain false teachers. They did not teach the right things about Jesus. These false teachers also lived in a way that did not honor God. Jude declared that these false teachers were not honoring God and that God would judge them. Some scholars think that perhaps these false teachers were the same false teachers that Peter talked about in the letter called 2 Peter.

Some scholars think that the false teachers taught that Jesus was completely God but that he was not really a human being. These false teachers did not believe that Jesus had a real human body while he was on the earth. They thought that the world you can see and touch is evil. Other scholars think that these false teachers taught that a person could worship God without having to obey him. They taught that a person could live forever, even if he acted any way he wanted to. They said that if a person honors God by saying right things, he did not have to honor God by living in the right way.

Some scholars think these false teachers were Christians who were sinning a lot. However, more scholars think that these false teachers were not Christians at all. This is because Jude said that they God would punish them forever in hell.

See: Hell

Deliverance and punishment

Jude wrote that Christians have many difficulties, but that God will protect them and will rescue them from this evil world. However, God will punish anyone who rejects Jesus. Jude also said that Christians must remember the great things that God has done in the past. He rescued the people of Israel when they had difficulties.

Ancient Jewish Writings

Jude wrote about things that happened that the Old Testament did not talk about. These were things that were in other Jewish books. There were many of these books during Jude’s time. Many of the metaphors that Jude wrote, and many things he said, came from these other books.

In these other old Jewish writings, they said many things about angels that the Old Testament did not say. Jude apparently knew these things because he had read these other books. Because of this, Jude wrote more about the angels than the Old Testament says. Also, Jude frequently talked about angels and wrote that they do many things around human beings, even though people cannot usually see those things.

See: Ancient Writings

Why did Jude write this letter?

Jude warned churches, Christians, and false teachers. Jude did not want the Christians to stop believing the things that Scripture taught. In order to do this, they must be able to tell why what they believe about God is true. They must also live in a way that honors God, even though God will forgive them if they sin.

Outline of Jude

Introduction (1:1-2)
Warning against false teachers (1:3-4)
Things that the Old Testament taught (1:5-16)
How to obey the things that Jude wrote to do (1:17-23)
Praises to God (1:24-25)

Jude

Chapter 1

¹ Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, to those who are called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ:

² May mercy and peace and love be multiplied to you.

³ Beloved, while I was making every effort to write to you about our common salvation, I had to write to you to exhort you to struggle earnestly for the faith that was entrusted once for all to God's holy people. ⁴ For certain men have slipped in secretly among you. These men were marked out for condemnation. They are ungodly men who have changed the grace of our God into sensuality, and who deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.

⁵ Now I wish to remind you—although once you fully knew it—that the Lord saved a people out of the land of Egypt, but that afterward he destroyed those who did not believe. ⁶ Also, angels who did not keep to their own position of authority, but who left their proper dwelling place—God has kept them in everlasting chains, in utter darkness, for the judgment on the great day. ⁷ So also Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them gave themselves over to sexual immorality and perverse sexual acts. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire. ⁸ Yet in the same way, these dreamers also defile their bodies. They reject authority and they slander the glorious ones. ⁹ But even Michael the archangel, when he was arguing with the devil and disputing with him about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous judgment against him, but he said, "May the Lord rebuke you!" ¹⁰ But these people insult whatever they do not understand; and what they do understand naturally, like unreasoning animals, these are the very things that destroy them. ¹¹ Woe to them! For they have walked in the way of Cain and have plunged into Balaam's error for profit. They have perished in Korah's rebellion. ¹² These people are dangerous reefs at your love feasts, feasting with you fearlessly—shepherds who only feed themselves. They are clouds without rain carried along by winds; autumn trees, without fruit—twice dead, uprooted. ¹³ They are violent waves in the sea, foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of complete darkness has been reserved forever. ¹⁴ Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them, saying, "Look! The Lord is coming with thousands and thousands of his holy ones. ¹⁵ He is coming to execute judgment on everyone. He is coming to convict all the ungodly of all the works they have done in an ungodly way, and of all the bitter words that ungodly sinners have spoken against him." ¹⁶ These are grumblers, complainers, following their evil desires. Their mouths speak loud boasts, flattering others for profit.

¹⁷ But you, beloved, remember the words that were spoken in the past by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁸ They said to you, "In the last time there will be mockers who will follow their own ungodly desires." ¹⁹ It is these who cause divisions; they are worldly and they do not have the Spirit. ²⁰ But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith, and pray in the Holy Spirit. ²¹ Keep yourselves in God's love, and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that brings you eternal life. ²² Be merciful to those who doubt. ²³ Save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.

²⁴ Now to the one who is able to keep you from stumbling and to cause you to stand before his glorious presence without blemish and with great joy, ²⁵ to the only God our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time, now, and forever. Amen.

Jude 1 Commentary

1: 1-2

What did Jude call himself?

[1:1]

Jude called himself a servant (δοῦλος/g1401) of Jesus, even though he was not owned or in debt to anyone.

See: Serve (Servant, Slave)

Why did Jude speak about Jesus in this passage?

[1:1]

Scholars do not agree about what Jude wanted to say in this verse. Perhaps Jude wanted to say that God keeps believers united to Jesus. Or perhaps Jude wanted to say that God watches over believers by means of Jesus. Or perhaps Jude wanted to say that God watches over believers so that Jesus will benefit.

Also, perhaps Jude was saying that it is God the Father who watches over the believers, or perhaps that it is Jesus who does that.

See: Call (Calling); Call (Calling)

1:3-11

Why should Christians try very hard to do?

[1:3]

Jude wrote to Christians and told them to fight for, that is, do everything they could to work very hard to continue to believe what the apostles had taught them about Jesus. False teachers were trying to make them believe things that were different than what they had been taught. In fact, they were the opposite of what they had been taught. Therefore, Jude told the Christians that they needed to “fight” or “work very hard” to keep believing in the things they had been taught about Jesus and how to live as a Christian.

How did these false teachers try to change what the Christians believed the apostles taught about the grace of God?

[1:4]

These false teachers tried to change what the Christians believed the apostles taught about the grace of God. The false teachers believed that they could sin, and that God would not punish them. They believed that they could continue to sin because God would continue to forgive them for doing so. Jude taught that they could not live in the way they wanted to live. God has mercy on Christians, but they should not then say that they could sin all they want. Anyone who thinks like this does not understand why God has mercy on people.

See: Gospel; Mercy; Gospel

Who is the only master?

[1:4]

When people were making copies of the New Testament in Greek very long ago, some of them said that the master or ruler (δεσπότης/#g1203) was Jesus. But some others said that the master was God.

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible)

When did anyone write about the actions of the false teachers?

[1:4]

It is not known when someone wrote about the actions of the false teachers. Some scholars believe that God wrote in heaven about their wrong actions. Perhaps God did this before he made the world. Other scholars believe that Jude or another Christian leader wrote about these false teachers in another letter. Still other scholars believe that a Jewish prophet wrote about these false teachers long ago.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy)

In what way did these false teachers deny Jesus?

[1:4]

Jude said that these false teachers “denied (ἀρνέομαι/g0720)” or rejected Jesus. They may have denied that Jesus was God, or they may have denied something else about Jesus that is true. However, they may have also denied Jesus by living in a way that did not honor God. The scriptures speak about living in a way that does not honor God, so they reject God. However, God deserves for people obey him.

When did God announce that the false teachers were guilty?

[1:4]

No one knows when God announced that these false teachers were guilty. This word, “identified (προγράφω/g4270)” or “set aside,” is usually about something that someone wrote long ago. This did not happen in the recent past. Perhaps it happened in the Old Testament, or perhaps another Christian wrote it before Jude wrote his book. However, “set aside” does not have to say that someone wrote the names of these teachers in a book on earth. Perhaps someone wrote them in a book in heaven (see: Revelation 20:12). If this is so, this book is a metaphor for believers living with God forever.

Some scholars think that the false teachers had been teaching the Christians for a long time. When they began teaching the Christians, some found out that they were guilty. Other scholars believe that “set aside” shows that everyone will learn in the future that these false teachers were guilty. A few scholars believe that these false teachers were not Christians, and that God announced that they were guilty before they were born.

See: Condemn (Condemnation); Condemn (Condemnation)

Did Jesus bring the Israelites out from Egypt?

[1:5]

Some very old Greek copies of the book of Jude said that it was Jesus who brought the Israelites out of Egypt. Other old copies have the word lord (κύριος/g2962). This word can mean either Jesus or God. More old copies have the word “Jesus,” but Jude probably did not write “Jesus.” This is because the Bible does not say that Jesus brought the Israelites out of Egypt. Neither does the Bible say that Jesus punished the Israelites in the wilderness for not trusting God.

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible)

Did many angels sin?

[1:6]

At some time in the past, some of the angels sinned. They rebelled against God and what he commanded them to do. The very first time that they disobeyed God, they became guilty forever. So God punished them for having sinned. They became the demons. They stopped working for God. He threw them out of heaven and put them into chains. Some scholars think that Jude wanted to say that these are chains from which the demons cannot escape. Others think that they are chains in which the demons will stay forever. In Jude’s time, many other people believed the same things Jude believed about what the angels did in Genesis 6.

See: Genesis 6:1-4 See: Ancient Writings; Demon; Ancient Writings

What did Jude want to say when he wrote “keep” in verse 6?

[1:6]

Jude wrote the same word twice in verse 6. The angels should have protected or guarded (τηρέω/g5083) the thing that God gave them to guard. However, they rebelled and did not do this. God is guarding them now because they did not guard the things that God gave them to guard. This is a type of irony. Because of this, God will punish them later for having sinned.

See: Irony

God has punished many people at many different times. What three times did Jude talk about?

[1:5, 1:6, 1:7]

Jude reminded his readers that God punished the Israelites who refused to trust in him, even after God brought them out of Egypt. Then, Jude reminded them that God will punish the angels who rebelled against him. Finally, he reminded them that God punished the people of Sodom and Gomorrah.

See: Genesis 18 and 19

What is the “great” day?

[1:6]

Jude wrote about a “great” or significant day. This is the time when God will judge and punish all people. This is probably what scripture calls the Day of the Lord.

See: Day of the Lord

What was the strange flesh?

[1:7]

Jude said that the people in Sodom and Gomorrah wanted strange or other flesh or bodies (σάρξ/g4561). Some scholars believe that this means that the people were having sex with people of the same gender. Fewer scholars believe that the people were trying to have sex with angels.

See: Genesis 19

What is hell?

[1:7]

Hell is a place where God will punish people forever. Scripture often says that hell has a fire that never stops. Jude wrote about a fire that never stops as a type of punishment.

See: Hell

Who were the people who dreamed?

[1:8]

John said that the false teachers were people who “dreamed.” He said this, because people thought that it was God who made people dream. They thought that God showed people things through their dreams. However, these false teachers dreams and the things they taught did not come from God.

False teachers and false prophets often said that God gave them dreams or visions. When they said this, they wanted to say that God allowed them to tell people what they were supposed to do.

See: Vision

Who did the false teachers reject?

[1:8]

The false teachers rejected a group who was given permission to rule over something. Some scholars believe that it was God or Jesus whom they reject. Fewer scholars believe that it was angels who the false teachers rejected.

Who did the false teachers insult?

[1:8]

The false teachers insulted people or beings who deserved honor. Scholars believe that the false teachers insulted the angels who obeyed God. The Jews thought that the angels had brought Scripture to the people. When the false teachers insulted these angels, they also rejected the word of God.

Who is Michael?

[1:9]

Michael is an archangel or leader of the angels. He is an angel and is also a leader of angels or perhaps the most important angel. Michael is the only archangel that the Scriptures spoke about.

The books of Daniel and Revelation talk about Michael (see: Daniel 10:13, 20; 12:1, 7). Daniel called Michael a “great prince.” Some ancient Jews also believed that Michael took care of the place where Moses was buried. These ancient Jews often wrote about Michael.

See: 1 Thessalonians 4:16

See: Ancient Writings

When Michael talked with the devil, what did he show believers?

[1:9]

When Moses died, the devil wanted to take his body. But Michael did not dare to insult the devil, even though the devil was the leader of the angels who had sinned. Michael refused to insult him, because it was God who would judge the devil.

The devil, and the angels that serve him, did not respect God. Despite this, Michael showed that he respected the devil, because he refused to insult the devil. However, the false teachers insulted the angels who still serve God.

The story that Jude mentioned did not come from the Old Testament. Instead, it was from another ancient Jewish book.

See: Deuteronomy 34:6; Zechariah 3:2

See: Ancient Writings; Ancient Writings

Why did Jude talk about Cain, Balaam, and Korah?

[1:11]

Cain was the first person in the world to murder anyone. He did not love his brother. Instead, he killed his brother because he envied him. Cain also worshiped God in a false way. Balaam worked with enemies of God because Balaam was greedy for money. In Numbers, Moses showed that Balaam also encouraged the Israelites to sin against God (see: Numbers 31). As for Korah, he rebelled against the man whom God had chosen to lead the Israelites. In each of these cases, the people rejected God and rebelled against him. This is what the false teachers also did.

See: Genesis 4; Numbers 16; Numbers 22-24

Why did Jude write five metaphors in 1:12-14?

[1:12, 1:13, 1:14]

Jude wrote five metaphors to show his readers the errors that the false teachers made.

Jude said that the false teachers were like rocks hidden below the surface of the sea. Such rocks are dangerous to ships because they cannot be seen. The false teachers were dangerous, too, but many people did not know that these teachers could harm them.

Jude also said that the false teachers were like clouds that had no water to give to the earth. The wind quickly drives these clouds away in different directions. As for the false teachers, they are always thinking different things, and they are always teaching the people these different things.

These false teachers were also like trees that something has uprooted. So they have no fruit to give. The false teachers could not teach anyone how to live forever with God. God will announce that they are guilty, and he will punish them forever.

The false teachers were like the bubbles on the top of strong waves in the sea. These bubbles have no value. They are like false teachers, who can teach people things that will cause them nothing but shame.

These false teachers are like certain stars in the heavens that wander about, whose path no one can tell in advance. Because of that, no one can find their way at night by looking at those stars.

See: Lord's Supper; Lord's Supper

Who was Enoch?

[1:14]

There are two men named Enoch in the Old Testament. One Enoch was the son of Cain. However, verse 14 is about Enoch, the son of Jared (see: Genesis 5). This Enoch honored God and did not die. Instead, God took him to heaven without dying. There is also an ancient writing about this Enoch. Jude was thinking about that writing when he wrote his own letter.

See: Ancient Writings

Who were the holy ones?

[1:14]

In verse 14, Jude talked about “people” who honored God. This was about the angels who honored God. Jude copied this verse and the next verse from an ancient book called “The Assumption of Moses.”

See: Ancient Writings;Ancient Writings

What type of judgment did Jude talk about?

[1:15]

The judgment that Jude talked about was the final judgment. In this judgment, God will announce who is guilty. He will do this in the last days. Then he will punish those people forever.

See: Last Days

When is the last time or last day?

[1:18]

Jude spoke about the “last time” or “last day.” Jude probably talked about the time near to when Jesus would return to the earth. It is the time when God will judge everyone. Some scholars believe that there will be many people at this time who do not honor God. Perhaps this is what Jude talked about in verses 18-19.

See: Last Days

What people do not have the Spirit?

[1:19]

In verse 19, Jude talked about people who do not have the Spirit. This is the Holy Spirit. It means they are not Christians.

See: Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

1:20-25

How does a Christian pray in the Holy Spirit?

[1:20]

Some scholars believe that Jude wants Christians to pray for the things that the Holy Spirit wishes them to pray for. However, fewer scholars think that Jude wants Christians to pray in a special language that the Holy Spirit gives them.

What is the Greek text of verse 22?

[1:22]

In verse 22, some early Greek copies have “to have mercy on a person.” Other early copies have “to convince or to correct.” The Greek words are very similar (ἐλεέω and ἐλέγχω).

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible)

How many groups are listed in verses 22-23?

[1:22, 1:23]

Some scholars believe that there were three groups of people in verses 22-23.

There were those who did not yet decide whether or not to believe the false teachers. Perhaps they could not know whether those teachers were false or not. They did not know what they should believe.

There were also those who followed the false teachers. Because of this, God will judge them. Here Jude might be talking about both Christians and non-Christians. Jude wanted these people to repent and to believe that Jesus will return to earth. Some scholars believe this group is the same group described later in the verse. Others scholars believe that they were a different group.

Some scholars believe that a third group of people who began to follow the false teachers. These people were in danger of following these false teachers completely. Therefore, the Christian must avoid following this third group. Some scholars believe that the people in this group could not repent and believe in Jesus. Believers should have mercy on them because they ought to pity them.

Other scholars believe that these are three ways of describing the same group of people.

See: Zechariah 3:2-4

See: Jesus' Return to Earth; Jesus' Return to Earth

Do Christians save other people?

[1:23]

Christians cannot save or free (σῴζω/g4982) other people from the guilt of their sins. However, God often works through other people so that they become friends with him. Only God can free people from their guilt. Jude said that this was like taking people out of the fire. This is a metaphor meaning that they God will not punish these people in hell (see: Amos 4:11)

1:24-25

What did Jude mean when he wrote about stumbling?

[1:24]

In verse 24, Jude told people not to follow false teachers. Some scholars believe that if Christians followed the false teachers, they could stumble or fall (ἄπταιστος/g0679), that it, become separated from God forever. This is because in this verse, Jude also spoke about Christians standing before God’s throne and God welcoming them. Other scholars believe that they might lose some reward in heaven when Jesus judges them.

See: Walk; Walk

How does this letter end?

[1:24, 1:25]

In ancient times, most people ended their letters by greeting again the people to whom they were writing. However, Jude ended his letter by praising Jesus.

Jude 1:1

General Information:

Jude identifies himself as the writer of this letter and greets his readers. He was probably the half-brother of Jesus. There are two other Judes mentioned in the New Testament. The word "you" in this letter refers to the Christians to whom Jude was writing and is always plural.

Jude, a servant of

Jude is the brother of James. Alternate translation: "I am Jude, a servant of"

brother of James

James and Jude were half brothers of Jesus.

Jude 1:2

May mercy and peace and love be multiplied to you

"may mercy, peace, and love be increased many times for you." These ideas are spoken of as if they were objects that could grow in size or number. This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns "mercy," "peace," and "love." Alternate translation: "May God continue to be merciful to you so that you live peacefully and love one another more and more

Jude 1:3

General Information:

The word "our" in this letter includes both Jude and believers.

Connecting Statement:

Jude tells the believers his reason for writing this letter.

our common salvation

"the salvation we share"

I had to write

"I felt a great need to write" or "I felt an urgent need to write"

to exhort you to struggle earnestly for the faith

"to encourage you to defend the true teaching"

once for all

"finally and completely"

Jude 1:4

For certain men have slipped in secretly among you

"For some men have come in among the believers without drawing attention to themselves"

These men were marked out for condemnation

This can also be put into the active voice. Alternate translation: "These were men whom God chose to condemn"

who have changed the grace of our God into sensuality

God's grace is spoken of as if it were a thing that could be changed into something horrible. Alternate translation: "who teach that God's grace permits one to continue to live in sexual sin"

deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ

Possible meanings are 1) they teach that he is not God or 2) these men do not obey Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:5

Connecting Statement:

Jude gives examples from the past of those who did not follow the Lord.

the Lord saved a people out of the land of Egypt

"the Lord rescued the Israelites long ago from Egypt"

the Lord

Some texts read "Jesus."

Jude 1:6

their own position of authority

"the responsibilities God entrusted to them"

their proper dwelling place

The proper dwelling place of angels is heaven.

God has kept them in everlasting chains, in utter darkness

"God has put these angels in a dark prison from which they will never escape"

utter darkness

Here "darkness" is a metonym which represents the place of the dead or hell. Alternate translation: "in utter darkness in hell"

the great day

the final day when God will judge everyone

Jude 1:7

Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them

Here "Sodom," "Gomorrah," and "cities" represent the people who lived in them. Alternate translation: "the people of Sodom and Gomorrah and the people in the cities around them"

gave themselves over to sexual immorality and perverse sexual acts

"engaged in every kind of sexual immorality and all of the perverse sexual acts they desired." The sexual sins of Sodom and Gomorrah were the result of the same kind of rebellion as the angels' evil ways.

as an example of those who suffer the punishment

The destruction of the people of Sodom and Gomorrah became an example of the fate of all who reject God.

Jude 1:8

these dreamers

These are the people who disobey God, probably because they claim to have seen visions that gave them authority to do so.

defile their bodies

The people sinning is spoken of as if they were making their bodies unclean. Alternate translation: "sin and defile themselves"

they slander

"they speak insults about"

glorious ones

This refers to spiritual beings, such as angels.

Jude 1:9

General Information:

Balaam was a prophet who refused to curse Israel for an enemy but then taught that enemy to get the people to marry unbelievers and become idol worshipers. Korah was a man of Israel who rebelled against Moses's leadership and Aaron's priesthood.

did not dare to bring a slanderous judgment against him

"did not dare to speak anything evil against him" or "did not dare to insult or condemn him"

Jude 1:10

these people

the ungodly people

whatever they do not understand

"anything of which they do not know the meaning." Possible meanings are 1) "everything good that they do not understand" or 2) "the glorious ones, which they do not understand" (Jude 1:8).

Jude 1:11

walked in the way of Cain

"Walked in the way" here is a metaphor for "lived in the same way as." Alternate translation: "lived the same way Cain lived"

Jude 1:12

Connecting Statement:

Jude uses a series of metaphors to describe the ungodly men. He tells the believers how to recognize these men when they are among them.

These people

The word "These" refers to the "ungodly men" of Jude 1:4.

dangerous reefs

Reefs are large rocks that are very close to the surface of water in the sea. Because sailors cannot see them, they are very dangerous. Ships can easily be destroyed if they hit these rocks.

autumn trees, without fruit—twice dead, uprooted

These words contain two metaphors for dead people and apply them both to "these people."

autumn trees, without fruit

This is the first metaphor for dead people. Trees in autumn look dead because their leaves have all fallen off, as has the fruit of fruit trees.

twice dead, uprooted

This is the second metaphor for dead people. After these "autumn trees" have lost their leaves and fruit, they die their first metaphorical death. Then people uproot them, and they die their second metaphorical death.

uprooted

completely pulled out of the ground so their roots dry out

Jude 1:13

violent waves in the sea

As the sea's waves are blown by a strong wind, so the ungodly people are easily moved in many directions.

foaming up their shame

As wind causes wild waves to stir up dirty foam—so these men, through their false teaching and actions, shame themselves. Alternate translation: "and just as waves bring up foam and dirt, these men pollute others with their shame"

wandering stars

Those who studied the stars in ancient times noticed that some "stars,"—what we call planets—do not move the way that stars do, so they called them "wandering stars." Alternate translation: "They are like moving stars"

for whom the gloom of complete darkness has been reserved forever

Here "darkness" is a metonym that represents the place of the dead or hell, and "the gloom of complete darkness" is an idiom that means "a totally dark place." The phrase "has been reserved" can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "and God will put them in the gloom and complete darkness of hell forever"

Jude 1:14

the seventh from Adam

If Adam is counted as the first generation of mankind, Enoch is the seventh. If Adam's son is counted as the first, Enoch is sixth in line.

Look

"Listen" or "Pay attention to this important thing I am going to say"

holy ones

Possible meanings are 1) "angels" or 2) "saints" or 3) "angels and saints"

Jude 1:15

to execute judgment on

"to make judgment on" or "to judge"

Jude 1:16

grumblers, complainers

People who do not want to obey and speak against godly authority. "Grumblers" tend to speak quietly, while "complainers" speak openly.

Their mouths speak loud boasts

They praise themselves so that others can hear.

flattering others

"giving false praise to others"

Jude 1:17

General Information:

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Jude 1:18

mockers who will follow their own ungodly desires

Ungodly desires are spoken of as if they were a path that a person will follow. Alternate translation: "mockers who will continue to dishonor God by doing the evil things they wish to do"

Jude 1:19

It is these

"It is these mockers" or "These mockers are the ones"

they are worldly

Here "worldly" describes someone who is concerned with things of the world rather than things of God. Often in the Bible "world" represents all things opposed to God. Alternate translation: "they are only concerned with doing what is evil"

they do not have the Spirit

The Holy Spirit is spoken of as if he were something that people can possess. Alternate translation: "the Spirit is not within them"

Jude 1:20

Connecting Statement:

Jude tells the believers how they should live and how they should treat others.

But you, beloved

"Do not be like them, beloved. Instead"

build yourselves up

Becoming increasingly able to trust in God and obey him is spoken of as if it were the process of constructing a building.

Jude 1:21

Keep yourselves in God's love

Remaining able to receive God's love is spoken of as if one were keeping oneself in a certain place.

wait for

"eagerly look forward to"

the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that brings you eternal life

Here "mercy" stands for Jesus Christ himself, who will show his mercy to the believers by making them live forever with him.

Jude 1:22

those who doubt

"those who do not yet believe that Jesus is God"

Jude 1:23

snatching them out of the fire

The picture is that of pulling people from a fire before they start to burn. Alternate translation: "doing for them whatever needs to be done to keep them from dying without Christ. This is like pulling them from the fire"

to others show mercy with fear

"be kind to others, but be afraid of sinning the way they do"

hating even the garment defiled by the flesh

Jude exaggerates to warn his readers that they can become like those sinners. Alternate translation: "treating them as though you could become guilty of sin just by touching their clothes"

Jude 1:24

Connecting Statement:

Jude closes with a blessing.

to cause you to stand before his glorious presence

His glory is brilliant light that represents his greatness. Alternate translation: "and to allow you to enjoy and worship his glory"

glorious presence without blemish and with

Here sin is spoken of as if it were dirt on one's body or a flaw on one's body. Alternate translation: "glorious presence, where you will be without sin and have"

Jude 1:25

to the only God our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord

"to the only God, who saved us because of what Jesus Christ did." This emphasizes that God the Father as well as the Son is the Savior.

be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time, now, and forever

God has always had, now has, and always will have glory, absolute leadership, and complete control of all things.

ULB Translation Questions

Jude 1:1

Of whom was Jude a servant?

Jude was a servant of Jesus Christ.

Who was the brother of Jude?

Jude was the brother of James.

To whom did Jude write?

He wrote to those who were called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:2

What did Jude want multiplied to those to whom he wrote?

Jude wanted mercy, peace, and love to be multiplied.

Jude 1:3

What did Jude first want to write about?

Jude first wanted to write about their common salvation.

What did Jude actually write about?

Jude actually wrote about the need to struggle for the faith of the saints.

Jude 1:4

How did some condemned and ungodly men come?

Some condemned and ungodly men came stealthily.

What did the condemned and ungodly men do?

They changed the grace of God into sexual immorality and denied Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:5

From where did the Lord once save people?

The Lord saved them from the land of Egypt.

What did the Lord do to those people who did not believe?

The Lord destroyed those people who did not believe.

Jude 1:6

What did the Lord do to the angels who left their proper place?

The Lord put them in chains in darkness for judgment.

Jude 1:7

What did Sodom, Gomorrah, and the cities around them do?

They fornicated and pursued unnatural desires.

Jude 1:8

Like Sodom, Gomorrah, and the cities around them, what do the condemned and ungodly men do?

They pollute their bodies in their dreams, reject authority, and say evil things.

Jude 1:9

What did the archangel Michael say to the devil?

The archangel Michael said, "May the Lord rebuke you."

Jude 1:12

For whom do the condemned and ungodly men shamelessly care?

They shamelessly care for themselves.

Jude 1:14

Enoch was which place in line from Adam?

Enoch was the seventh in line from Adam.

Jude 1:15

Upon whom will the Lord execute judgment?

The Lord will execute judgment upon all people.

Jude 1:16

Who are the ungodly men who will be convicted?

Grumblers, complainers, those who go after their evil desires, loud boasters, and those who praise for personal advantage are the ungodly men who will be convicted.

Jude 1:17

Who spoke words in the past about mockers?

The apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ spoke words in the past about mockers.

Jude 1:19

What is true of the mockers who go after their own ungodly lusts, who cause divisions and are sensual?

They do not have the Holy Spirit.

Jude 1:20

How were the beloved building themselves up and praying?

The beloved were building themselves up in their most holy faith, and praying in the Holy Spirit.

Jude 1:21

What were the beloved to keep themselves in and look for?

The beloved were to keep themselves in and look for the love of God, and the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:22

Who should the beloved be merciful to?

The beloved should be merciful to people who doubt.

Jude 1:23

What should the beloved do for people who are in danger of the fire?

The beloved should snatch those people out of the fire.

In addition to showing mercy to other people, what should the beloved do?

The beloved should be afraid and hate even the clothing that those people have made unclean by their flesh.

Jude 1:24

What was God their Savior, through Jesus Christ their Lord, able to do?

God was able to keep them from stumbling and place them before the presence of his glory without blemish.

Jude 1:25

What was God their Savior, through Jesus Christ their Lord, able to do?

God was able to keep them from stumbling and place them before the presence of his glory without blemish.

When did God have glory?

God had glory before all time, now, and forevermore.

ULB Translation Words

Adam

Facts:

Adam was the first person whom God created. He and his wife Eve were made in the image of God.

God formed Adam from dirt and breathed life into him.
Adam's name sounds similar to the Hebrew word for "red dirt" or "ground."
The name "Adam" is the same as the Old Testament word for "mankind" or "human being."
All people are descendants of Adam and Eve.
Adam and Eve disobeyed God. This separated them from God and caused sin and death to come into the world.

(See also: death, descendant, Eve, image of God, life)

Bible References:

1 Timothy 02:14
Genesis 03:17
Genesis 05:01
Genesis 11:05
Luke 03:38
Romans 05:15

Word Data:

Strong's: H120, G76

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Adam, Adam's, the man, mankind

Balaam

Facts:

Balaam was a pagan prophet whom King Balek hired to curse Israel while they were camped at the Jordan River in northern Moab, preparing to enter the land of Canaan.

Balaam was from the city of Pethor, which was located in the region around the Euphrates River, about 400 miles away from the land of Moab.
The Midianite king, Balek, was afraid of the strength and numbers of the Israelites, so he hired Balaam to curse them.
As Balaam was traveling toward Israel, an angel of God stood in his path so that Balaam's donkey stopped. God also gave the donkey the ability to speak to Balaam.
God did not allow Balaam to curse the Israelites and commanded him to bless them instead.
Later however, Balaam still brought evil on the Israelites when he influenced them to worship the false god Baal-peor.

(See also: bless, Canaan, curse, donkey, Euphrates, Jordan River, Midian, Moab, Peor)

Bible References:

2 Peter 02:16
Deuteronomy 23:3-4
Joshua 13:22-23
Numbers 22:05
Revelation 02:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H1109, G903

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Balaam, Balaam's

Cain

Facts:

Cain and his younger brother Abel were the first sons of Adam and Eve mentioned in the Bible.

Cain was a farmer who produced food crops while Abel was a sheep herder.
Cain killed his brother Abel in a fit of jealousy because God had accepted Abel's sacrifice but had not accepted Cain's sacrifice.
As punishment, God sent him away from Eden and told him that the land would no longer yield crops for him.
God put a mark on Cain's forehead as a sign that God would protect him from being killed by other people as he wandered.

(See also: Adam, sacrifice)

Bible References:

1 John 03:12
Genesis 04:02
Genesis 04:09
Genesis 04:15
Hebrews 11:4
Jude 01:11

Word Data:

Strong's: H7014, G2535

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Cain, Cain's

Cain

Facts:

Cain and his younger brother Abel were the first sons of Adam and Eve mentioned in the Bible.

Cain was a farmer who produced food crops while Abel was a sheep herder.
Cain killed his brother Abel in a fit of jealousy because God had accepted Abel's sacrifice but had not accepted Cain's sacrifice.
As punishment, God sent him away from Eden and told him that the land would no longer yield crops for him.
God put a mark on Cain's forehead as a sign that God would protect him from being killed by other people as he wandered.

(See also: Adam, sacrifice)

Bible References:

1 John 03:12
Genesis 04:02
Genesis 04:09
Genesis 04:15
Hebrews 11:4
Jude 01:11

Word Data:

Strong's: H7014, G2535

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Cain, Cain's

Christ

Related Ideas:

Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Facts:

The terms "Messiah" and "Christ" mean "Anointed One" and refer to Jesus, God's Son.

Both "Messiah" and "Christ" are used in the New Testament to refer to God's Son, whom God the Father appointed to rule as king over his people, and to save them from sin and death.
In the Old Testament, the prophets wrote prophecies about the Messiah hundreds of years before he came to earth.
Often a word meaning "anointed (one)" is used in the Old Testament to refer to the Messiah who would come.
Jesus fulfilled many of these prophecies and did many miraculous works that proves he is the Messiah; the rest of these prophecies will be fulfilled when he returns.
The word "Christ" is often used as a title, as in "the Christ" and "Christ Jesus." "Christ" also came to be used as part of his name, as in "Jesus Christ." These names emphasize that God's Son is the Messiah, who will reign forever.
Jesus the Messiah is the one who was chosen and anointed as a Prophet, High Priest, and King.

Translation Suggestions:

In many languages "Jesus" and "Christ" are spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesucristo," "Jezus Christus," "Yesus Kristus", and "Hesukristo" are some of the ways that these names are translated into different languages.
For the term "Christ," some translators may prefer to use only some form of the term "Messiah" throughout.
This term could be translated using its meaning, "the Anointed One" or "God's Anointed Savior."
Many languages use a transliterated word that looks or sounds like "Christ" or "Messiah."
The transliterated word could be followed by the definition of the term, as in "Christ, the Anointed One."
Be consistent in how this is translated throughout the Bible so that it is clear that the same term is being referred to.
Make sure the translations of "Messiah" and "Christ" work well in contexts where both terms occur in the same verse (such as John 1:41).

(See also: Son of God, David, Jesus, anoint)

Bible References:

1 John 05:1-3
Acts 02:35
Acts 05:40-42
John 01:40-42
John 03:27-28
John 04:25
Luke 02:10-12
Matthew 01:16

Word Data:

Strong's: H4899, G3323, G5547

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Christ, Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Christ

Related Ideas:

Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Facts:

The terms "Messiah" and "Christ" mean "Anointed One" and refer to Jesus, God's Son.

Both "Messiah" and "Christ" are used in the New Testament to refer to God's Son, whom God the Father appointed to rule as king over his people, and to save them from sin and death.
In the Old Testament, the prophets wrote prophecies about the Messiah hundreds of years before he came to earth.
Often a word meaning "anointed (one)" is used in the Old Testament to refer to the Messiah who would come.
Jesus fulfilled many of these prophecies and did many miraculous works that proves he is the Messiah; the rest of these prophecies will be fulfilled when he returns.
The word "Christ" is often used as a title, as in "the Christ" and "Christ Jesus." "Christ" also came to be used as part of his name, as in "Jesus Christ." These names emphasize that God's Son is the Messiah, who will reign forever.
Jesus the Messiah is the one who was chosen and anointed as a Prophet, High Priest, and King.

Translation Suggestions:

In many languages "Jesus" and "Christ" are spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesucristo," "Jezus Christus," "Yesus Kristus", and "Hesukristo" are some of the ways that these names are translated into different languages.
For the term "Christ," some translators may prefer to use only some form of the term "Messiah" throughout.
This term could be translated using its meaning, "the Anointed One" or "God's Anointed Savior."
Many languages use a transliterated word that looks or sounds like "Christ" or "Messiah."
The transliterated word could be followed by the definition of the term, as in "Christ, the Anointed One."
Be consistent in how this is translated throughout the Bible so that it is clear that the same term is being referred to.
Make sure the translations of "Messiah" and "Christ" work well in contexts where both terms occur in the same verse (such as John 1:41).

(See also: Son of God, David, Jesus, anoint)

Bible References:

1 John 05:1-3
Acts 02:35
Acts 05:40-42
John 01:40-42
John 03:27-28
John 04:25
Luke 02:10-12
Matthew 01:16

Word Data:

Strong's: H4899, G3323, G5547

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Christ, Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Christ

Related Ideas:

Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Facts:

The terms "Messiah" and "Christ" mean "Anointed One" and refer to Jesus, God's Son.

Both "Messiah" and "Christ" are used in the New Testament to refer to God's Son, whom God the Father appointed to rule as king over his people, and to save them from sin and death.
In the Old Testament, the prophets wrote prophecies about the Messiah hundreds of years before he came to earth.
Often a word meaning "anointed (one)" is used in the Old Testament to refer to the Messiah who would come.
Jesus fulfilled many of these prophecies and did many miraculous works that proves he is the Messiah; the rest of these prophecies will be fulfilled when he returns.
The word "Christ" is often used as a title, as in "the Christ" and "Christ Jesus." "Christ" also came to be used as part of his name, as in "Jesus Christ." These names emphasize that God's Son is the Messiah, who will reign forever.
Jesus the Messiah is the one who was chosen and anointed as a Prophet, High Priest, and King.

Translation Suggestions:

In many languages "Jesus" and "Christ" are spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesucristo," "Jezus Christus," "Yesus Kristus", and "Hesukristo" are some of the ways that these names are translated into different languages.
For the term "Christ," some translators may prefer to use only some form of the term "Messiah" throughout.
This term could be translated using its meaning, "the Anointed One" or "God's Anointed Savior."
Many languages use a transliterated word that looks or sounds like "Christ" or "Messiah."
The transliterated word could be followed by the definition of the term, as in "Christ, the Anointed One."
Be consistent in how this is translated throughout the Bible so that it is clear that the same term is being referred to.
Make sure the translations of "Messiah" and "Christ" work well in contexts where both terms occur in the same verse (such as John 1:41).

(See also: Son of God, David, Jesus, anoint)

Bible References:

1 John 05:1-3
Acts 02:35
Acts 05:40-42
John 01:40-42
John 03:27-28
John 04:25
Luke 02:10-12
Matthew 01:16

Word Data:

Strong's: H4899, G3323, G5547

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Christ, Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Egypt

Related Words:

Egyptian

Facts:

Egypt is a country in the northeast part of Africa, to the southwest of the land of Canaan. An Egyptian is a person who is from the country of Egypt.

In ancient times, Egypt was a powerful and wealthy country.
Ancient Egypt was divided into two parts, Lower Egypt (northern part where the Nile River flowed downward into the sea) and Upper Egypt (southern part). In the Old Testament, these parts are referred to as "Egypt" and "Pathros" in the original language text.
Several times when there was little food in Canaan, Israel's patriarchs traveled to Egypt to buy food for their families.
For several hundred years, the Israelites were slaves in Egypt.
Joseph and Mary went down to Egypt with the young child Jesus, to escape from Herod the Great.

Bible References:

1 Samuel 04:7-9
Acts 07:10
Exodus 03:07
Genesis 41:29
Genesis 41:57
Matthew 02:15

Word Data:

Strong's: H4692, H4693, H4713, H4714, G124, G125

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Egypt, Egypt's, Egyptian, Egyptians, Egyptians'

Enoch

Facts:

Enoch was the name of two men in the Old Testament.

One man named Enoch was descended from Seth. He was the great grandfather of Noah.
This Enoch had a close relationship with God and when he was 365 years old, God took him to heaven while he was still alive.
A different man named Enoch was a son of Cain.

(See also: Cain, Seth)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 01:03
Genesis 05:18-20
Genesis 05:24
Jude 01:14
Luke 03:36-38

Word Data:

Strong's: H2585, G1802

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Enoch, Enoch's

Eve

Facts:

This was the name of the first woman. Her name means "life" or "living."

God formed Eve from a rib that he took out of Adam.
Eve was created to be Adam's "helper." She came alongside Adam to assist him in the work that God gave them to do.
Eve was tempted by Satan (in the form of a snake) and was the first to sin by eating the fruit that God said not to eat.

(See also: Adam, life, Satan)

Bible References:

1 Timothy 02:13
2 Corinthians 11:03
Genesis 03:20
Genesis 04:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H2332, G2096

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Eve, Eve's

Gentile

Facts:

The term "Gentile" refers to anyone who is not a Jew. Gentiles are people who are not descendants of Jacob.

In the Bible, the term "uncircumcised" is also used figuratively to refer to Gentiles because many of them did not circumcise their male children as the Israelites did.
Because God chose the Jews to be his special people, they thought of the Gentiles as outsiders who could never be God's people.
The Jews were also called "Israelites" or "Hebrews" at different times in history. They referred to anyone else as a "Gentile."
Gentile could also be translated as "not a Jew" or "non-Jewish" or "not an Israelite" (Old Testament) or "non-Jew.".
Traditionally, Jews would neither eat with nor associate with Gentiles, which at first caused problems within the early church.

(See also: Israel, Jacob, Jew)

Bible References:

Acts 09:13-16
Acts 14:5-7
Galatians 02:16
Luke 02:32
Matthew 05:47
Matthew 06:5-7
Romans 11:25

Word Data:

Strong's: H1471, G1482, G1484

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Gentile, Gentiles

God

Related Ideas:

the living God

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

God has always existed; he existed before anything else existed, and he will continue to exist forever.
He is the only true God and has authority over everything in the universe.
God is perfectly righteous, infinitely wise, holy, sinless, just, merciful, and loving.
He is a covenant-keeping God, who always fulfills his promises.
People were created to worship God and he is the only one they should worship.
God revealed his name as "Yahweh," which means "he is" or "I am" or "the One who (always) exists."
The Bible also teaches about false "gods," which are nonliving idols that people wrongly worship.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "God" could include "Deity" or "Creator" or "Supreme Being."
Other ways to translate "God" could be "Supreme Creator" or "Infinite Sovereign Lord" or "Eternal Supreme Being."
Consider how God is referred to in a local or national language. There may also already be a word for "God" in the language being translated. If so, it is important to make sure that this word fits the characteristics of the one true God as described above.
Many languages capitalize the first letter of the word for the one true God, to distinguish it from the word for a false god.
Another way to make this distinction would be to use different terms for "God" and "god."
The phrase "I will be their God and they will be my people" could also be translated as "I, God, will rule over these people and they will worship me."

(See also: create, god, God the Father, Holy Spirit, god, Son of God, Yahweh)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Samuel 10:7-8
1 Timothy 04:10
Colossians 01:16
Deuteronomy 29:14-16
Ezra 03:1-2
Genesis 01:02
Hosea 04:11-12
Isaiah 36:6-7
James 02:20
Jeremiah 05:05
John 01:03
Joshua 03:9-11
Lamentations 03:43
Micah 04:05
Philippians 02:06
Proverbs 24:12
Psalms 047:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H136, H410, H426, H430, H433, H2623, H3069, H4136, H6697, G112, G516, G932, G935, G2098, G2124, G2128, G2152, G2153, G2299, G2304, G2312, G2314, G2315, G2316, G2317, G2318, G2319, G2320, G4151, G5207, G5377, G5463, G5537, G5538

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God, God's, the living God

God

Related Ideas:

the living God

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

God has always existed; he existed before anything else existed, and he will continue to exist forever.
He is the only true God and has authority over everything in the universe.
God is perfectly righteous, infinitely wise, holy, sinless, just, merciful, and loving.
He is a covenant-keeping God, who always fulfills his promises.
People were created to worship God and he is the only one they should worship.
God revealed his name as "Yahweh," which means "he is" or "I am" or "the One who (always) exists."
The Bible also teaches about false "gods," which are nonliving idols that people wrongly worship.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "God" could include "Deity" or "Creator" or "Supreme Being."
Other ways to translate "God" could be "Supreme Creator" or "Infinite Sovereign Lord" or "Eternal Supreme Being."
Consider how God is referred to in a local or national language. There may also already be a word for "God" in the language being translated. If so, it is important to make sure that this word fits the characteristics of the one true God as described above.
Many languages capitalize the first letter of the word for the one true God, to distinguish it from the word for a false god.
Another way to make this distinction would be to use different terms for "God" and "god."
The phrase "I will be their God and they will be my people" could also be translated as "I, God, will rule over these people and they will worship me."

(See also: create, god, God the Father, Holy Spirit, god, Son of God, Yahweh)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Samuel 10:7-8
1 Timothy 04:10
Colossians 01:16
Deuteronomy 29:14-16
Ezra 03:1-2
Genesis 01:02
Hosea 04:11-12
Isaiah 36:6-7
James 02:20
Jeremiah 05:05
John 01:03
Joshua 03:9-11
Lamentations 03:43
Micah 04:05
Philippians 02:06
Proverbs 24:12
Psalms 047:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H136, H410, H426, H430, H433, H2623, H3069, H4136, H6697, G112, G516, G932, G935, G2098, G2124, G2128, G2152, G2153, G2299, G2304, G2312, G2314, G2315, G2316, G2317, G2318, G2319, G2320, G4151, G5207, G5377, G5463, G5537, G5538

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God, God's, the living God

God

Related Ideas:

the living God

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

God has always existed; he existed before anything else existed, and he will continue to exist forever.
He is the only true God and has authority over everything in the universe.
God is perfectly righteous, infinitely wise, holy, sinless, just, merciful, and loving.
He is a covenant-keeping God, who always fulfills his promises.
People were created to worship God and he is the only one they should worship.
God revealed his name as "Yahweh," which means "he is" or "I am" or "the One who (always) exists."
The Bible also teaches about false "gods," which are nonliving idols that people wrongly worship.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "God" could include "Deity" or "Creator" or "Supreme Being."
Other ways to translate "God" could be "Supreme Creator" or "Infinite Sovereign Lord" or "Eternal Supreme Being."
Consider how God is referred to in a local or national language. There may also already be a word for "God" in the language being translated. If so, it is important to make sure that this word fits the characteristics of the one true God as described above.
Many languages capitalize the first letter of the word for the one true God, to distinguish it from the word for a false god.
Another way to make this distinction would be to use different terms for "God" and "god."
The phrase "I will be their God and they will be my people" could also be translated as "I, God, will rule over these people and they will worship me."

(See also: create, god, God the Father, Holy Spirit, god, Son of God, Yahweh)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Samuel 10:7-8
1 Timothy 04:10
Colossians 01:16
Deuteronomy 29:14-16
Ezra 03:1-2
Genesis 01:02
Hosea 04:11-12
Isaiah 36:6-7
James 02:20
Jeremiah 05:05
John 01:03
Joshua 03:9-11
Lamentations 03:43
Micah 04:05
Philippians 02:06
Proverbs 24:12
Psalms 047:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H136, H410, H426, H430, H433, H2623, H3069, H4136, H6697, G112, G516, G932, G935, G2098, G2124, G2128, G2152, G2153, G2299, G2304, G2312, G2314, G2315, G2316, G2317, G2318, G2319, G2320, G4151, G5207, G5377, G5463, G5537, G5538

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God, God's, the living God

God

Related Ideas:

the living God

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

God has always existed; he existed before anything else existed, and he will continue to exist forever.
He is the only true God and has authority over everything in the universe.
God is perfectly righteous, infinitely wise, holy, sinless, just, merciful, and loving.
He is a covenant-keeping God, who always fulfills his promises.
People were created to worship God and he is the only one they should worship.
God revealed his name as "Yahweh," which means "he is" or "I am" or "the One who (always) exists."
The Bible also teaches about false "gods," which are nonliving idols that people wrongly worship.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "God" could include "Deity" or "Creator" or "Supreme Being."
Other ways to translate "God" could be "Supreme Creator" or "Infinite Sovereign Lord" or "Eternal Supreme Being."
Consider how God is referred to in a local or national language. There may also already be a word for "God" in the language being translated. If so, it is important to make sure that this word fits the characteristics of the one true God as described above.
Many languages capitalize the first letter of the word for the one true God, to distinguish it from the word for a false god.
Another way to make this distinction would be to use different terms for "God" and "god."
The phrase "I will be their God and they will be my people" could also be translated as "I, God, will rule over these people and they will worship me."

(See also: create, god, God the Father, Holy Spirit, god, Son of God, Yahweh)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Samuel 10:7-8
1 Timothy 04:10
Colossians 01:16
Deuteronomy 29:14-16
Ezra 03:1-2
Genesis 01:02
Hosea 04:11-12
Isaiah 36:6-7
James 02:20
Jeremiah 05:05
John 01:03
Joshua 03:9-11
Lamentations 03:43
Micah 04:05
Philippians 02:06
Proverbs 24:12
Psalms 047:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H136, H410, H426, H430, H433, H2623, H3069, H4136, H6697, G112, G516, G932, G935, G2098, G2124, G2128, G2152, G2153, G2299, G2304, G2312, G2314, G2315, G2316, G2317, G2318, G2319, G2320, G4151, G5207, G5377, G5463, G5537, G5538

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God, God's, the living God

God the Father

Related Ideas:

Father, heavenly Father, my Father

Facts:

The terms "God the Father" and "heavenly Father" refer to Yahweh, the one true God. Another term with the same meaning is "Father," used most often when Jesus was referring to him.

God exists as God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Each one is fully God, and yet they are only one God. This is a mystery that mere humans cannot fully understand.
God the Father sent God the Son (Jesus) into the world, and he sends the Holy Spirit to his people.
Anyone who believes in God the Son becomes a child of God the Father, and God the Holy Spirit comes to live in that person. This is another mystery that human beings cannot fully understand.

Translation Suggestions:

In translating the phrase "God the Father," it is best to translate "Father" with the same word that the language naturally uses to refer to a human father.
The term "heavenly Father" could be translated by "Father who lives in heaven" or "Father God who lives in heaven" or "God our Father from heaven."
Usually "Father" is capitalized when it refers to God.

(See also: father, God, heaven, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Son of God)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 08:4-6
1 John 02:01
1 John 02:23
1 John 03:01
Colossians 01:1-3
Ephesians 05:18-21
Luke 10:22
Matthew 05:16
Matthew 23:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H1, H2, G3962

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Father, God the Father, heavenly Father, my Father

God the Father

Related Ideas:

Father, heavenly Father, my Father

Facts:

The terms "God the Father" and "heavenly Father" refer to Yahweh, the one true God. Another term with the same meaning is "Father," used most often when Jesus was referring to him.

God exists as God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Each one is fully God, and yet they are only one God. This is a mystery that mere humans cannot fully understand.
God the Father sent God the Son (Jesus) into the world, and he sends the Holy Spirit to his people.
Anyone who believes in God the Son becomes a child of God the Father, and God the Holy Spirit comes to live in that person. This is another mystery that human beings cannot fully understand.

Translation Suggestions:

In translating the phrase "God the Father," it is best to translate "Father" with the same word that the language naturally uses to refer to a human father.
The term "heavenly Father" could be translated by "Father who lives in heaven" or "Father God who lives in heaven" or "God our Father from heaven."
Usually "Father" is capitalized when it refers to God.

(See also: father, God, heaven, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Son of God)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 08:4-6
1 John 02:01
1 John 02:23
1 John 03:01
Colossians 01:1-3
Ephesians 05:18-21
Luke 10:22
Matthew 05:16
Matthew 23:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H1, H2, G3962

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Father, God the Father, heavenly Father, my Father

Gomorrah

Facts:

Gomorrah was a city located in a fertile valley near Sodom, where Abraham's nephew Lot chose to live.

The exact location of Gomorrah and Sodom is unknown, but there are indications that they may have been located directly south of the Salt Sea, near the Valley of Siddim.
There were many kings at war in the region where Sodom and Gomorrah were located.
When Lot's family was captured in a conflict between Sodom and other cities, Abraham and his men rescued them.
Not long after that, Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by God because of the wickedness of the people who lived there.

(See also: Abraham , Babylon, Lot, Salt Sea, Sodom)

Bible References:

2 Peter 02:06
Genesis 10:19
Genesis 14:1-2
Genesis 18:21
Isaiah 01:9
Matthew 10:15

Word Data:

Strong's: H6017

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Gomorrah

Greek

Related Words:

Grecian

Facts:

The term "Greek" refers to the language spoken in the country of Greece. It is also a person from the country of Greece. Greek was also spoken throughout the Roman Empire. The term "Grecian" means "Greek-speaking."

Since most non-Jewish people in the Roman Empire spoke Greek, Gentiles are often referred to as "Greeks" in the New Testament, especially when contrasted with Jews.
The phrase "Grecian Jews" referred to Jews who spoke Greek in contrast to the "Hebraic Jews" who spoke only Hebrew, or perhaps Aramaic.
Other ways to translate "Grecian" could include, "Greek-speaking" or "culturally Greek" or "Greek."
When referring to non-Jews, "Greek" could be translated as "Gentile."

(See also: Aram, Gentile, Greece, Hebrew, Rome)

Bible References:

Acts 06:1
Acts 09:29
Acts 11:20
Acts 14:1-2
Colossians 03:11
Galatians 02:3-5
John 07:35

Word Data:

Strong's: H3125, G1672, G1673, G1674, G1675, G1676

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Greek, Greeks, Grecian

Holy One

Related Ideas:

holy one

Definition:

The term "Holy One" is a title in the Bible that almost always refers to God.

In the Old Testament, this title often occurs in the phrase "Holy One of Israel."
In the New Testament, Jesus is also referred to as the "Holy One."
The term "holy one" is sometimes used in the Bible to refer to an angel.

Translation Suggestions:

The literal term is "the Holy" (with "One" being implied.) Many languages (like English) will translate this with the implied noun included (such as "One" or "God").
This term could also be translated as "God, who is holy" or "the Set Apart One."
The phrase "the Holy One of Israel" could be translated as "the Holy God whom Israel worships" or "the Holy One who rules Israel."
It is best to translate this term using the same word or phrase that is used to translate "holy."

(See also: holy, God)

Bible References:

1 John 02:20
2 Kings 19:22
Acts 02:27
Acts 03:13-14
Isaiah 05:15-17
Isaiah 41:14
Luke 04:33-34

Word Data:

Strong's: H6918, G40, G3741

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Holy One, holy ones

Holy Spirit

Related Ideas:

Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit of the Lord Yahweh

Facts:

These terms all refer to the Holy Spirit, who is God. The one true God exists eternally as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is also referred to as "the Spirit" and "Spirit of Yahweh" and "Spirit of truth."
Because the Holy Spirit is God, he is absolutely holy, infinitely pure, and morally perfect in all his nature and in everything he does.
Along with the Father and the Son, the Holy Spirit was active in creating the world.
When God's Son, Jesus, returned to heaven, God sent the Holy Spirit to his people to lead them, teach them, comfort them, and enable them to do God's will.
The Holy Spirit guided Jesus and he guides those who believe in Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

This term could simply be translated with the words used to translate "holy" and "spirit."
Ways to translate this term could also include "Pure Spirit" or "Spirit who is Holy" or "God the Spirit."

(See also: holy, spirit, God, lord, God the Father, Son of God, gift)

Bible References:

1 Samuel 10:10
1 Thessalonians 04:7-8
Acts 08:17
Galatians 05:25
Genesis 01:1-2
Isaiah 63:10
Job 33:04
Matthew 12:31
Matthew 28:18-19
Psalms 051:10-11

Word Data:

Strong's: H3068, H6944, H7307, G40, G4151

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Holy Spirit, Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit of the Lord Yahweh

Jesus

Related Ideas:

the Lord Jesus

Facts:

Jesus is God's Son. The name "Jesus" means "Yahweh saves."

In a miraculous way, the Holy Spirit caused the eternal Son of God to be born as a human being. His mother was told by an angel to call him "Jesus" because he was destined to save people from their sins.
Jesus did many miracles that revealed that he is God and that he is the Christ, or the Messiah.

Translation Suggestions:

In many languages "Jesus" is spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesu," "Jezus," "Yesus", and "Hesu" are some of the ways that this name is translated into different languages.
Also consider how this names are spelled in a nearby local or national language.

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 06:11
1 John 02:02
1 John 04:15
1 Timothy 01:02
2 Peter 01:02
2 Thessalonians 02:15
2 Timothy 01:10
Acts 02:23
Acts 05:30
Acts 10:36
Hebrews 09:14
Hebrews 10:22
Luke 24:20
Matthew 01:21
Matthew 04:03
Philippians 02:05
Philippians 02:10
Philippians 04:21-23
Revelation 01:06

Word Data:

Strong's: G2424

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Jesus, the Lord Jesus

Jesus

Related Ideas:

the Lord Jesus

Facts:

Jesus is God's Son. The name "Jesus" means "Yahweh saves."

In a miraculous way, the Holy Spirit caused the eternal Son of God to be born as a human being. His mother was told by an angel to call him "Jesus" because he was destined to save people from their sins.
Jesus did many miracles that revealed that he is God and that he is the Christ, or the Messiah.

Translation Suggestions:

In many languages "Jesus" is spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesu," "Jezus," "Yesus", and "Hesu" are some of the ways that this name is translated into different languages.
Also consider how this names are spelled in a nearby local or national language.

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 06:11
1 John 02:02
1 John 04:15
1 Timothy 01:02
2 Peter 01:02
2 Thessalonians 02:15
2 Timothy 01:10
Acts 02:23
Acts 05:30
Acts 10:36
Hebrews 09:14
Hebrews 10:22
Luke 24:20
Matthew 01:21
Matthew 04:03
Philippians 02:05
Philippians 02:10
Philippians 04:21-23
Revelation 01:06

Word Data:

Strong's: G2424

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Jesus, the Lord Jesus

Jesus

Related Ideas:

the Lord Jesus

Facts:

Jesus is God's Son. The name "Jesus" means "Yahweh saves."

In a miraculous way, the Holy Spirit caused the eternal Son of God to be born as a human being. His mother was told by an angel to call him "Jesus" because he was destined to save people from their sins.
Jesus did many miracles that revealed that he is God and that he is the Christ, or the Messiah.

Translation Suggestions:

In many languages "Jesus" is spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesu," "Jezus," "Yesus", and "Hesu" are some of the ways that this name is translated into different languages.
Also consider how this names are spelled in a nearby local or national language.

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 06:11
1 John 02:02
1 John 04:15
1 Timothy 01:02
2 Peter 01:02
2 Thessalonians 02:15
2 Timothy 01:10
Acts 02:23
Acts 05:30
Acts 10:36
Hebrews 09:14
Hebrews 10:22
Luke 24:20
Matthew 01:21
Matthew 04:03
Philippians 02:05
Philippians 02:10
Philippians 04:21-23
Revelation 01:06

Word Data:

Strong's: G2424

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Jesus, the Lord Jesus

Korah

Facts:

Korah was the name of three men in the Old Testament.

One of the sons of Esau was named Korah. He became a leader in his community.
Korah was also a descendant of Levi and so served in the tabernacle as a priest. He became jealous of Moses and Aaron and led a group of men to rebel against them.
A third man named Korah is listed as a descendant of Judah.

(See also: Aaron, authority, Caleb, descendant, Esau, Judah, priest)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 01:34-37
Numbers 16:1-3
Numbers 16:25-27
Psalm 042:1-2

Word Data:

Strong's: H7141

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Korah, Korahite, Korahites

Michael

Facts:

Michael is the chief of all God's holy, obedient angels. He is the only angel who is specifically referred to as the "archangel" of God.

The term "archangel" literally means "chief angel" or "ruling angel."
Michael is a warrior who fights against God's enemies and protects God's people.
He led the Israelites in fighting against the Persian army. In the end times he will lead the armies of Israel in the final battle against the forces of evil, as foretold in Daniel.
There are also several men in the Bible with the name Michael. Several men are identified as being the "son of Michael"

(See also: angel, Daniel, messenger, Persia)

Bible References:

Daniel 10:13
Daniel 10:21
Ezra 08:08
Revelation 12:7-9

Word Data:

Strong's: H4317, G3413

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Michael, Michael's

Moses

Facts:

Moses was a prophet and leader of the Israelite people for over 40 years.

When Moses was a baby, Moses' parents put him in a basket in the reeds of the Nile River to hide him from the Egyptian Pharaoh. Moses' sister Miriam watched over him there. Moses' life was spared when the pharaoh's daughter found him and took him to the palace to raise him as her son.
God chose Moses to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and to lead them to the Promised Land.
After the Israelites' escape from Egypt and while they were wandering in the desert, God gave Moses two stone tablets with the Ten Commandments written on them.
Near the end of his life, Moses saw the Promised Land, but didn't get to live in it because he disobeyed God.

(See also: Miriam, Promised Land, Ten Commandments)

Bible References:

Acts 07:21
Acts 07:30
Exodus 02:10
Exodus 09:01
Matthew 17:04
Romans 05:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H4872, H4873, G3475

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Moses, Moses'

Savior

Definitions:

The term "savior" refers to a person who saves or rescues others from danger. It can also refer to someone who gives strength to others or provides for them.

In the Old Testament, God is referred to as Israel's Savior because he often rescued them from their enemies, gave them strength, and provided them with what they needed to live.
In the New Testament, "Savior" is used as a description or title for Jesus Christ because he saves people from being eternally punished for their sin. He also saves them from being controlled by their sin.

Translation Suggestions:

If possible, "Savior" should be translated with a word that is related to the words "save" and "salvation."
Ways to translate this term could include "the One who saves" or "God, who saves" or "who delivers from danger" or "who rescues from enemies" or "Jesus, the one who rescues (people) from sin."

(See also: deliver, Jesus, save, save)

Bible References:

1 Timothy 04:10
2 Peter 02:20
Acts 05:29-32
Isaiah 60:15-16
Luke 01:47
Psalms 106:19-21

Word Data:

Strong's: H3467, G4990

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Savior, savior

Savior

Definitions:

The term "savior" refers to a person who saves or rescues others from danger. It can also refer to someone who gives strength to others or provides for them.

In the Old Testament, God is referred to as Israel's Savior because he often rescued them from their enemies, gave them strength, and provided them with what they needed to live.
In the New Testament, "Savior" is used as a description or title for Jesus Christ because he saves people from being eternally punished for their sin. He also saves them from being controlled by their sin.

Translation Suggestions:

If possible, "Savior" should be translated with a word that is related to the words "save" and "salvation."
Ways to translate this term could include "the One who saves" or "God, who saves" or "who delivers from danger" or "who rescues from enemies" or "Jesus, the one who rescues (people) from sin."

(See also: deliver, Jesus, save, save)

Bible References:

1 Timothy 04:10
2 Peter 02:20
Acts 05:29-32
Isaiah 60:15-16
Luke 01:47
Psalms 106:19-21

Word Data:

Strong's: H3467, G4990

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Savior, savior

Sodom

Facts:

Sodom was a city in the southern part of Canaan where Abraham's nephew Lot lived with his wife and children.

The land of the region surrounding Sodom was very well watered and fertile, so Lot chose to live there when he first settled in Canaan.
The exact location of this city is not known because Sodom and the nearby city of Gomorrah were completely destroyed by God as punishment for the evil things the people there were doing.
The most significant sin that the people of Sodom and Gomorrah were practicing was homosexuality.

(See also: Canaan, Gomorrah)

Bible References:

Genesis 10:19
Genesis 13:12
Matthew 10:15
Matthew 11:24

Word Data:

Strong's: H5467, G4670

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Sodom

Son of God

Related Ideas:

the Son

Facts:

The term "Son of God" refers to Jesus, the Word of God, who came into the world as a human being. He is also often referred to as "the Son."

Unlike anyone else, God the Father, the Son of God, and the Holy Spirit are all one God.
God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are all fully and equally God.
The Son of God has the same character as God the Father.

Because Jesus is God's Son, he loves and obeys his Father, and his Father loves him.

Translation Suggestions:

For the term "Son of God," it is best to translate "Son" with the same word the language would naturally use to refer to a human son.
Make sure the word used to translate "son" fits with the word used to translate "father" and that these words are the most natural ones used to express a true father-son relationship in the project language.
Using a capital letter to begin "Son" may help show that this is talking about God.
The phrase "the Son" is a shortened form of "the Son of God," especially when it occurs in the same context as "the Father."

(See also: Christ, father, God, God the Father, Holy Spirit, Jesus, son, sons of God)

Bible References:

1 John 04:10
Acts 09:20
Colossians 01:17
Galatians 02:20
Hebrews 04:14
John 03:18
Luke 10:22
Matthew 11:27
Revelation 02:18
Romans 08:29

Word Data:

Strong's: H426, H430, H1121, H1247, G2316, G5207

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Son of God, the Son

age

Related Ideas:

aged, from ancient times, old age

Definition:

The term "age" refers to the length of time a person has lived. The term "aged" describes a person who is very old. The term "age" is also used to refer generally to a time period.

Jesus refers to "this age" as the present time when evil, sin, and disobedience fill the earth.
There will be a future age when righteousness will reign over a new heaven and a new earth.
Other words used to express an extended period of time include "era" and "season."
The phrase "ancient times" refers to times long ago.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the term "age" could also be translated as "era" or "number of years old" or "time period" or "time."
The phrase "at a very old age" could be translated as "when he was very old" or "when he had lived a very long time."
The phrase "this present evil age" means "during this time right now when people are very evil."

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 29:28
1 Corinthians 02:07
Hebrews 06:05
Job 05:26

Word Data:

Strong's: H5769, H7872, G165, G166, G1074

Forms Found in the English ULB:

age, aged, ages, from ancient times, old age

amazed

Related Ideas:

amazement, appalled, astonished, astounded, incomprehensible, marvel, marvelous, perplexed, remarkable, surprised, wonder, wonderful

Definition:

Some of these terms mean to be very surprised because of something very unusual that happened. Many of these terms are positive and express that the people were happy about what had happened. Usually the event that caused the wonder and amazement was a miracle, something only God could do.

The words "amazed," "astonished," and "astounded" describe someone who is very surprised because of something very unusual that happened.
The word "appalled" describes someone who is amazed or horrified by something that is bad or evil.
The word "perplexed" describes someone who is to be amazed and troubled, not knowing what to think or how to act.
People "marvel" and "wonder" when they are surprised by something very unusual.
"Amazement" and "wonder" are what people feel when they are amazed.

Some of these terms describe things that are very unusual and surprise people. * The words "amazing", "astonishing," "marvelous," "remarkable," and "wonderful" describe things that are very unusual and surprise people. * The word "appalling" describes something that is very bad and causes people to be amazed or horrified. * The word "incomprehensible" describes something that is so great that people cannot ever understand it. * A "wonder" is an extraordinary and surprising thing that happens.

Translation Suggestions

Some of these words are translations of Greek expressions that mean "struck with amazement" or "standing outside of (oneself)." These expressions show how very surprised or shocked the person was feeling. Other languages might also have ways to express this.
Other ways to translate these words could be "extremely surprised" or "very shocked."

(See also: miracle, sign)

Bible References:

Acts 08:9-11
Acts 09:20-22
Galatians 01:06
Mark 02:10-12
Matthew 07:28
Matthew 15:29-31
Matthew 19:25

Word Data:

Strong's: H226, H852, H926, H943, H2865, H3820, H4159, H6313, H6381, H6382, H6383, H6395, H8047, H8074, H8429, H8539, H8540, H8541, G639, G1411, G1568, G1569, G1605, G1611, G1839, G2284, G2285, G2296, G2297, G2298, G4023, G4592, G5059

Forms Found in the English ULB:

amazed, amazement, amazing events, amazing things, appalled, appalling, astonish, astonished, astonishing, astounded, incomprehensible, marvel, marveled, marveling, marvelous, marvelous things, perplexed, remarkable, surprised, wonder, wonderful, wondering, wonders

angel

Related Ideas:

archangel

Definition:

An angel is a powerful spirit being whom God created. Angels exist to serve God by doing whatever he tells them to do. The term "archangel" refers to the angel who rules or leads all the other angels.

The word "angel" literally means "messenger."
The term "archangel" literally means "chief messenger." The only angel referred to in the Bible as an "archangel" is Michael.
In the Bible, angels gave messages to people from God. These messages included instructions about what God wanted the people to do.
Angels also told people about events that were going to happen in the future or events that had already happened.
Angels have God's authority as his representatives and sometimes in the Bible they spoke as if God himself was speaking.
Other ways that angels serve God are by protecting and strengthening people.
A special phrase, "angel of Yahweh," has more than one possible meaning: 1) It may mean "angel who represents Yahweh" or "messenger who serves Yahweh." 2) It may refer to Yahweh himself, who looked like an angel as he talked to a person. Either one of these meanings would explain the angel's use of "I" as if Yahweh himself was talking.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "angel" could include "messenger from God" or "God's heavenly servant" or "God's spirit messenger."
The term "archangel" could be translated as "chief angel" or "head ruling angel" or "leader of the angels."
Also consider how these terms are translated in a national language or another local language.
The phrase "angel of Yahweh" should be translated using the words for "angel" and "Yahweh." This will allow for different interpretations of that phrase. Possible translations could include "angel from Yahweh" or "angel sent by Yahweh" or "Yahweh, who looked like an angel."

(See also: chief, head, messenger, Michael, ruler, servant)

Bible References:

2 Samuel 24:16
Acts 10:3-6
Acts 12:23
Colossians 02:18-19
Genesis 48:16
Luke 02:13
Mark 08:38
Matthew 13:50
Revelation 01:20
Zechariah 01:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H47, H4397, G32, G743, G2465

Forms Found in the English ULB:

angel, angels, archangel

anger

Related Ideas:

angry, indignant, indignation, quick-tempered

Definition:

To "be angry" or to "have anger" means to be very displeased, irritated, and upset about something or against someone.

When people get angry, they are often sinful and selfish, but sometimes they have righteous anger against injustice or oppression.
God's anger (also called "wrath") expresses his strong displeasure regarding sin.
The phrase "provoke to anger" means "cause to be angry."
A "quick-tempered" person becomes angry quickly and easily.
To be "indignant" is to grieve to the point of anger or to be angry because someone has been arrogant.

(See also: wrath)

Bible References:

Ephesians 04:26
Exodus 32:11
Isaiah 57:16-17
John 06:52-53
Mark 10:14
Matthew 26:08
Psalms 018:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H599, H639, H1149, H1984, H2152, H2194, H2195, H2198, H2534, H2734, H2740, H2787, H3179, H3707, H3708, H3824, H4751, H4843, H5674, H5678, H6225, H7107, H7110, H7266, H7307, H7852, G23, G1758, G2371, G2372, G3164, G3709, G3710, G3711, G3947, G3949, G3950, G4360, G5520

Forms Found in the English ULB:

anger, anger burned, angered, angry, burning anger, indignant, indignation, quick-tempered

anger

Related Ideas:

angry, indignant, indignation, quick-tempered

Definition:

To "be angry" or to "have anger" means to be very displeased, irritated, and upset about something or against someone.

When people get angry, they are often sinful and selfish, but sometimes they have righteous anger against injustice or oppression.
God's anger (also called "wrath") expresses his strong displeasure regarding sin.
The phrase "provoke to anger" means "cause to be angry."
A "quick-tempered" person becomes angry quickly and easily.
To be "indignant" is to grieve to the point of anger or to be angry because someone has been arrogant.

(See also: wrath)

Bible References:

Ephesians 04:26
Exodus 32:11
Isaiah 57:16-17
John 06:52-53
Mark 10:14
Matthew 26:08
Psalms 018:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H599, H639, H1149, H1984, H2152, H2194, H2195, H2198, H2534, H2734, H2740, H2787, H3179, H3707, H3708, H3824, H4751, H4843, H5674, H5678, H6225, H7107, H7110, H7266, H7307, H7852, G23, G1758, G2371, G2372, G3164, G3709, G3710, G3711, G3947, G3949, G3950, G4360, G5520

Forms Found in the English ULB:

anger, anger burned, angered, angry, burning anger, indignant, indignation, quick-tempered

anoint

Related Ideas:

perfume, sons of fresh olive oil

Definition:

The term "anoint" means to rub or pour oil on a person or object. Sometimes the oil was mixed with spices, giving it a sweet, perfumed smell. The term is also used figuratively to refer to the Holy Spirit choosing and empowering someone.

In the Old Testament, priests, kings, and prophets were anointed with oil to set them apart for special service to God.
Objects such as altars or the tabernacle were also anointed with oil to show that they were to be used to worship and glorify God.
In the New Testament, sick people were anointed with oil for their healing.
The New Testament records two times that Jesus was anointed with perfumed oil by a woman, as an act of worship. One time Jesus commented that in doing this she was preparing him for his future burial.
After Jesus died, his friends prepared his body for burial by anointing it with oils and spices.
The titles "Messiah" (Hebrew) and "Christ" (Greek) mean "the Anointed (One)."
Jesus the Messiah is the one who was chosen and anointed as a Prophet, High Priest, and King.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the term "anoint" could be translated as "pour oil on" or "put oil on" or "consecrate by pouring perfumed oil on."
To "be anointed" could be translated as "be consecrated with oil." or "be appointed" or "be consecrated."
In some contexts the term "anoint" could be translated as "appoint."
A phrase like "the anointed priest," could be translated as "the priest who was consecrated with oil" or "the priest who was set apart by the pouring on of oil."

Bible References:

1 John 02:20
1 John 02:27
1 Samuel 16:2-3
Acts 04:27-28
Amos 06:5-6
Exodus 29:5-7
James 05:13-15

Word Data:

Strong's: H1101, H1878, H3323, H4473, H4886, H4888, H4899, H5480, G218, G1472, G3462, G3464, G5545, G5548

Forms Found in the English ULB:

anoint, anointed, anointing, perfume, sons of fresh olive oil

antichrist

Definition:

The term "antichrist" refers to a person or teaching that is against Jesus Christ and his work. There are many antichrists in the world.

The apostle John wrote that a person is the antichrist if he deceives people by saying that Jesus is not the Messiah or if he denies that Jesus is both God and human.
The Bible also teaches that there is a general spirit of antichrist in the world which opposes Jesus' work.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways to translate this term could include a word or phrase that means "Christ-opposer" or "enemy of Christ" or "person who is against Christ."
The phrase "spirit of the antichrist" could also be translated as "spirit that is against Christ" or "(someone) teaching lies about Christ" or "attitude of believing lies about Christ" or "spirit that teaches lies about Christ."
Also consider how this term is translated in a Bible translation in a local or national language.

(See also: Christ, reveal, tribulation)

Bible References:

1 John 02:18
1 John 04:03
2 John 01:07

Word Data:

Strong's: G500

Forms Found in the English ULB:

antichrist, antichrists

antichrist

Definition:

The term "antichrist" refers to a person or teaching that is against Jesus Christ and his work. There are many antichrists in the world.

The apostle John wrote that a person is the antichrist if he deceives people by saying that Jesus is not the Messiah or if he denies that Jesus is both God and human.
The Bible also teaches that there is a general spirit of antichrist in the world which opposes Jesus' work.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways to translate this term could include a word or phrase that means "Christ-opposer" or "enemy of Christ" or "person who is against Christ."
The phrase "spirit of the antichrist" could also be translated as "spirit that is against Christ" or "(someone) teaching lies about Christ" or "attitude of believing lies about Christ" or "spirit that teaches lies about Christ."
Also consider how this term is translated in a Bible translation in a local or national language.

(See also: Christ, reveal, tribulation)

Bible References:

1 John 02:18
1 John 04:03
2 John 01:07

Word Data:

Strong's: G500

Forms Found in the English ULB:

antichrist, antichrists

apostle

Related Ideas:

apostleship

Definition:

The "apostles" were men sent by Jesus to preach about God and his kingdom. The term "apostleship" refers to the position and authority of those who were chosen as apostles.

The word "apostle" means "someone who is sent out for a special purpose." The apostle has the same authority as the one who sent him.
Jesus' twelve closest disciples became the first apostles. Other men, such as Paul and James, also became apostles.
By God's power, the apostles were able to boldly preach the gospel and heal people, and were able to force demons to come out of people.

Translation Suggestions:

The word "apostle" can also be translated with a word or phrase that means "someone who is sent out" or "sent-out one" or "person who is called to go out and preach God's message to people."
It is important to translate the terms "apostle" and "disciple" in different ways.
Also consider how this term was translated in a Bible translation in a local or national language.

Bible References:

Jude 01:17-19
Luke 09:12-14

Word Data:

Strong's: G651, G652, G2491, G5376, G5570

Forms Found in the English ULB:

apostle, apostles, apostles', apostleship

ark

Related Ideas:

chest

Definition:

The term "ark" literally refers to a rectangular wooden box that is made to hold or protect something. An ark can be large or small, depending on what it is being used for.

In the English Bible, the word "ark" is first used to refer to the very large, rectangular, wooden boat that Noah built to escape the worldwide flood. The ark had a flat bottom, a roof, and walls.
Ways to translate this term could include "very large boat" or "barge" or "cargo ship" or "large, box-shaped boat."
The Hebrew word that is used to refer to this huge boat is the same word used for the basket or box that held baby Moses when his mother put him in the Nile River to hide him. In that case it is usually translated as "basket."
In the phrase "ark of the covenant," a different Hebrew word is used for "ark." This could be translated as "box" or "chest" or "container."
When choosing a term to translate "ark," it is important in each context to consider what size it is and what it is being used for.

(See also: ark of the covenant, basket)

Bible References:

1 Peter 03:20
Exodus 16:33-36
Exodus 30:06
Genesis 08:4-5
Luke 17:27
Matthew 24:37-39

Word Data:

Strong's: H727, H8392, G2787

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ark, chest

ark

Related Ideas:

chest

Definition:

The term "ark" literally refers to a rectangular wooden box that is made to hold or protect something. An ark can be large or small, depending on what it is being used for.

In the English Bible, the word "ark" is first used to refer to the very large, rectangular, wooden boat that Noah built to escape the worldwide flood. The ark had a flat bottom, a roof, and walls.
Ways to translate this term could include "very large boat" or "barge" or "cargo ship" or "large, box-shaped boat."
The Hebrew word that is used to refer to this huge boat is the same word used for the basket or box that held baby Moses when his mother put him in the Nile River to hide him. In that case it is usually translated as "basket."
In the phrase "ark of the covenant," a different Hebrew word is used for "ark." This could be translated as "box" or "chest" or "container."
When choosing a term to translate "ark," it is important in each context to consider what size it is and what it is being used for.

(See also: ark of the covenant, basket)

Bible References:

1 Peter 03:20
Exodus 16:33-36
Exodus 30:06
Genesis 08:4-5
Luke 17:27
Matthew 24:37-39

Word Data:

Strong's: H727, H8392, G2787

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ark, chest

ash

Related Ideas:

powder

Definitions:

The term "ash" or "ashes" refers to the grey powdery substance that is left behind after wood is burned. It is sometimes used figuratively to refer to something that is worthless or useless.

In the Bible sometimes the word "dust" is used when speaking about ashes. It can also refer to the fine, loose dirt that can form on dry ground.
An "ash heap" is a pile of ashes.
In ancient times, sitting in ashes was a sign of mourning or grieving.
When grieving, it was the custom to wear rough, scratchy sackcloth and sit in ashes or sprinkle the ashes on the head.
Putting ashes on the head was also a sign of humiliation or embarrassment.
Striving for something worthless, is said to be like "feeding on ashes."
When translating "ashes," use the word in the project language that refers to the burned-up remains after wood has burned.
Note that an "ash tree" is a completely different term.

(See also: fire, sackcloth)

Bible References:

1 Kings 20:10
Jeremiah 06:26
Psalms 102:09
Psalms 113:07

Word Data:

Strong's: H80, H665, H6083, H6368, H7834, G2868, G4700, G5077, G5522

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ash, ashes, powder

astray

Related Ideas:

draw away, make a mistake, mislead, mistaken, wander

Definition:

The terms "stray" and "go astray" mean to disobey God's will. People who are "led astray" have allowed other people or circumstances to influence them to disobey God.

The word "astray" gives a picture of leaving a clear path or a place of safety to go down a wrong and dangerous path.
Sheep who leave the pasture of their shepherd have "strayed." God compares sinful people to sheep who have left him and "gone astray."
To "draw away" someone or "mislead" someone is to lead him astray.

Translation Suggestions:

The phrase "go astray" could be translated as "go away from God" or "take a wrong path away from God's will" or "stop obeying God" or "live in a way that goes away from God."
To "lead someone astray" could be translated as "cause someone to disobey God" or "influence someone to stop obeying God" or "cause someone to follow you down a wrong path."

(See also: disobey, shepherd)

Bible References:

1 John 03:07
2 Timothy 03:13
Exodus 23:4-5
Ezekiel 48:10-12
Matthew 18:13
Matthew 24:05
Psalms 058:03
Psalms 119:110

Word Data:

Strong's: H5074, H5080, H7683, H7686, H8582, G1294, G4105, G5351

Forms Found in the English ULB:

astray, drawn away, go astray, goes astray, gone astray, lead ... astray, leads ... astray, led ... astray, made ... mistake, mislead, misleading, misleads, misled, mistaken, stray, strayed, straying, strays, wander, went astray

authority

Related Ideas:

authority to judge, place in charge, put in charge, right

Definition:

The term "authority" refers to the power of influence and control that someone has over someone else.

Kings and other governing rulers have authority over the people they are ruling.
The word "authorities" can refer to people, governments, or organizations that have authority over others.
The word "authorities" can also refer to spirit beings who have power over people who have not submitted themselves to God’s authority.
Masters have authority over their servants or slaves. Parents have authority over their children.
Governments have the authority or right to make laws that govern their citizens.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "authority" can also be translated as "control" or "right" or "qualifications."
Sometimes "authority" is used with the meaning of "power."
When "authorities" is used to refer to people or organizations who rule people, it could also be translated as "leaders" or "rulers" or "powers."
The phrase "by his own authority" could also be translated as, "with his own right to lead" or "based on his own qualifications."
The expression, "under authority" could be translated as, "responsible to obey" or "having to obey others' commands."

(See also: citizen, command, obey, power, ruler)

Bible References:

Colossians 02:10
Esther 09:29
Genesis 41:35
Jonah 03:6-7
Luke 12:05
Luke 20:1-2
Mark 01:22
Matthew 08:09
Matthew 28:19
Titus 03:01

Word Data:

Strong's: H2940, H4475, H4910, H4915, H6486, H6666, H6680, H7980, H7990, H8633, G831, G1413, G1849, G1850, G2003, G2525, G2715, G2917, G2963, G5247

Forms Found in the English ULB:

authorities, authority, authority to judge, places ... in charge, put ... in charge, puts ... in charge, right, was ... in charge, were ... in charge

beg

Related Ideas:

ask, beggar, needy

Definition:

The term "beg" means to urgently ask someone for something. It often refers to asking for money, but it is also commonly used to refer to pleading for something.

Often people beg or plead when they strongly need something, but don't know if the other person will give them what they ask for.
A "beggar" is someone who regularly sits or stands in a public place to ask people for money.
Depending on the context, this term could be translated as, "plead" or "urgently ask" or "demand money" or "regularly ask for money."

(See also: plead)

Bible References:

Luke 16:20
Mark 06:56
Matthew 14:36
Psalm 045:12-13

Word Data:

Strong's: H34, H577, H1245, H6035, H7592, G154, G1189, G1871, G2065, G3726, G3870, G4319, G4434

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ask, asking, asks, beg, beggar, begged, begging, needy

beg

Related Ideas:

ask, beggar, needy

Definition:

The term "beg" means to urgently ask someone for something. It often refers to asking for money, but it is also commonly used to refer to pleading for something.

Often people beg or plead when they strongly need something, but don't know if the other person will give them what they ask for.
A "beggar" is someone who regularly sits or stands in a public place to ask people for money.
Depending on the context, this term could be translated as, "plead" or "urgently ask" or "demand money" or "regularly ask for money."

(See also: plead)

Bible References:

Luke 16:20
Mark 06:56
Matthew 14:36
Psalm 045:12-13

Word Data:

Strong's: H34, H577, H1245, H6035, H7592, G154, G1189, G1871, G2065, G3726, G3870, G4319, G4434

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ask, asking, asks, beg, beggar, begged, begging, needy

believe

Related Ideas:

be persuaded, belief, believer, have faith, persuade, persuasive

Definition:

The terms "believe" and "believe in" are closely related, but have slightly different meanings:

believe
- To believe something is to accept or trust that it is true.
- To believe someone is to acknowledge that what that person has said is true.
- To persuade someone is to get that person to believe that something is true.
believe in
- To "believe in" someone means to "trust in" that person. It means to trust that the person is who he says he is, that he always speaks the truth, and that he will do what he has promised to do.
- When a person truly believes in something, he will act in such a way that shows that belief.
- The phrase "have faith in" usually has the same meaning as "believe in."
- To "believe in Jesus" means to believe that he is the Son of God, that he is God himself who also became human and who died as a sacrifice to pay for our sins. It means to trust him as Savior and live in a way that honors him.

In the Bible, the term "believer" refers to someone who believes in and relies on Jesus Christ as Savior.

The term "believer" literally means "person who believes."
The term "Christian" eventually came to be the main title for believers because it indicates that they believe in Christ and obey his teachings.

The term "unbelief" refers to not believing something or someone.

In the Bible, "unbelief" refers to not believing in or not trusting in Jesus as one's Savior.
A person who does not believe in Jesus is called an "unbeliever."

Translation Suggestions:

Translating "believe" and "believe in":
* To "believe" could be translated as to "know to be true" or "know to be right." * To "believe in" could be translated as "trust completely" or "trust and obey" or "completely rely on and follow."

Translating "believer":
* Some translations may prefer to say "believer in Jesus" or "believer in Christ." * This term could also be translated by a word or phrase that means "person who trusts in Jesus" or "someone who knows Jesus and lives for him." * Other ways to translate "believer" could be "follower of Jesus" or "person who knows and obeys Jesus." * The term "believer" is a general term for any believer in Christ, while "disciple" and "apostle" were used more specifically for people who knew Jesus while he was alive. It is best to translate these terms in different ways, in order to keep them distinct.

Translating "unbelief" and "unbeliever": * Other ways to translate "unbelief" could include "lack of faith" or "not believing." * The term "unbeliever" could be translated as "person who does not believe in Jesus" or "someone who does not trust in Jesus as Savior."

(See also: believe, apostle, Christian, disciple, faith, trust)

Bible References:

Genesis 15:06
Genesis 45:26
Job 09:16-18
Habakkuk 01:5-7
Mark 06:4-6
Mark 01:14-15
Luke 09:41
John 01:12
Acts 06:05
Acts 09:42
Acts 28:23-24
Romans 03:03
1 Corinthians 06:01
1 Corinthians 09:05
2 Corinthians 06:15
Hebrews 03:12
1 John 03:23

Word Data:

Strong's: H539, H3948, H6601, G544, G569, G3982, G4100, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

am persuaded, belief, believe, believed, believer, believers, believes, believing, has faith, persuade, persuaded, persuading, persuasiveness, were persuaded

believe

Related Ideas:

be persuaded, belief, believer, have faith, persuade, persuasive

Definition:

The terms "believe" and "believe in" are closely related, but have slightly different meanings:

believe
- To believe something is to accept or trust that it is true.
- To believe someone is to acknowledge that what that person has said is true.
- To persuade someone is to get that person to believe that something is true.
believe in
- To "believe in" someone means to "trust in" that person. It means to trust that the person is who he says he is, that he always speaks the truth, and that he will do what he has promised to do.
- When a person truly believes in something, he will act in such a way that shows that belief.
- The phrase "have faith in" usually has the same meaning as "believe in."
- To "believe in Jesus" means to believe that he is the Son of God, that he is God himself who also became human and who died as a sacrifice to pay for our sins. It means to trust him as Savior and live in a way that honors him.

In the Bible, the term "believer" refers to someone who believes in and relies on Jesus Christ as Savior.

The term "believer" literally means "person who believes."
The term "Christian" eventually came to be the main title for believers because it indicates that they believe in Christ and obey his teachings.

The term "unbelief" refers to not believing something or someone.

In the Bible, "unbelief" refers to not believing in or not trusting in Jesus as one's Savior.
A person who does not believe in Jesus is called an "unbeliever."

Translation Suggestions:

(See also: believe, apostle, Christian, disciple, faith, trust)

Bible References:

Genesis 15:06
Genesis 45:26
Job 09:16-18
Habakkuk 01:5-7
Mark 06:4-6
Mark 01:14-15
Luke 09:41
John 01:12
Acts 06:05
Acts 09:42
Acts 28:23-24
Romans 03:03
1 Corinthians 06:01
1 Corinthians 09:05
2 Corinthians 06:15
Hebrews 03:12
1 John 03:23

Word Data:

Strong's: H539, H3948, H6601, G544, G569, G3982, G4100, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

am persuaded, belief, believe, believed, believer, believers, believes, believing, has faith, persuade, persuaded, persuading, persuasiveness, were persuaded

beloved

Related Ideas:

dear, lovely, treasured

Definition:

The term "beloved" is an expression of affection that describes someone who is loved and dear to someone else.

The term "beloved" literally means "loved (one)" or "(who is) loved."
God refers to Jesus as his "beloved Son."
In their letters to Christian churches, the apostles frequently address their fellow believers as "beloved."
Something or someone who is "lovely" attracts the love and good desires of others.

Translation Suggestions:

This term could also be translated as "loved" or "loved one" or "well-loved," or "very dear."
In the context of talking about a close friend, this could be translated as "my dear friend" or "my close friend." In English it is natural to say "my dear friend, Paul" or "Paul, who is my dear friend." Other languages may find it more natural to order this in a different way.
Note that the word "beloved" comes from the word for God's love, which is unconditional, unselfish, and sacrificial.

(See also: love)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 04:14
1 John 03:02
1 John 04:07
Mark 01:11
Mark 12:06
Revelation 20:09
Romans 16:08
Song of Solomon 01:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H157, H1730, H2532, H3033, H3039, H4261, G25, G26, G27, G5207

Forms Found in the English ULB:

beloved, dear, lovely, treasured

beloved

Related Ideas:

dear, lovely, treasured

Definition:

The term "beloved" is an expression of affection that describes someone who is loved and dear to someone else.

The term "beloved" literally means "loved (one)" or "(who is) loved."
God refers to Jesus as his "beloved Son."
In their letters to Christian churches, the apostles frequently address their fellow believers as "beloved."
Something or someone who is "lovely" attracts the love and good desires of others.

Translation Suggestions:

This term could also be translated as "loved" or "loved one" or "well-loved," or "very dear."
In the context of talking about a close friend, this could be translated as "my dear friend" or "my close friend." In English it is natural to say "my dear friend, Paul" or "Paul, who is my dear friend." Other languages may find it more natural to order this in a different way.
Note that the word "beloved" comes from the word for God's love, which is unconditional, unselfish, and sacrificial.

(See also: love)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 04:14
1 John 03:02
1 John 04:07
Mark 01:11
Mark 12:06
Revelation 20:09
Romans 16:08
Song of Solomon 01:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H157, H1730, H2532, H3033, H3039, H4261, G25, G26, G27, G5207

Forms Found in the English ULB:

beloved, dear, lovely, treasured

blemish

Related Ideas:

defect, unblemished

Definitions:

The term "blemish" refers to a physical defect or imperfection on an animal or person. It can also refer to spiritual imperfections and faults in people.

For certain sacrifices, God instructed the Israelites to offer an animal with no blemishes or defects.
This is a picture of how Jesus Christ was the perfect sacrifice, without any sin.
Believers in Christ have been cleansed from their sin by his blood and are considered to be without blemish.
Ways to translate this term could include "defect" or "imperfection" or "sin," depending on the context.
Something that is "unblemished" does not have any blemishes or defects.

(See also: believe, clean, sacrifice, sin)

Bible References:

1 Peter 01:19
2 Peter 02:13
Deuteronomy 15:19-21
Numbers 06:13-15
Song of Solomon 04:07

Word Data:

Strong's: H3971, H8400, H8549, G299, G3470

Forms Found in the English ULB:

blemish, blemishes, defect, unblemished

blood

Related Ideas:

bleeding

Definition:

The term "blood" refers to the red liquid that comes out of a person's skin when there is an injury or wound. Blood brings life-giving nutrients to a person's entire body.

Blood symbolizes life and when it is shed or poured out, it symbolizes the loss of life, or death.
When people made sacrifices to God, they killed an animal and poured its blood on the altar. This symbolized the sacrifice of the animal's life to pay for people's sins.
Through his death on the cross, Jesus' blood symbolically cleanses people from their sins and pays for the punishment they deserve for those sins.
The expression "flesh and blood" refers to human beings.
The expression "own flesh and blood" refers to people who are biologically related.

Translation Suggestions:

This term should be translated with the term that is used for blood in the target language.
The expression "flesh and blood" could be translated as "people" or "human beings."
Depending on the context, the expression "my own flesh and blood" could be translated as "my own family" or "my own relatives" or "my own people."
If there is an expression in the target language that is used with this meaning, that expression could be used to translate "flesh and blood."

(See also: flesh)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Samuel 14:32
Acts 02:20
Acts 05:28
Colossians 01:20
Galatians 01:16
Genesis 04:11
Psalms 016:4
Psalms 105:28-30

Word Data:

Strong's: H1818, H5332, G129, G130, G131

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bleeding, blood

boast

Related Ideas:

boastful

Definition:

The term "boast" means to talk proudly about something or someone. Often it means to brag about oneself.

Someone who is "boastful" talks about himself in a proud way.
God rebuked the Israelites for "boasting in" their idols. They arrogantly worshiped false gods instead of the true God.
The Bible also talks about people boasting in such things as their wealth, their strength, their fruitful fields, and their laws. This means that they were proud about these things and did not acknowledge that God is the one who provided these things.
God urged the Israelites to instead "boast" or be proud about the fact that they know him.
The apostle Paul also talks about boasting in the Lord, which means being glad and thankful to God for all he has done for them.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways to translate "boast" could include "brag" or "talk proudly" or "be proud."
The term "boastful" could be translated by a word or phrase that means "full of prideful talk" or "prideful" or "talking proudly about oneself."
In the context of boasting in or about knowing God, this could be translated as "take pride in" or "exalt in" or "be very glad about" or "give thanks to God about."
Some languages have two words for "pride": one that is negative, with the meaning of being arrogant, and the other that is positive, with the meaning of taking pride in one's work, family, or country.

Translation Suggestions:

(See also: proud)

Bible References:

1 Kings 20:11
2 Timothy 03:1-4
James 03:14
James 04:15-17
Psalms 044:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H1984, H3235, H6286, G212, G213, G1461, G2620, G2744, G2745, G2746, G3166

Forms Found in the English ULB:

boast, boasted, boastful, boasting, boasts, reason for boasting

body

Related Ideas:

bodily, body of Christ, carcass, corpse

Definition:

The term "body" literally refers to the physical body of a person or animal. This term is also used figuratively to refer to an object or whole group that has individual members.

Often the term "body" refers to a dead person. Sometimes this is referred to as a "dead body" or a "corpse." The dead body of an animal is called a "carcass."
When Jesus said to the disciples at his last Passover meal, "This (bread) is my body," he was referring to his physical body that would be "broken" (killed) to pay for their sins.
In the Bible, Christians as a group are referred to as the "body of Christ." Just as a physical body has many parts, the "body of Christ" has many individual members. Each individual believer has a special function in the body of Christ to help the whole group work together to serve God and bring him glory.
Jesus is also referred to as the "head" (leader) of the "body" of his believers. Just as a person's head tells his body what to do, so Jesus is the one who guides and directs Christians as members of his "body."

Translation Suggestions:

The best way to translate this term would be with the word that is most commonly used to refer to a physical body in the project language. Make sure that the word used is not an offensive term.
When referring collectively to believers, for some languages it may be more natural and accurate to say "spiritual body of Christ."
When Jesus says, "This is my body," it is best to translate this literally, with a note to explain it if needed.
Some languages may have a separate word when referring to a dead body, such as "corpse" for a person or "carcass" for an animal. Make sure the word used to translate this makes sense in the context and is acceptable.

(See also: head, spirit)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 10:12
1 Corinthians 05:05
Ephesians 04:04
Judges 14:08
Numbers 06:6-8
Psalm 031:09
Romans 12:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H990, H1320, H1472, H1480, H1655, H3409, H4191, H5038, H5315, H6297, H7607, G4430, G4561, G4954, G4983

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bodies, bodily, body, carcass, carcasses, corpse, corpses

bold

Related Ideas:

boldly, boldness, emboldened

Definition:

These terms all refer to having courage and confidence to speak the truth and do the right thing even when it is difficult or dangerous.

A "bold" person is not afraid to say and do what is good and right, including defending people who are being mistreated. This could be translated as "courageous" or "fearless."
In the New Testament, the disciples continued to "boldly" preach about Christ in public places, in spite of the danger of being put in jail or killed. This could be translated as "confidently" or "with strong courage" or "courageously."
The "boldness" of these early disciples in speaking the good news of Christ's redeeming death on the cross resulted in the gospel being spread throughout Israel and nearby countries and finally, to the rest of the world. "Boldness" could also be translated as "confident courage."

(See also: confidence, good news, redeem)

Bible References:

1 John 02:28
1 Thessalonians 02:1-2
2 Corinthians 03:12-13
Acts 04:13

Word Data:

Strong's: H982, H5797, G662, G2292, G3618, G3954, G3955, G5111, G5112

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bold, boldly, boldness, emboldened

brother

Related Ideas:

brotherhood

Definition:

The term "brother" usually refers to a male person who shares at least one biological parent with another person.

In the Old Testament, the term "brothers" is also used as a general reference to relatives, such as members of the same tribe, clan, or people group.
In the New Testament, the apostles often used "brothers" to refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women, since all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father.
A few times in the New Testament, the apostles used the term "sister" when referring specifically to a fellow Christian who was a woman, or to emphasize that both men and women are being included. For example, James emphasizes that he is talking about all believers when he refers to "a brother or sister who is in need of food or clothing."

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate this term with the literal word that is used in the target language to refer to a natural or biological brother, unless this would give wrong meaning.
In the Old Testament especially, when "brothers" is used very generally to refer to members of the same family, clan, or people group, possible translations could include "relatives" or "clan members" or "fellow Israelites."
In the context of referring to a fellow believer in Christ, this term could be translated as "brother in Christ" or "spiritual brother."
If both males and females are being referred to and "brother" would give a wrong meaning, then a more general kinship term could be used that would include both males and females.
Other ways to translate this term so that it refers to both male and female believers could be "fellow believers" or "Christian brothers and sisters."
Make sure to check the context to determine whether only men are being referred to, or whether both men and women are included.

(See also: apostle, God the Father, sister, spirit)

Bible References:

Acts 07:26
Genesis 29:10
Leviticus 19:17
Nehemiah 03:01
Philippians 04:21
Revelation 01:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H251, H252, H264, H1730, H2993, H7453, G80, G81, G2385, G2500, G4613, G5360, G5569

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brother, brother's, brotherhood, brothers, brothers'

brother

Related Ideas:

brotherhood

Definition:

The term "brother" usually refers to a male person who shares at least one biological parent with another person.

In the Old Testament, the term "brothers" is also used as a general reference to relatives, such as members of the same tribe, clan, or people group.
In the New Testament, the apostles often used "brothers" to refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women, since all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father.
A few times in the New Testament, the apostles used the term "sister" when referring specifically to a fellow Christian who was a woman, or to emphasize that both men and women are being included. For example, James emphasizes that he is talking about all believers when he refers to "a brother or sister who is in need of food or clothing."

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate this term with the literal word that is used in the target language to refer to a natural or biological brother, unless this would give wrong meaning.
In the Old Testament especially, when "brothers" is used very generally to refer to members of the same family, clan, or people group, possible translations could include "relatives" or "clan members" or "fellow Israelites."
In the context of referring to a fellow believer in Christ, this term could be translated as "brother in Christ" or "spiritual brother."
If both males and females are being referred to and "brother" would give a wrong meaning, then a more general kinship term could be used that would include both males and females.
Other ways to translate this term so that it refers to both male and female believers could be "fellow believers" or "Christian brothers and sisters."
Make sure to check the context to determine whether only men are being referred to, or whether both men and women are included.

(See also: apostle, God the Father, sister, spirit)

Bible References:

Acts 07:26
Genesis 29:10
Leviticus 19:17
Nehemiah 03:01
Philippians 04:21
Revelation 01:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H251, H252, H264, H1730, H2993, H7453, G80, G81, G2385, G2500, G4613, G5360, G5569

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brother, brother's, brotherhood, brothers, brothers'

brother

Related Ideas:

brotherhood

Definition:

The term "brother" usually refers to a male person who shares at least one biological parent with another person.

In the Old Testament, the term "brothers" is also used as a general reference to relatives, such as members of the same tribe, clan, or people group.
In the New Testament, the apostles often used "brothers" to refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women, since all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father.
A few times in the New Testament, the apostles used the term "sister" when referring specifically to a fellow Christian who was a woman, or to emphasize that both men and women are being included. For example, James emphasizes that he is talking about all believers when he refers to "a brother or sister who is in need of food or clothing."

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate this term with the literal word that is used in the target language to refer to a natural or biological brother, unless this would give wrong meaning.
In the Old Testament especially, when "brothers" is used very generally to refer to members of the same family, clan, or people group, possible translations could include "relatives" or "clan members" or "fellow Israelites."
In the context of referring to a fellow believer in Christ, this term could be translated as "brother in Christ" or "spiritual brother."
If both males and females are being referred to and "brother" would give a wrong meaning, then a more general kinship term could be used that would include both males and females.
Other ways to translate this term so that it refers to both male and female believers could be "fellow believers" or "Christian brothers and sisters."
Make sure to check the context to determine whether only men are being referred to, or whether both men and women are included.

(See also: apostle, God the Father, sister, spirit)

Bible References:

Acts 07:26
Genesis 29:10
Leviticus 19:17
Nehemiah 03:01
Philippians 04:21
Revelation 01:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H251, H252, H264, H1730, H2993, H7453, G80, G81, G2385, G2500, G4613, G5360, G5569

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brother, brother's, brotherhood, brothers, brothers'

burden

Related Ideas:

burdensome, heavy, load

Definition:

A burden is a heavy load. It literally refers to a physical load such as a work animal would carry. The term "burden" also has several figurative meanings:

A burden can refer to a difficult duty or important responsibility that a person has to do. He is said to be "bearing" or "carrying" a "heavy burden."
A cruel leader may put difficult burdens on the people he is ruling, for example by forcing them to pay large amounts of taxes.
A person who does not want to be a burden to someone does not want to cause that other person any trouble.
The guilt of a person's sin is a burden to him.
The "burden of the Lord" is a figurative way of referring to a "message from God," usually an important or unpleasant one, that a prophet must deliver to God's people.
The term "burden" can be translated by "responsibility" or "duty" or "heavy load" or "message," depending on the context.

Bible References:

2 Thessalonians 03:6-9
Galatians 06:1-2
Galatians 06:03
Genesis 49:15
Matthew 11:30
Matthew 23:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H2960, H3053, H4614, H4853, H4864, H4931, H5445, H5447, H5448, H5449, H6006, H6231, G4, G916, G922, G1912, G2347, G2599, G2655, G5413

Forms Found in the English ULB:

burden, burdened, burdens, burdensome, heavy, load, loaded, loaded up, loads

call

Related Ideas:

appeal to, invite, summon

Definition:

The terms "call to" and "call out" mean to say something loudly to someone who is not nearby. To "call" someone means to summon that person. There are also some other meanings.

To "call out" to someone means to shout or speak loudly to someone far away. It can also mean to ask someone for help, especially God.
Often in the Bible, "call" has a meaning of "summon" or "command to come" or "request to come."
God calls people to come to him and be his people. This is their "calling."
When God "calls" people, it means that God has appointed or chosen people to be his children, to be his servants and proclaimers of his message of salvation through Jesus.
This term is also used in the context of naming someone. For example, "His name is called John," means, "He is named John" or "His name is John."
To be "called by the name of" means that someone is given the name of someone else. God says that he has called his people by his name.
A different expression, "I have called you by name" means that God has specifically chosen that person.
To appeal to someone is to ask someone to do something.
To invite someone is to ask them to do something that they might like to do.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "call" could be translated by a word that means "summon," which includes the idea of being intentional or purposeful in calling.
The expression "call out to you" could be translated as "ask you for help" or "pray to you urgently."
When the Bible says that God has "called" us to be his servants, this could be translated as, "specially chose us" or "appointed us" to be his servants.
"You must call his name" can also be translated as, "you must name him."
"His name is called" could also be translated as, "his name is" or "he is named."
To "call out" could be translated as, "say loudly" or "shout" or "say with a loud voice." Make sure the translation of this does not sound like the person is angry.
The expression "your calling" could be translated as "your purpose" or "God's purpose for you" or "God's special work for you."
To "call on the name of the Lord" could be translated as "seek the Lord and depend on him" or "trust in the Lord and obey him."
To "call on" an official is to tell him to do what he is supposed to do as part of his job.
To "call for" something could be translated by "demand" or "ask for" or "command."
The expression "you are called by my name" could be translated as, "I have given you my name, showing that you belong to me."
When God says, "I have called you by name," this could be translated as, "I know you and have chosen you."

(See also: pray)

Bible References:

1 Kings 18:24
1 Thessalonians 04:07
2 Timothy 01:09
Ephesians 04:01
Galatians 01:15
Matthew 02:15
Philippians 03:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H2199, H3259, H4744, H6817, H7121, H7123, H7769, H7773, G154, G1528, G1793, G1941, G1951, G2028, G2046, G2564, G2821, G2822, G2840, G2919, G3004, G3106, G3333, G3343, G3603, G3686, G3687, G3870, G4341, G4377, G4779, G4867, G5455, G5537, G5581

Forms Found in the English ULB:

appeal to, appealed to, appealing to, call, called, called on, called out, calling, calling out, calls, calls out, invite, invited, summon, summoned, summoning

call

Related Ideas:

appeal to, invite, summon

Definition:

The terms "call to" and "call out" mean to say something loudly to someone who is not nearby. To "call" someone means to summon that person. There are also some other meanings.

To "call out" to someone means to shout or speak loudly to someone far away. It can also mean to ask someone for help, especially God.
Often in the Bible, "call" has a meaning of "summon" or "command to come" or "request to come."
God calls people to come to him and be his people. This is their "calling."
When God "calls" people, it means that God has appointed or chosen people to be his children, to be his servants and proclaimers of his message of salvation through Jesus.
This term is also used in the context of naming someone. For example, "His name is called John," means, "He is named John" or "His name is John."
To be "called by the name of" means that someone is given the name of someone else. God says that he has called his people by his name.
A different expression, "I have called you by name" means that God has specifically chosen that person.
To appeal to someone is to ask someone to do something.
To invite someone is to ask them to do something that they might like to do.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "call" could be translated by a word that means "summon," which includes the idea of being intentional or purposeful in calling.
The expression "call out to you" could be translated as "ask you for help" or "pray to you urgently."
When the Bible says that God has "called" us to be his servants, this could be translated as, "specially chose us" or "appointed us" to be his servants.
"You must call his name" can also be translated as, "you must name him."
"His name is called" could also be translated as, "his name is" or "he is named."
To "call out" could be translated as, "say loudly" or "shout" or "say with a loud voice." Make sure the translation of this does not sound like the person is angry.
The expression "your calling" could be translated as "your purpose" or "God's purpose for you" or "God's special work for you."
To "call on the name of the Lord" could be translated as "seek the Lord and depend on him" or "trust in the Lord and obey him."
To "call on" an official is to tell him to do what he is supposed to do as part of his job.
To "call for" something could be translated by "demand" or "ask for" or "command."
The expression "you are called by my name" could be translated as, "I have given you my name, showing that you belong to me."
When God says, "I have called you by name," this could be translated as, "I know you and have chosen you."

(See also: pray)

Bible References:

1 Kings 18:24
1 Thessalonians 04:07
2 Timothy 01:09
Ephesians 04:01
Galatians 01:15
Matthew 02:15
Philippians 03:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H2199, H3259, H4744, H6817, H7121, H7123, H7769, H7773, G154, G1528, G1793, G1941, G1951, G2028, G2046, G2564, G2821, G2822, G2840, G2919, G3004, G3106, G3333, G3343, G3603, G3686, G3687, G3870, G4341, G4377, G4779, G4867, G5455, G5537, G5581

Forms Found in the English ULB:

appeal to, appealed to, appealing to, call, called, called on, called out, calling, calling out, calls, calls out, invite, invited, summon, summoned, summoning

call

Related Ideas:

appeal to, invite, summon

Definition:

The terms "call to" and "call out" mean to say something loudly to someone who is not nearby. To "call" someone means to summon that person. There are also some other meanings.

To "call out" to someone means to shout or speak loudly to someone far away. It can also mean to ask someone for help, especially God.
Often in the Bible, "call" has a meaning of "summon" or "command to come" or "request to come."
God calls people to come to him and be his people. This is their "calling."
When God "calls" people, it means that God has appointed or chosen people to be his children, to be his servants and proclaimers of his message of salvation through Jesus.
This term is also used in the context of naming someone. For example, "His name is called John," means, "He is named John" or "His name is John."
To be "called by the name of" means that someone is given the name of someone else. God says that he has called his people by his name.
A different expression, "I have called you by name" means that God has specifically chosen that person.
To appeal to someone is to ask someone to do something.
To invite someone is to ask them to do something that they might like to do.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "call" could be translated by a word that means "summon," which includes the idea of being intentional or purposeful in calling.
The expression "call out to you" could be translated as "ask you for help" or "pray to you urgently."
When the Bible says that God has "called" us to be his servants, this could be translated as, "specially chose us" or "appointed us" to be his servants.
"You must call his name" can also be translated as, "you must name him."
"His name is called" could also be translated as, "his name is" or "he is named."
To "call out" could be translated as, "say loudly" or "shout" or "say with a loud voice." Make sure the translation of this does not sound like the person is angry.
The expression "your calling" could be translated as "your purpose" or "God's purpose for you" or "God's special work for you."
To "call on the name of the Lord" could be translated as "seek the Lord and depend on him" or "trust in the Lord and obey him."
To "call on" an official is to tell him to do what he is supposed to do as part of his job.
To "call for" something could be translated by "demand" or "ask for" or "command."
The expression "you are called by my name" could be translated as, "I have given you my name, showing that you belong to me."
When God says, "I have called you by name," this could be translated as, "I know you and have chosen you."

(See also: pray)

Bible References:

1 Kings 18:24
1 Thessalonians 04:07
2 Timothy 01:09
Ephesians 04:01
Galatians 01:15
Matthew 02:15
Philippians 03:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H2199, H3259, H4744, H6817, H7121, H7123, H7769, H7773, G154, G1528, G1793, G1941, G1951, G2028, G2046, G2564, G2821, G2822, G2840, G2919, G3004, G3106, G3333, G3343, G3603, G3686, G3687, G3870, G4341, G4377, G4779, G4867, G5455, G5537, G5581

Forms Found in the English ULB:

appeal to, appealed to, appealing to, call, called, called on, called out, calling, calling out, calls, calls out, invite, invited, summon, summoned, summoning

children

Related Ideas:

child, childhood, childless

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "child" is often used to generally refer to someone who is young in age, including an infant. * The word "childhood" refers to the time that a person is a child. * The word "childless" describes a person who has no children. * The word "children" is the plural form of "child."

The words "child" and "children" also have several figurative uses.

In the Bible, disciples or followers are sometimes called "children."
Often the term "children" is used to refer to a person's descendants.
The phrase "children of" can refer to being characterized by something. Some examples of this would be:
- children of the light
- children of obedience
- children of the devil
This term can also refer to people who are like spiritual children. For example, "children of God" refers to people who belong to God through faith in Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "children" could be translated as "descendants" when it is referring to a person's great-grandchildren or great-great-grandchildren, etc.
Depending on the context, "children of" could be translated as, "people who have the characteristics of" or "people who behave like."
If possible, the phrase, "children of God" should be translated literally since an important biblical theme is that God is our heavenly Father. A possible translation alternate would be, "people who belong to God" or "God's spiritual children."
When Jesus calls his disciples "children," this could also be translated as, "dear friends" or "my beloved disciples."
When Paul and John refer to believers in Jesus as "children," this could also be translated as "dear fellow believers."
The phrase, "children of the promise" could be translated as, "people who have received what God promised them."

(See also: descendant, promise, son, spirit, believe, beloved)

Bible References:

1 John 02:28
3 John 01:04
Galatians 04:19
Genesis 45:11
Joshua 08:34-35
Nehemiah 05:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H1069, H1121, H1123, H1129, H1397, H1580, H2029, H2030, H2056, H2145, H2233, H2945, H3173, H3205, H3206, H3243, H3490, H4392, H5288, H5290, H5759, H5953, H6185, H7908, H7909, H7921, G730, G815, G1025, G1064, G3439, G3515, G3516, G3808, G3812, G3813, G3816, G4690, G5040, G5041, G5042, G5043, G5044, G5207, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

child, childhood, childless, children

children

Related Ideas:

child, childhood, childless

Definition:

The words "child" and "children" also have several figurative uses.

In the Bible, disciples or followers are sometimes called "children."
Often the term "children" is used to refer to a person's descendants.
The phrase "children of" can refer to being characterized by something. Some examples of this would be:
- children of the light
- children of obedience
- children of the devil
This term can also refer to people who are like spiritual children. For example, "children of God" refers to people who belong to God through faith in Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "children" could be translated as "descendants" when it is referring to a person's great-grandchildren or great-great-grandchildren, etc.
Depending on the context, "children of" could be translated as, "people who have the characteristics of" or "people who behave like."
If possible, the phrase, "children of God" should be translated literally since an important biblical theme is that God is our heavenly Father. A possible translation alternate would be, "people who belong to God" or "God's spiritual children."
When Jesus calls his disciples "children," this could also be translated as, "dear friends" or "my beloved disciples."
When Paul and John refer to believers in Jesus as "children," this could also be translated as "dear fellow believers."
The phrase, "children of the promise" could be translated as, "people who have received what God promised them."

(See also: descendant, promise, son, spirit, believe, beloved)

Bible References:

1 John 02:28
3 John 01:04
Galatians 04:19
Genesis 45:11
Joshua 08:34-35
Nehemiah 05:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H1069, H1121, H1123, H1129, H1397, H1580, H2029, H2030, H2056, H2145, H2233, H2945, H3173, H3205, H3206, H3243, H3490, H4392, H5288, H5290, H5759, H5953, H6185, H7908, H7909, H7921, G730, G815, G1025, G1064, G3439, G3515, G3516, G3808, G3812, G3813, G3816, G4690, G5040, G5041, G5042, G5043, G5044, G5207, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

child, childhood, childless, children

children

Related Ideas:

child, childhood, childless

Definition:

The words "child" and "children" also have several figurative uses.

In the Bible, disciples or followers are sometimes called "children."
Often the term "children" is used to refer to a person's descendants.
The phrase "children of" can refer to being characterized by something. Some examples of this would be:
- children of the light
- children of obedience
- children of the devil
This term can also refer to people who are like spiritual children. For example, "children of God" refers to people who belong to God through faith in Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "children" could be translated as "descendants" when it is referring to a person's great-grandchildren or great-great-grandchildren, etc.
Depending on the context, "children of" could be translated as, "people who have the characteristics of" or "people who behave like."
If possible, the phrase, "children of God" should be translated literally since an important biblical theme is that God is our heavenly Father. A possible translation alternate would be, "people who belong to God" or "God's spiritual children."
When Jesus calls his disciples "children," this could also be translated as, "dear friends" or "my beloved disciples."
When Paul and John refer to believers in Jesus as "children," this could also be translated as "dear fellow believers."
The phrase, "children of the promise" could be translated as, "people who have received what God promised them."

(See also: descendant, promise, son, spirit, believe, beloved)

Bible References:

1 John 02:28
3 John 01:04
Galatians 04:19
Genesis 45:11
Joshua 08:34-35
Nehemiah 05:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H1069, H1121, H1123, H1129, H1397, H1580, H2029, H2030, H2056, H2145, H2233, H2945, H3173, H3205, H3206, H3243, H3490, H4392, H5288, H5290, H5759, H5953, H6185, H7908, H7909, H7921, G730, G815, G1025, G1064, G3439, G3515, G3516, G3808, G3812, G3813, G3816, G4690, G5040, G5041, G5042, G5043, G5044, G5207, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

child, childhood, childless, children

church

Definition:

In the New Testament, the term "church" refers to a local group of believers in Jesus who regularly met together to pray and hear God's word preached. The term "the Church" often refers to all Christians.

This term literally refers to a "called out" assembly or congregation of people who meet together for a special purpose.
When this term is used to refer to all believers everywhere in the whole body of Christ, some Bible translations capitalize the first letter ("Church") to distinguish it from the local church.
Often the believers in a particular city would meet together in someone's home. These local churches were given the name of the city such as the "church at Ephesus."
In the Bible, "church" does not refer to a building.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "church" could be translated as a "gathering together" or "assembly" or "congregation" or "ones who meet together."
The word or phrase that is used to translate this term should also be able to refer to all believers, not just one small group.
Make sure that the translation of "church" does not just refer to a building.
The term used to translate "assembly" in the Old Testament could also be used to translate this term.
Also consider how it is translated in a local or national Bible translation.

(See also: assembly, believe, Christian)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 05:12
1 Thessalonians 02:14
1 Timothy 03:05
Acts 09:31
Acts 14:23
Acts 15:41
Colossians 04:15
Ephesians 05:23
Matthew 16:18
Philippians 04:15

Word Data:

Strong's: G1577

Forms Found in the English ULB:

church, churches

clean

Related Ideas:

cleanness, cleanse, unclean, uncleanness, wash

Definition:

The term "clean" literally means to not have any dirt or stain. In the Bible, words like "clean" and "washed" are often used figuratively to mean, "pure," "holy," "free from sin," or "innocent".

"Cleanse" is the process of making something "clean." It could also be translated as "wash" or "purify."
In the Old Testament, God told the Israelites which animals he had specified as ritually "clean" and which ones were "unclean." Only the clean animals were permitted to be used for eating or for sacrifice. In this context, the term "clean" means that the animal was acceptable to God for use as a sacrifice.
A person who had certain skin diseases would be unclean until the skin was healed enough to no longer be contagious. Instructions for cleansing the skin had to be obeyed in order for that person to be declared "clean" again.
Sometimes "clean" is used figuratively to refer to moral purity.

In the Bible, the term "unclean" is used figuratively to refer to things that God declared to be unfit for his people to touch, eat, or sacrifice.

God gave the Israelites instructions about which animals were "clean" and which ones were "unclean." The unclean animals were not permitted to be used for eating or for sacrifice.
People with certain skin diseases were said to be "unclean" until they were healed.
If the Israelites touched something "unclean," they themselves would be considered unclean for a certain period of time.
Obeying God's commands about not touching or eating unclean things kept the Israelites set apart for God's service.
This physical and ritual uncleanness was also symbolic of moral uncleanness.
In another figurative sense, "unclean spirit" refers to an evil spirit.

Translation Suggestions:

Translating "clean": * This term could be translated with the common word for "clean" or "pure" (in the sense of being not dirty). * Other ways to translate this could include, "ritually clean" or "acceptable to God." * "Cleanse" could be translated by "wash" or "purify." * Make sure that the words used for "clean" and "cleanse" can also be understood in a figurative sense.

Translating "unclean"" * The term "unclean" could also be translated as "not clean" or "unfit in God's eyes" or "physically unclean" or "defiled." * When referring to a demon as an unclean spirit, "unclean" could be translated as "evil" or "defiled." * The translation of this term should allow for spiritual uncleanness. It should be able to refer to anything that God declared as unfit for touching, eating, or sacrifice.

(See also: defile, demon, holy, sacrifice)

Bible References:

Genesis 07:02
Genesis 07:08
Deuteronomy 12:15
Psalms 051:07
Proverbs 20:30
Ezekiel 24:13
Matthew 23:27
Luke 05:13
Acts 08:07
Acts 10:27-29
Colossians 03:05
1 Thessalonians 04:07
James 04:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H1249, H1252, H1305, H1351, H2134, H2135, H2141, H2398, H2889, H2890, H2891, H2893, H2930, H2931, H2932, H3722, H5079, H5352, H5355, H5356, H6663, H7137, H8552, H8562, G167, G169, G2511, G2512, G2513, G2514, G2839, G2840

Forms Found in the English ULB:

clean, cleaned, cleanness, cleans, cleanse, cleansed, cleanses, cleansing, purge, unclean, uncleanness, wash, washed, washes, washing

command

Related Ideas:

commandment, forbid, order, requirement, solemn command

Definition:

The term to "command" means to order someone to do something. A "command" or "commandment" is what the person was ordered to do.

Although these terms have basically the same meaning, "commandment" often refers to certain commands of God which are more formal and permanent, such as the "Ten Commandments."
A command can be positive ("Honor your parents") or negative ("Do not steal").
To "take command" means to "take control" or "take charge" of something or someone.
To "forbid" is to command that someone not do something.

Translation Suggestions

It is best to translate this term differently from the term "law." Also compare with the definitions of "decree" and "statute."
Some translators may prefer to translate "command" and "commandment" with the same word in their language.
Others may prefer to use a special word for commandment that refers to lasting, formal commands that God has made.

(See decree, statute, law, Ten Commandments)

Bible References:

Luke 01:06
Matthew 01:24
Matthew 22:38
Matthew 28:20
Numbers 01:17-19
Romans 07:7-8

Word Data:

Strong's: H560, H565, H1696, H1697, H1881, H2706, H2708, H2710, H2942, H2951, H3027, H3245, H3982, H3983, H4406, H4687, H4931, H5713, H5749, H6346, H6490, H6673, H6680, H7101, H7218, H7227, H7262, H7970, H8269, G1263, G1291, G1296, G1297, G1299, G1690, G1778, G1781, G1785, G2003, G2004, G2008, G2036, G2753, G3056, G3143, G3726, G3852, G3853, G4367, G4487, G5506

Forms Found in the English ULB:

command, commanded, commanding, commandment, commandments, commands, forbid, forbidden, forbidding, give ... solemn command, given ... solemn commands, given an order, given orders, order, ordered, orders, requirement, solemn commands

command

Related Ideas:

commandment, forbid, order, requirement, solemn command

Definition:

The term to "command" means to order someone to do something. A "command" or "commandment" is what the person was ordered to do.

Although these terms have basically the same meaning, "commandment" often refers to certain commands of God which are more formal and permanent, such as the "Ten Commandments."
A command can be positive ("Honor your parents") or negative ("Do not steal").
To "take command" means to "take control" or "take charge" of something or someone.
To "forbid" is to command that someone not do something.

Translation Suggestions

It is best to translate this term differently from the term "law." Also compare with the definitions of "decree" and "statute."
Some translators may prefer to translate "command" and "commandment" with the same word in their language.
Others may prefer to use a special word for commandment that refers to lasting, formal commands that God has made.

(See decree, statute, law, Ten Commandments)

Bible References:

Luke 01:06
Matthew 01:24
Matthew 22:38
Matthew 28:20
Numbers 01:17-19
Romans 07:7-8

Word Data:

Strong's: H560, H565, H1696, H1697, H1881, H2706, H2708, H2710, H2942, H2951, H3027, H3245, H3982, H3983, H4406, H4687, H4931, H5713, H5749, H6346, H6490, H6673, H6680, H7101, H7218, H7227, H7262, H7970, H8269, G1263, G1291, G1296, G1297, G1299, G1690, G1778, G1781, G1785, G2003, G2004, G2008, G2036, G2753, G3056, G3143, G3726, G3852, G3853, G4367, G4487, G5506

Forms Found in the English ULB:

commit

Related Ideas:

commitment

Definition:

The terms "commit" and "commitment" refer to making a decision or promising to do something.

A person who promises to do something is also described as being "committed" to doing it.
To "commit" to someone a certain task means to assign that task to that person. For example, in 2 Corinthians Paul says that God has "committed" (or "given") to us the ministry of helping people be reconciled to God.
To "commit" something to someone is to give that thing completely to that person.
To "commit" someone to another person is to put someone either in the care of or under the guard of that other person.
The terms "commit" and "committed" also often refer to doing a certain wrong action such as "commit a sin" or "commit adultery" or "commit murder."
The expression "committed to him the task" could also be translated as "gave him the task" or "entrusted to him the task" or "assigned the task to him."
The term "commitment" could be translated by, "task that was given" or "promise that was made," depending on the context.

(See also: adultery, faithful, promise, sin)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 28:07
1 Peter 02:21-23
Jeremiah 02:12-13
Matthew 13:41
Psalm 058:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H539, H817, H1361, H1497, H1500, H1540, H1556, H2181, H2388, H2398, H2399, H2403, H4560, H4603, H5003, H5753, H5766, H5771, H6213, H6466, H7683, H7760, H7847, G264, G2038, G2716, G3429, G3431, G3860, G3872, G3908, G4102, G4203

Forms Found in the English ULB:

commit, commitment, commits, committed, committing

compassion

Related Ideas:

compassionate, deal gently with, pity, sympathy

Definition:

The term "compassion" refers to a feeling of concern for people, especially for those who are suffering. A "compassionate" person cares about other people and helps them.

The word "compassion" usually includes caring about people in need, as well as taking action to help them.
The Bible says that God is compassionate, that is, he is full of love and mercy.
In Paul's letter to the Colossians, he tells them to "clothe themselves with compassion." He is instructing them to care about people and to actively help others who are in need.
To have "sympathy" for someone is to understand how that person feels and to want to help him.

Translation Suggestions:

The literal meaning of "compassion" is "bowels of mercy." This is an expression that means "mercy" or "pity." Other languages may have their own expression that means this.
Ways of translating "compassion" could include, "a deep caring for" or "helpful mercy."
The term "compassionate" could also be translated as, "caring and helpful" or "deeply loving and merciful."

Bible References:

Daniel 01:8-10
Hosea 13:14
James 05:9-11
Jonah 04:1-3
Mark 01:41
Romans 09:14-16

Word Data:

Strong's: H2550, H2580, H2603, H5150, H5162, H5164, H7349, H7355, H7356, G1653, G3356, G3627, G4697, G4834, G4835

Forms Found in the English ULB:

compassion, compassionate, compassions, deal gently with, pitied, pity, sympathy

condemn

Related Ideas:

condemnation, denounce, sentence, sentence of condemnation, sentenced to death

Definition:

The terms "condemn" and "condemnation" refer to judging someone for doing something wrong.

Often the word "condemn" includes punishing that person for what they did wrong.
Sometimes "condemn" means to falsely accuse someone or to judge someone harshly.
To "denounce" someone is to say that he is guilty of great evil.
The term "condemnation" refers to the act of condemning or accusing someone. The word "judgment" means the same as "condemnation."

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, this term could be translated as "harshly judge" or "criticize falsely."
The phrase "condemn him" could be translated as,"judge that he is guilty" or "state that he must be punished for his sin."
The term "condemnation" could be translated as, "harsh judging" or "declaring to be guilty" or "punishment of guilt."

(See also: judge, punish)

Bible References:

1 John 03:20
Job 09:29
John 05:24
Luke 06:37
Matthew 12:07
Proverbs 17:15-16
Psalms 034:22
Romans 05:16

Word Data:

Strong's: H816, H6600, H7561, H8199, H8381, G843, G1349, H1882, G1935, G2607, G2613, G2631, G2632, G2633, G2917, G2919, G2920

Forms Found in the English ULB:

condemn, condemnation, condemned, condemning, condemns, denounce, sentence, sentence of condemnation, sentenced to death

condemn

Related Ideas:

condemnation, denounce, sentence, sentence of condemnation, sentenced to death

Definition:

The terms "condemn" and "condemnation" refer to judging someone for doing something wrong.

Often the word "condemn" includes punishing that person for what they did wrong.
Sometimes "condemn" means to falsely accuse someone or to judge someone harshly.
To "denounce" someone is to say that he is guilty of great evil.
The term "condemnation" refers to the act of condemning or accusing someone. The word "judgment" means the same as "condemnation."

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, this term could be translated as "harshly judge" or "criticize falsely."
The phrase "condemn him" could be translated as,"judge that he is guilty" or "state that he must be punished for his sin."
The term "condemnation" could be translated as, "harsh judging" or "declaring to be guilty" or "punishment of guilt."

(See also: judge, punish)

Bible References:

1 John 03:20
Job 09:29
John 05:24
Luke 06:37
Matthew 12:07
Proverbs 17:15-16
Psalms 034:22
Romans 05:16

Word Data:

Strong's: H816, H6600, H7561, H8199, H8381, G843, G1349, H1882, G1935, G2607, G2613, G2631, G2632, G2633, G2917, G2919, G2920

Forms Found in the English ULB:

condemn, condemnation, condemned, condemning, condemns, denounce, sentence, sentence of condemnation, sentenced to death

confess

Related Ideas:

confession, profess

Definition:

To confess means to admit or assert that something is true. A "confession" is a statement or admission that something is true.

The term "confess" can refer to boldly stating the truth about God. It can also refer to admitting that we have sinned.
The Bible says that if people confess their sins to God, he will forgive them.
James the apostle wrote in his letter that when believers confess their sins to each other, this brings spiritual healing.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that someday everyone will confess or declare that Jesus is Lord.
Paul also said that if people confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from the dead, they will be saved.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, ways to translate "confess" could include, "admit" or "testify" or "declare" or "acknowledge" or "affirm."
Different ways to translate "confession" could be, "declaration" or "testimony" or "statement about what we believe" or "admitting sin."

(See also: faith, testimony)

Bible References:

1 John 01:8-10
2 John 01:7-8
James 05:16
Leviticus 05:5-6
Matthew 03:4-6
Nehemiah 01:6-7
Philippians 02:9-11
Psalms 038:17-18

Word Data:

Strong's: H3034, H8426, G1843, G3670, G3671

Forms Found in the English ULB:

confess, confessed, confesses, confessing, confession, profess

confess

Related Ideas:

confession, profess

Definition:

To confess means to admit or assert that something is true. A "confession" is a statement or admission that something is true.

The term "confess" can refer to boldly stating the truth about God. It can also refer to admitting that we have sinned.
The Bible says that if people confess their sins to God, he will forgive them.
James the apostle wrote in his letter that when believers confess their sins to each other, this brings spiritual healing.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that someday everyone will confess or declare that Jesus is Lord.
Paul also said that if people confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from the dead, they will be saved.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, ways to translate "confess" could include, "admit" or "testify" or "declare" or "acknowledge" or "affirm."
Different ways to translate "confession" could be, "declaration" or "testimony" or "statement about what we believe" or "admitting sin."

(See also: faith, testimony)

Bible References:

1 John 01:8-10
2 John 01:7-8
James 05:16
Leviticus 05:5-6
Matthew 03:4-6
Nehemiah 01:6-7
Philippians 02:9-11
Psalms 038:17-18

Word Data:

Strong's: H3034, H8426, G1843, G3670, G3671

Forms Found in the English ULB:

confess, confessed, confesses, confessing, confession, profess

confidence

Related Ideas:

assure, carefree, confident, convinced, fully assured, without fear

Definition:

The term "confidence" refers to being sure that something is true or certain to happen.

In the Bible, the term "hope" often means to wait expectantly for something that is sure to happen. The ULB often translates this as "confidence" or "confidence for the future" or "future confidence" especially when it means to be assured of receiving what God has promised to believers in Jesus.
Often the term "confidence" refers especially to the certainty that believers in Jesus have that they will someday be with God forever in heaven.
The phrase, "have confidence in God" means to fully expect to receive and experience what God has promised.
Being "confident" means believing in God's promises and acting with the assurance that God will do what he has said. This term can also have the meaning of acting boldly and courageously.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "confident" could be translated as "assured" or "very sure."
The phrase "be confident" could also be translated as "trust completely" or "be completely sure about" or "know for certain."
The term "confidently" could also be translated as "boldly" or "with certainty."
Depending on the context, ways to translate "confidence" could include, "complete assurance" or "sure expectation" or "certainty."

(See also: believe, believe, bold, faithful, hope, trust)

Bible References:

Word Data:

Strong's: H982, H983, H986, H3689, H3690, H4009, H7961, G2292, G3954, G3982, G4006, G4135, G5287

Forms Found in the English ULB:

assure, carefree, confidence, confident, confidently, convinced, fully assured, source of ... confidence, without fear

darkness

Related Ideas:

dark, darken, gloom

Definition:

The terms "darkness" and "gloom" literally means an absence of light. There are also several figurative meanings of these terms:

As a metaphor, "darkness" means "impurity" or "evil" or "spiritual blindness."
It also refers to anything related to sin and moral corruption.
The expression "dominion of darkness" refers to all that is evil and ruled by Satan.
The term "darkness" can also be used as a metaphor for death.
People who do not know God are said to be "living in darkness," which means they do not understand or practice righteousness.
God is light (righteousness) and the darkness (evil) cannot overcome that light.
The place of punishment for those who reject God is sometimes referred to as "outer darkness."
The term "gloom" can be used as a metaphor for sadness.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate this term literally, with a word in the project language that refers to the absence of light. This could also be a term that refers to the darkness of a room with no light or to the time of day when there is no light.
For the figurative uses, it is also important to keep the image of darkness in contrast to light, as a way to describe evil and deception in contrast to goodness and truth.
Depending on the context, other ways to translate this could be, "darkness of night" (as opposed to "light of day") or "not seeing anything, like at night" or "evil, like a dark place".

(See also: corrupt, dominion, kingdom, light, redeem, righteous)

Bible References:

1 John 01:06
1 John 02:08
1 Thessalonians 05:05
2 Samuel 22:12
Colossians 01:13
Isaiah 05:30
Jeremiah 13:16
Joshua 24:7
Matthew 08:12

Word Data:

Strong's: H652, H653, H2816, H2821, H2822, H2825, H3990, H3991, H4285, H5890, H6205, H6751, H6937, G2217, G4652, G4653, G4654, G4655, G4656

Forms Found in the English ULB:

dark, darken, darkened, darker, darkness, gloom, thick darkness, turned dark

darkness

Related Ideas:

dark, darken, gloom

Definition:

The terms "darkness" and "gloom" literally means an absence of light. There are also several figurative meanings of these terms:

As a metaphor, "darkness" means "impurity" or "evil" or "spiritual blindness."
It also refers to anything related to sin and moral corruption.
The expression "dominion of darkness" refers to all that is evil and ruled by Satan.
The term "darkness" can also be used as a metaphor for death.
People who do not know God are said to be "living in darkness," which means they do not understand or practice righteousness.
God is light (righteousness) and the darkness (evil) cannot overcome that light.
The place of punishment for those who reject God is sometimes referred to as "outer darkness."
The term "gloom" can be used as a metaphor for sadness.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate this term literally, with a word in the project language that refers to the absence of light. This could also be a term that refers to the darkness of a room with no light or to the time of day when there is no light.
For the figurative uses, it is also important to keep the image of darkness in contrast to light, as a way to describe evil and deception in contrast to goodness and truth.
Depending on the context, other ways to translate this could be, "darkness of night" (as opposed to "light of day") or "not seeing anything, like at night" or "evil, like a dark place".

(See also: corrupt, dominion, kingdom, light, redeem, righteous)

Bible References:

1 John 01:06
1 John 02:08
1 Thessalonians 05:05
2 Samuel 22:12
Colossians 01:13
Isaiah 05:30
Jeremiah 13:16
Joshua 24:7
Matthew 08:12

Word Data:

Strong's: H652, H653, H2816, H2821, H2822, H2825, H3990, H3991, H4285, H5890, H6205, H6751, H6937, G2217, G4652, G4653, G4654, G4655, G4656

Forms Found in the English ULB:

dark, darken, darkened, darker, darkness, gloom, thick darkness, turned dark

day

Related Ideas:

daily, daytime, morning, today

Definition:

The term "day" literally refers to a period of time lasting 24 hours beginning at sundown. It is also used figuratively.

For the Israelites and the Jews, a day began at sunset of one day and ended at sunset of the next day.
Sometimes the term "day" is used figuratively to refer to a longer period of time, such as the "day of Yahweh" or "last days."
Some languages will use a different expression to translate these figurative uses or will translate "day" nonfiguratively.
Other translations of "day" could include, "time" or "season" or "occasion" or "event," depending on the context.

(See also: judgment day, last day)

Bible References:

Acts 20:06
Daniel 10:04
Ezra 06:15
Ezra 06:19
Matthew 09:15

Word Data:

Strong's: H3117, H3118, H3119, H6242, G2250, G4594

Forms Found in the English ULB:

daily, day, day's, days, days', daytime, morning, today

day

Related Ideas:

daily, daytime, morning, today

Definition:

The term "day" literally refers to a period of time lasting 24 hours beginning at sundown. It is also used figuratively.

For the Israelites and the Jews, a day began at sunset of one day and ended at sunset of the next day.
Sometimes the term "day" is used figuratively to refer to a longer period of time, such as the "day of Yahweh" or "last days."
Some languages will use a different expression to translate these figurative uses or will translate "day" nonfiguratively.
Other translations of "day" could include, "time" or "season" or "occasion" or "event," depending on the context.

(See also: judgment day, last day)

Bible References:

Acts 20:06
Daniel 10:04
Ezra 06:15
Ezra 06:19
Matthew 09:15

Word Data:

Strong's: H3117, H3118, H3119, H6242, G2250, G4594

Forms Found in the English ULB:

daily, day, day's, days, days', daytime, morning, today

death

Related Ideas:

breathed their last, dead, deadly, deadness, deathly, die, lethal, mortal, stop breathing

Definition:

This term is used to refer to both physical and spiritual death. Physically, it refers to when the physical body of a person stops living. Spiritually, it refers to sinners being separated from a holy God because of their sin.

1. Physical death

To "die" means to stop living. Death is the end of physical life.
A person's spirit leaves his body when he dies.
When Adam and Eve sinned, physical death came into the world.
The expression "put to death" refers to killing or murdering someone, especially when a king or other ruler gives an order for someone to be killed.
The words "deadly" and "lethal" describe something that causes someone to die.
Something that is "mortal" can die; it does not live forever.

2. Spiritual death

Spiritual death is the separation of a person from God.
Adam died spiritually when he disobeyed God. His relationship with God was broken. He became ashamed and tried to hide from God.
Every descendant of Adam is a sinner, and is spiritually dead. God makes us spiritually alive again when we have faith in Jesus Christ.

Translation Suggestions:

To translate the words "die," death," and dead," it is usually best to use the everyday, natural word or expression in the target language that refers to death. This is true both when “death” refers to physical death and when it refers to spiritual death.
In some languages, to "die" may be expressed as to "not live." The term "dead" may be translated as "not alive" or "not having any life" or "not living."
The expression "the dead" is a nominal adjective that refers to people who have died. Some languages will translate this as "dead people" or "people who have died."
The expression "put to death" could also be translated as "kill" or "murder" or "execute."

(See also: believe, faith, life, spirit)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 15:21
1 Thessalonians 4:17
Acts 10:42
Acts 14:19
Colossians 2:15
Colossians 2:20
Genesis 2:15-17
Genesis 34:27
Matthew 16:28
Romans 5:10
Romans 5:12
Romans 6:10

Word Data:

Strong's: H6, H1478, H1826, H1934, H2491, H4191, H4192, H4193, H4194, H4463, H5038, H5315, H6297, H6757, H7496, H7523, H7819, H8045, H8546, H8552, G336, G337, G520, G599, G615, G622, G1634, G2079, G2253, G2286, G2287, G2288, G2289, G2348, G2837, G2966, G3498, G3499, G3500, G4430, G4880, G4881, G5053, G5054

Forms Found in the English ULB:

about to die, breathed ... last, causes ... death, dead, deadly, deadness, death, deathly, deaths, die, die with, died, dies, dying, fatal, lethal, mortal, stop breathing, stops breathing

deceive

Related Ideas:

lie, deal falsely, deceit, deception, deceptive, delusion, entice, error, false, falsehood, flatter, illusion, trick

Definition:

The word "deceive" means to cause someone to believe something that is not true.

The words "deceit" and "deception" can refer to an act or habit of deceiving others or to a message that is not truthful.
A "deceiver" is someone who causes others to believe something that is not true. For example, Satan is called a "deceiver." The evil spirits that he controls are also deceivers.
The words “deceitful” and “deceptive” can describe people who deceive others or to messages or actions that are meant to deceive others.
To “entice” someone is to deceive him into thinking that he will enjoy doing something evil.
To “defraud” someone is to use deceit to get from him something that he would not give if he knew the truth.
To “flatter” someone is to praise him falsely so that he will do what the speaker wants him to do.
To “lie” to someone or to tell a “lie” is not the same as to lie down to go to sleep.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, “deceive” could be translated as "lie to," "mislead," "trick," or "fool."
"Deceiver" could be translated as "liar" or "one who misleads" or "someone who deceives."
Depending on the context, the terms "deception" or "deceit" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "falsehood" or "lying" or "trickery" or "dishonesty."
The terms "deceptive" or "deceitful" could be translated as "untruthful" or "misleading" or "lying" to describe a person who speaks or acts in a way that causes other people to believe things that are not true.

(See also: true)

Bible References:

1 John 1:8
1 Timothy 2:14
2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
Genesis 3:12-13
Genesis 31:26-28
Leviticus 19:11-12
Matthew 27:64
Micah 6:11

Word Data:

Strong's: H898, H2048, H2505, H3577, H3584, H3868, H4123, H4604, H4820, H4860, H5230, H5377, H5558, H6121, H6231, H6601, H7411, H7423, H7683, H7686, H7723, H7952, H8267, H8496, H8582, H8591, H8649, G538, G539, G1386, G1387, G1388, G1818, G3884, G4105, G2296, G4106, G4108, G5422, G5423, G5571

Forms Found in the English ULB:

a lie, deal falsely, deceit, deceitful, deceitfully, deceitfulness, deceive, deceived, deceiver, deceivers, deceives, deceiving, deception, deceptive, defraud, defrauded, delusion, entice, error, false, falsehood, falsely, flatter, flattering, flatters, flattery, illusions, liar, liars, lies, trick

declare

Related Ideas:

announce, declaration, proclaim, proclamation, pronounce

Definition:

The terms "declare" and "declaration" refer to making a formal or public statement, often to emphasize something. To "proclaim" means to announce or declare something publicly and boldly.

A "declaration" not only emphasizes the importance of what is being proclaimed, but it also calls attention to the one making the declaration.
For example, in the Old Testament, a message from God is often preceded by "the declaration of Yahweh" or "this is what Yahweh declares." This expression emphasizes that it is Yahweh himself who is saying this. The fact that the message comes from Yahweh shows how important that message is.
Often in the Bible, "proclaim" means to announce publicly something that God has commanded, or to tell others about God and how great he is.
In the New Testament, the apostles proclaimed the good news about Jesus to many people in many different cities and regions.
The term "proclaim" can also be used for decrees made by kings or for denouncing evil in a public way.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "declare" could be translated as "proclaim" or "publicly state" or "strongly say" or "emphatically state."
The term "declaration" could be translated as "statement" or "proclamation."
The term "proclaim" could be translated as "announce" or "openly preach" or "publicly declare."
The term "proclamation" could be translated as "announcement" or "public preaching."
The phrase "this is Yahweh's declaration" could be translated as "this is what Yahweh declares" or "this is what Yahweh says."

(See also: preach)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 16:24
1 Corinthians 15:31-32
1 Samuel 24:17-18
Amos 02:16
Ezekiel 05:11-12
Matthew 07:21-23

Word Data:

Strong's: H262, H816, H874, H1319, H1696, H1697, H2199, H3045, H3745, H4161, H4853, H5002, H5042, H5046, H5608, H6567, H6963, H7121, H7150, H7440, H7561, H7878, H8085, G312, G518, G591, G669, G1229, G1344, G1555, G1718, G1861, G2097, G2511, G2605, G2607, G2782, G2784, G2980, G3004, G3140, G3142, G3670, G3724, G3870, G3955, G4135, G4296, G5335

Forms Found in the English ULB:

announce, announced, announces, declaration, declarations, declare, declared, declares, declaring, proclaim, proclaimed, proclaiming, proclaims, proclamation, proclamations, pronounces

defile

Related Ideas:

pollute, pollution, stain

Definition:

The terms "defile" and "be defiled" refer to becoming polluted or dirty. Something can be defiled in a physical, moral, or ritual sense.

God warned the Israelites to not defile themselves by eating or touching things that he had declared as "unclean" and "unholy."
Certain things such as dead bodies and contagious diseases were declared by God to be unclean and would defile a person if they touched them.
God commanded the Israelites to avoid sexual sins. These would defile them and make them unacceptable to God.
There were also certain kinds of bodily processes that defiled a person temporarily until he could become ritually pure again.
A "stain" is a dirty mark that is hard to clean.
In the New Testament, Jesus taught that sinful thoughts and actions are what truly defile a person.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "defile" can also be translated as "cause to be unclean" or "cause to be unrighteous" or "cause to be ritually unacceptable."
To "be defiled" could be translated as "become unclean" or "be caused to be morally unacceptable (to God)" or "become ritually unacceptable."

(See also: clean, clean)

Bible References:

2 Kings 23:08
Exodus 20:24-26
Genesis 34:27
Genesis 49:04
Isaiah 43:27-28
Leviticus 11:43-45
Mark 07:14-16
Matthew 15:10

Word Data:

Strong's: H1351, H1352, H1602, H2490, H2491, H2610, H2930, H2931, G2839, G2840, G3392, G3435, G4695

Forms Found in the English ULB:

are defiled, be defiled, defile, defiled, defiles, defiling, polluted, pollutes, pollution, stain, stained, was defiled, were defiled

destroy

Related Ideas:

break down, bring ... to nothing, destruction, remove, cut to pieces, demolish, destroyer, destructive, downfall, overthrow, pass away, put an end to, shatter, spoil, throw down, waste away

Definition:

To destroy something is to completely make an end to it, so that it no longer exists.

The term "destroyer" literally means "person who destroys."
This term is often used in the Old Testament as a general reference to anyone who destroys other people, such as an invading army.
When God sent the angel to kill all the firstborn males in Egypt, that angel was referred to as "the destroyer of the firstborn." This could be translated as "the one (or angel) who killed the firstborn males."
In the book of Revelation about the end times, Satan or some other evil spirit is called "the Destroyer." He is the "one who destroys" because his purpose is to destroy and ruin everything God created.
The word "overthrown" is a metaphor that speaks of a ruler or a great city as if it were a person sitting or standing on a high place whom another person has pushed off of the high place and who is now lying helpless.

(See also: angel, Egypt, firstborn, Passover)

Bible References:

Exodus 12:23
Hebrews 11:28
Jeremiah 06:26
Judges 16:24

Word Data:

Strong's: H6, H7, H8, H622, H398, H1104, H1197, H1760, H1820, H1826, H1942, H2015, H2026, H2040, H2254, H2255, H2717, H2718, H2763, H2764, H2865, H3238, H3341, H3381, H3423, H3582, H3615, H3617, H3772, H3807, H3832, H4191, H4229, H4288, H4591, H4658, H4889, H5218, H5221, H5307, H5362, H5420, H5422, H5428, H5486, H5487, H5493, H5595, H5642, H5674, H6365, H6789, H6979, H7665, H7112, H7701, H7703, H7722, H7760, H7843, H7921, H8045, H8074, H8077, H8213, H8552, G355, G396, G622, G853, G684, G1311, G1842, G2049, G2506, G2507, G2647, G2704, G3089, G3639, G3645, G4199, G5351, G5356

Forms Found in the English ULB:

an end is put to, be destroyed, break ... down, breaking ... down, breaks ... down, bring ... to nothing, broke to pieces, broken, broken to pieces, brought ... down, brought ... to nothing, complete destruction, completely destroy, completely destroyed, crashing sound, cut ... to pieces, cut into pieces, cuts ... into pieces, demolish, destroy, destroy ... completely, destroyed, destroyer, destroyers, destroying, destroys, destruction, destructive, downfall, overthrew, overthrown, pass away, put an end to, shatter, shattered, shattering, spoil, throw down, throws ... down, thrown down, wasting away

destroy

Related Ideas:

break down, bring ... to nothing, destruction, remove, cut to pieces, demolish, destroyer, destructive, downfall, overthrow, pass away, put an end to, shatter, spoil, throw down, waste away

Definition:

To destroy something is to completely make an end to it, so that it no longer exists.

The term "destroyer" literally means "person who destroys."
This term is often used in the Old Testament as a general reference to anyone who destroys other people, such as an invading army.
When God sent the angel to kill all the firstborn males in Egypt, that angel was referred to as "the destroyer of the firstborn." This could be translated as "the one (or angel) who killed the firstborn males."
In the book of Revelation about the end times, Satan or some other evil spirit is called "the Destroyer." He is the "one who destroys" because his purpose is to destroy and ruin everything God created.
The word "overthrown" is a metaphor that speaks of a ruler or a great city as if it were a person sitting or standing on a high place whom another person has pushed off of the high place and who is now lying helpless.

(See also: angel, Egypt, firstborn, Passover)

Bible References:

Exodus 12:23
Hebrews 11:28
Jeremiah 06:26
Judges 16:24

Word Data:

Strong's: H6, H7, H8, H622, H398, H1104, H1197, H1760, H1820, H1826, H1942, H2015, H2026, H2040, H2254, H2255, H2717, H2718, H2763, H2764, H2865, H3238, H3341, H3381, H3423, H3582, H3615, H3617, H3772, H3807, H3832, H4191, H4229, H4288, H4591, H4658, H4889, H5218, H5221, H5307, H5362, H5420, H5422, H5428, H5486, H5487, H5493, H5595, H5642, H5674, H6365, H6789, H6979, H7665, H7112, H7701, H7703, H7722, H7760, H7843, H7921, H8045, H8074, H8077, H8213, H8552, G355, G396, G622, G853, G684, G1311, G1842, G2049, G2506, G2507, G2647, G2704, G3089, G3639, G3645, G4199, G5351, G5356

Forms Found in the English ULB:

dominion

Related Ideas:

control, dominate, subjugate

Definition:

The term "dominion" refers to power, control, or authority over people, animals, or land.

Jesus Christ is said to have dominion over all the earth, as prophet, priest, and king.
Satan's dominion has been defeated forever by Jesus Christ's death on the cross.
At creation, God said that man is to have dominion over fish, birds, and all creatures on the earth.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "authority" or "power" or "control."
The phrase "have dominion over" could be translated as "rule over" or "manage."

(See also: authority, power)

Bible References:

1 Peter 05:10-11
Colossians 01:13
Jude 01:25

Word Data:

Strong's: H4474, H4475, H4910, G4912, H4915, H7287, H7985, G1849, G2634, G2904, G2963

Forms Found in the English ULB:

control, controls, dominate, dominion, dominions, subjugate

dream

Related Ideas:

dreamer

Definition:

A dream is something that people see or experience in their minds while they are sleeping.

Dreams often seem like they are really happening, but they are not.
Sometimes God causes people to dream about something so they can learn from it. He may also speak directly to people in their dreams.
In the Bible, God gave special dreams to certain people to give them a message, often about something that would happen in the future.
A dream is different from a vision. Dreams happen while a person is asleep, but visions usually happen when a person is awake.

(See also: vision)

Bible References:

Acts 02:16-17
Daniel 01:17-18
Daniel 02:01
Genesis 37:06
Genesis 40:4-5
Matthew 02:13
Matthew 02:19-21

Word Data:

Strong's: H1957, H2472, H2492, H2493, G1797, G1798, G3677

Forms Found in the English ULB:

dream, dreamed, dreamer, dreamers, dreaming, dreams

elder

Definition:

Elders are spiritually mature men who have responsibilities of spiritual and practical leadership among God's people.

The term "elder" came from the fact that elders were originally older men who, because of their age and experience, had greater wisdom.
In the Old Testament, the elders helped lead the Israelites in matters of social justice and the Law of Moses.
In the New Testament, Jewish elders continued to be leaders in their communities and also were judges for the people.
In the early Christian churches, Christian elders gave spiritual leadership to the local assemblies of believers.
Elders in these churches included young men who were spiritually mature.
This term could be translated as "older men" or "spiritually mature men leading the church."

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 11:1-3
1 Timothy 03:1-3
1 Timothy 04:14
Acts 05:19-21
Acts 14:23
Mark 11:28
Matthew 21:23-24

Word Data:

Strong's: H1419, H2205, H7868, G1087, G3187, G4244, G4245, G4850

Forms Found in the English ULB:

elder, elders

elder

Definition:

Elders are spiritually mature men who have responsibilities of spiritual and practical leadership among God's people.

The term "elder" came from the fact that elders were originally older men who, because of their age and experience, had greater wisdom.
In the Old Testament, the elders helped lead the Israelites in matters of social justice and the Law of Moses.
In the New Testament, Jewish elders continued to be leaders in their communities and also were judges for the people.
In the early Christian churches, Christian elders gave spiritual leadership to the local assemblies of believers.
Elders in these churches included young men who were spiritually mature.
This term could be translated as "older men" or "spiritually mature men leading the church."

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 11:1-3
1 Timothy 03:1-3
1 Timothy 04:14
Acts 05:19-21
Acts 14:23
Mark 11:28
Matthew 21:23-24

Word Data:

Strong's: H1419, H2205, H7868, G1087, G3187, G4244, G4245, G4850

Forms Found in the English ULB:

elder, elders

evil

Related Ideas:

deal violently, displeasing, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly

Definition:

The terms "evil" and "wicked" both refer to anything that is opposed to God's holy character and will.

While "evil" may describe a person's character, "wicked" may refer more to a person's behavior. However, both terms are very similar in meaning.
The term "wickedness" refers to the state of being that exists when people do wicked things.
The results of evil are clearly shown in how people mistreat others by killing, stealing, slandering and being cruel and unkind.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the terms "evil" and "wicked" can be translated as "bad" or "sinful" or "immoral."
Other ways to translate these could include "not good" or "not righteous" or "not moral."
Make sure the words or phrases that are used to translate these terms fit the context that is natural in the target language.

(See also: disobey, sin, good, righteous, demon)

Bible References:

1 Samuel 24:11
1 Timothy 06:10
3 John 01:10
Genesis 02:17
Genesis 06:5-6
Job 01:01
Job 08:20
Judges 09:57
Luke 06:22-23
Matthew 07:11-12
Proverbs 03:07
Psalms 022:16-17

Word Data:

Strong's: H205, H1100, H1431, H1681, H1942, H2154, H2554, H2555, H5765, H2162, H2248, H2254, H3238, H3399, H3415, H4849, H5753, H5766, H5767, H5771, H5807, H5999, H6090, H6184, H6293, H7451, H7455, H7489, H7561, H7562, H7563, H7564, H7701, H8133, G92, G93, G94, G932, G983, G984, G987, G988, G2549, G2551, G2554, G2555, G2556, G2559, G2560, G2635, G2636, G4151, G4189, G4190, G4191, G4550, G5337

Forms Found in the English ULB:

deal violently, deal worse, displeasing, do ... evil, do ... violence, done ... violence, evil, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, evils, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violated, violates, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly, wretches

evil

Related Ideas:

deal violently, displeasing, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly

Definition:

The terms "evil" and "wicked" both refer to anything that is opposed to God's holy character and will.

While "evil" may describe a person's character, "wicked" may refer more to a person's behavior. However, both terms are very similar in meaning.
The term "wickedness" refers to the state of being that exists when people do wicked things.
The results of evil are clearly shown in how people mistreat others by killing, stealing, slandering and being cruel and unkind.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the terms "evil" and "wicked" can be translated as "bad" or "sinful" or "immoral."
Other ways to translate these could include "not good" or "not righteous" or "not moral."
Make sure the words or phrases that are used to translate these terms fit the context that is natural in the target language.

(See also: disobey, sin, good, righteous, demon)

Bible References:

1 Samuel 24:11
1 Timothy 06:10
3 John 01:10
Genesis 02:17
Genesis 06:5-6
Job 01:01
Job 08:20
Judges 09:57
Luke 06:22-23
Matthew 07:11-12
Proverbs 03:07
Psalms 022:16-17

Word Data:

Strong's: H205, H1100, H1431, H1681, H1942, H2154, H2554, H2555, H5765, H2162, H2248, H2254, H3238, H3399, H3415, H4849, H5753, H5766, H5767, H5771, H5807, H5999, H6090, H6184, H6293, H7451, H7455, H7489, H7561, H7562, H7563, H7564, H7701, H8133, G92, G93, G94, G932, G983, G984, G987, G988, G2549, G2551, G2554, G2555, G2556, G2559, G2560, G2635, G2636, G4151, G4189, G4190, G4191, G4550, G5337

Forms Found in the English ULB:

evil

Related Ideas:

deal violently, displeasing, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly

Definition:

The terms "evil" and "wicked" both refer to anything that is opposed to God's holy character and will.

While "evil" may describe a person's character, "wicked" may refer more to a person's behavior. However, both terms are very similar in meaning.
The term "wickedness" refers to the state of being that exists when people do wicked things.
The results of evil are clearly shown in how people mistreat others by killing, stealing, slandering and being cruel and unkind.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the terms "evil" and "wicked" can be translated as "bad" or "sinful" or "immoral."
Other ways to translate these could include "not good" or "not righteous" or "not moral."
Make sure the words or phrases that are used to translate these terms fit the context that is natural in the target language.

(See also: disobey, sin, good, righteous, demon)

Bible References:

1 Samuel 24:11
1 Timothy 06:10
3 John 01:10
Genesis 02:17
Genesis 06:5-6
Job 01:01
Job 08:20
Judges 09:57
Luke 06:22-23
Matthew 07:11-12
Proverbs 03:07
Psalms 022:16-17

Word Data:

Strong's: H205, H1100, H1431, H1681, H1942, H2154, H2554, H2555, H5765, H2162, H2248, H2254, H3238, H3399, H3415, H4849, H5753, H5766, H5767, H5771, H5807, H5999, H6090, H6184, H6293, H7451, H7455, H7489, H7561, H7562, H7563, H7564, H7701, H8133, G92, G93, G94, G932, G983, G984, G987, G988, G2549, G2551, G2554, G2555, G2556, G2559, G2560, G2635, G2636, G4151, G4189, G4190, G4191, G4550, G5337

Forms Found in the English ULB:

evil

Related Ideas:

deal violently, displeasing, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly

Definition:

The terms "evil" and "wicked" both refer to anything that is opposed to God's holy character and will.

While "evil" may describe a person's character, "wicked" may refer more to a person's behavior. However, both terms are very similar in meaning.
The term "wickedness" refers to the state of being that exists when people do wicked things.
The results of evil are clearly shown in how people mistreat others by killing, stealing, slandering and being cruel and unkind.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the terms "evil" and "wicked" can be translated as "bad" or "sinful" or "immoral."
Other ways to translate these could include "not good" or "not righteous" or "not moral."
Make sure the words or phrases that are used to translate these terms fit the context that is natural in the target language.

(See also: disobey, sin, good, righteous, demon)

Bible References:

1 Samuel 24:11
1 Timothy 06:10
3 John 01:10
Genesis 02:17
Genesis 06:5-6
Job 01:01
Job 08:20
Judges 09:57
Luke 06:22-23
Matthew 07:11-12
Proverbs 03:07
Psalms 022:16-17

Word Data:

Strong's: H205, H1100, H1431, H1681, H1942, H2154, H2554, H2555, H5765, H2162, H2248, H2254, H3238, H3399, H3415, H4849, H5753, H5766, H5767, H5771, H5807, H5999, H6090, H6184, H6293, H7451, H7455, H7489, H7561, H7562, H7563, H7564, H7701, H8133, G92, G93, G94, G932, G983, G984, G987, G988, G2549, G2551, G2554, G2555, G2556, G2559, G2560, G2635, G2636, G4151, G4189, G4190, G4191, G4550, G5337

Forms Found in the English ULB:

evildoer

Related Ideas:

do harm, do evil, harmed, work out evil

Definition:

The term "evildoer" is a general reference to people who do sinful and wicked things.

It can also be a general word for people who do not obey God.
This term could be translated using the word for "evil" or "wicked," with the word for "doing" or "making" or "causing" something.

(See also: evil)

Bible References:

1 Peter 02:13-17
Isaiah 09:16-17
Luke 13:25-27
Malachi 03:13-15
Matthew 07:21-23

Word Data:

Strong's: H205, H3637, H6213, H6466, H7451, H7489, G93, G458, G2038, G2040, G2554, G2555

Forms Found in the English ULB:

did ... harm, do ... harm, doing evil, doing harm, evildoer, evildoers, harmed, work out evil

exhort

Related Ideas:

exhortation, urge

Definition:

The term "exhort" means to strongly encourage and urge someone to do what is right. Such encouragement is called "exhortation."

The purpose of exhortation is to persuade other people to avoid sin and follow God's will.
The New Testament teaches Christians to exhort each other in love, not harshly or abruptly.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "exhort" could also be translated as "strongly urge" or "persuade" or "advise."
Make sure the translation of this term does not imply that the exhorter is angry. The term should convey strength and seriousness, but should not refer to angry speech.
In most contexts, the term "exhort" should be translated differently than "encourage," which means to inspire, reassure, or comfort someone.
Usually this term will also be translated differently from "admonish," which means to warn or correct someone for his wrong behavior.

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 02:3-4
1 Thessalonians 02:12
1 Timothy 05:02
Luke 03:18

Word Data:

Strong's: H5927, H6484, G3867, G3870, G3874

Forms Found in the English ULB:

exhort, exhortation, exhortations, exhorted, exhorting, urge, urged

face

Related Ideas:

before, facedown, facial, presence, surface

Definition:

The word "face" literally refers to the front part of a person's head. This term also has several figurative meanings.

The expression "your face" is often a figurative way of saying "you." Similarly, the expression "my face" often means "I" or "me."
In a physical sense, to "face" someone or something means to look in the direction of that person or thing.
To "face each other" means to "look directly at each other."
Being "face to face" means that two people are seeing each other in person, at a close distance.
When Jesus "steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem," it means that he very firmly decided to go.
To "set one's face against" people or a city means to firmly decide to no longer support, or to reject that city or person.
The expression "face of the land" refers to the surface of the earth and often is a general reference to the whole earth. For example, a "famine covering the face of the earth" refers to a widespread famine affecting many people living on earth.
The figurative expression "do not hide your face from your people" means "do not reject your people" or "do not desert your people" or "do not stop taking care of your people."

Translation Suggestions:

If possible, it is best to keep the expression or use an expression in the project language that has a similar meaning.
The term to "face" could be translated as to "turn toward" or to "look at directly" or to "look at the face of."
The expression "face to face" could be translated as "up close" or "right in front of" or "in the presence of."
Depending on the context, the expression "before his face" could be translated as "ahead of him" or "in front of him" or "before him" or "in his presence."
The expression "set his face toward" could be translated as "began traveling toward" or "firmly made up his mind to go to."
The expression "hide his face from" could be translated as "turn away from" or "stop helping or protecting" or "reject."
To "set his face against" a city or people could be translated as "look at with anger and condemn" or "refuse to accept" or "decide to reject" or "condemn and reject" or "pass judgment on."
The expression "say it to their face" could be translated as "say it to them directly" or "say it to them in their presence" or "say it to them in person."
The expression "on the face of the land" could also be translated as "throughout the land" or "over the whole earth" or "living throughout the earth."

Bible References:

Deuteronomy 05:04
Genesis 33:10

Word Data:

Strong's: H600, H639, H2122, H6440, H8389, G3799, G4383, G4750

Forms Found in the English ULB:

before, face, faced, facedown, faces, facial, facing, presence, surface

face

Related Ideas:

before, facedown, facial, presence, surface

Definition:

The word "face" literally refers to the front part of a person's head. This term also has several figurative meanings.

The expression "your face" is often a figurative way of saying "you." Similarly, the expression "my face" often means "I" or "me."
In a physical sense, to "face" someone or something means to look in the direction of that person or thing.
To "face each other" means to "look directly at each other."
Being "face to face" means that two people are seeing each other in person, at a close distance.
When Jesus "steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem," it means that he very firmly decided to go.
To "set one's face against" people or a city means to firmly decide to no longer support, or to reject that city or person.
The expression "face of the land" refers to the surface of the earth and often is a general reference to the whole earth. For example, a "famine covering the face of the earth" refers to a widespread famine affecting many people living on earth.
The figurative expression "do not hide your face from your people" means "do not reject your people" or "do not desert your people" or "do not stop taking care of your people."

Translation Suggestions:

If possible, it is best to keep the expression or use an expression in the project language that has a similar meaning.
The term to "face" could be translated as to "turn toward" or to "look at directly" or to "look at the face of."
The expression "face to face" could be translated as "up close" or "right in front of" or "in the presence of."
Depending on the context, the expression "before his face" could be translated as "ahead of him" or "in front of him" or "before him" or "in his presence."
The expression "set his face toward" could be translated as "began traveling toward" or "firmly made up his mind to go to."
The expression "hide his face from" could be translated as "turn away from" or "stop helping or protecting" or "reject."
To "set his face against" a city or people could be translated as "look at with anger and condemn" or "refuse to accept" or "decide to reject" or "condemn and reject" or "pass judgment on."
The expression "say it to their face" could be translated as "say it to them directly" or "say it to them in their presence" or "say it to them in person."
The expression "on the face of the land" could also be translated as "throughout the land" or "over the whole earth" or "living throughout the earth."

Bible References:

Deuteronomy 05:04
Genesis 33:10

Word Data:

Strong's: H600, H639, H2122, H6440, H8389, G3799, G4383, G4750

Forms Found in the English ULB:

before, face, faced, facedown, faces, facial, facing, presence, surface

faith

Definition:

In general, the term "faith" refers to a belief, trust or confidence in someone or something.

To "have faith" in someone is to believe that what he says and does is true and trustworthy.
To "have faith in Jesus" means to believe all of God's teachings about Jesus. It especially means that people trust in Jesus and his sacrifice to cleanse them from their sin and to rescue them from the punishment they deserve because of their sin.
True faith or belief in Jesus will cause a person to produce good spiritual fruits or behaviors because the Holy Spirit is living in him.
Sometimes "faith" refers generally to all the teachings about Jesus, as in the expression "the truths of the faith."
In contexts such as "keep the faith" or "abandon the faith," the term "faith" refers to the state or condition of believing all the teachings about Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

In some contexts, "faith" can be translated as "belief" or "conviction" or "confidence" or "trust."
For some languages these terms will be translated using forms of the verb "believe."
The expression "keep the faith" could be translated by "keep believing in Jesus" or "continue to believe in Jesus."
The sentence "they must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith" could be translated by "they must keep believing all the true things about Jesus that they have been taught."
The expression "my true son in the faith" could be translated by something like "who is like a son to me because I taught him to believe in Jesus" or "my true spiritual son, who believes in Jesus."

(See also: believe, faithful)

Bible References:

2 Timothy 04:07
Acts 06:7
Galatians 02:20-21
James 02:20

Word Data:

Strong's: H529, H530, G1680, G3640, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

faith

Definition:

In general, the term "faith" refers to a belief, trust or confidence in someone or something.

To "have faith" in someone is to believe that what he says and does is true and trustworthy.
To "have faith in Jesus" means to believe all of God's teachings about Jesus. It especially means that people trust in Jesus and his sacrifice to cleanse them from their sin and to rescue them from the punishment they deserve because of their sin.
True faith or belief in Jesus will cause a person to produce good spiritual fruits or behaviors because the Holy Spirit is living in him.
Sometimes "faith" refers generally to all the teachings about Jesus, as in the expression "the truths of the faith."
In contexts such as "keep the faith" or "abandon the faith," the term "faith" refers to the state or condition of believing all the teachings about Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

In some contexts, "faith" can be translated as "belief" or "conviction" or "confidence" or "trust."
For some languages these terms will be translated using forms of the verb "believe."
The expression "keep the faith" could be translated by "keep believing in Jesus" or "continue to believe in Jesus."
The sentence "they must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith" could be translated by "they must keep believing all the true things about Jesus that they have been taught."
The expression "my true son in the faith" could be translated by something like "who is like a son to me because I taught him to believe in Jesus" or "my true spiritual son, who believes in Jesus."

(See also: believe, faithful)

Bible References:

2 Timothy 04:07
Acts 06:7
Galatians 02:20-21
James 02:20

Word Data:

Strong's: H529, H530, G1680, G3640, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

faith

Definition:

In general, the term "faith" refers to a belief, trust or confidence in someone or something.

To "have faith" in someone is to believe that what he says and does is true and trustworthy.
To "have faith in Jesus" means to believe all of God's teachings about Jesus. It especially means that people trust in Jesus and his sacrifice to cleanse them from their sin and to rescue them from the punishment they deserve because of their sin.
True faith or belief in Jesus will cause a person to produce good spiritual fruits or behaviors because the Holy Spirit is living in him.
Sometimes "faith" refers generally to all the teachings about Jesus, as in the expression "the truths of the faith."
In contexts such as "keep the faith" or "abandon the faith," the term "faith" refers to the state or condition of believing all the teachings about Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

In some contexts, "faith" can be translated as "belief" or "conviction" or "confidence" or "trust."
For some languages these terms will be translated using forms of the verb "believe."
The expression "keep the faith" could be translated by "keep believing in Jesus" or "continue to believe in Jesus."
The sentence "they must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith" could be translated by "they must keep believing all the true things about Jesus that they have been taught."
The expression "my true son in the faith" could be translated by something like "who is like a son to me because I taught him to believe in Jesus" or "my true spiritual son, who believes in Jesus."

(See also: believe, faithful)

Bible References:

2 Timothy 04:07
Acts 06:7
Galatians 02:20-21
James 02:20

Word Data:

Strong's: H529, H530, G1680, G3640, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

faith

faithful

Related Ideas:

faithfully, faithfulness, reliable

Definition:

To be "faithful" to God means to consistently live according to God's teachings. It means to be loyal to him by obeying him.The state or condition of being faithful is "faithfulness."

A person who is faithful can be trusted to always keep his promises and to always fulfill his responsibilities to other people.
A faithful person perseveres in doing a task, even when it is long and difficult.
Faithfulness to God is the consistent practice of doing what God wants us to do.

The term "unfaithful" describes people who do not do what God has commanded them to do. The condition or practice of being unfaithful is "unfaithfulness."

The people of Israel were called "unfaithful" when they began to worship idols and when they disobeyed God in other ways.
In marriage, someone who commits adultery is "unfaithful" to his or her spouse.
God used the term "unfaithfulness" to describe Israel's disobedient behavior. They were not obeying God or honoring him.

Translation Suggestions:

Translating "faithful" and "faithfulness" * In many contexts, "faithful" can be translated as "loyal" or "dedicated" or "dependable." * In other contexts, "faithful" can be translated by a word or phrase that means "continuing to believe" or "persevering in believing and obeying God." * Ways that "faithfulness" could be translated could include "persevering in believing" or "loyalty" or "trustworthiness" or "believing and obeying God."

Translating "unfaithful" and "unfaithfulness" * Depending on the context, "unfaithful" could be translated as "not faithful" or "unbelieving" or "not obedient" or "not loyal." * The phrase "the unfaithful" could be translated as "people who are not faithful (to God)" or "unfaithful people" or "those who disobey God" or "people who rebel against God." * The term "unfaithfulness" could be translated as "disobedience" or "disloyalty" or "not believing or obeying." * In some languages, the term "unfaithful" is related to the word for "unbelief."

(See also: adultery, believe, disobey, faith, believe)

Bible References:

Genesis 24:49
Leviticus 26:40
Numbers 12:07
Joshua 02:14
Judges 02:16-17
1 Samuel 02:9
Psalm 012:1
Proverbs 11:12-13
Isaiah 01:26
Jeremiah 09:7-9
Hosea 05:07
Luke 12:46
Luke 16:10
Colossians 01:07
1 Thessalonians 05:24
3 John 01:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H529, H530, H539, H540, H571, H2181, H2616, H2623, H4603, H4820, G569, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

faithful, faithful one, faithful people, faithfully, faithfulness, reliable, show ... self ... faithful

faithful

Related Ideas:

faithfully, faithfulness, reliable

Definition:

To be "faithful" to God means to consistently live according to God's teachings. It means to be loyal to him by obeying him.The state or condition of being faithful is "faithfulness."

A person who is faithful can be trusted to always keep his promises and to always fulfill his responsibilities to other people.
A faithful person perseveres in doing a task, even when it is long and difficult.
Faithfulness to God is the consistent practice of doing what God wants us to do.

The term "unfaithful" describes people who do not do what God has commanded them to do. The condition or practice of being unfaithful is "unfaithfulness."

The people of Israel were called "unfaithful" when they began to worship idols and when they disobeyed God in other ways.
In marriage, someone who commits adultery is "unfaithful" to his or her spouse.
God used the term "unfaithfulness" to describe Israel's disobedient behavior. They were not obeying God or honoring him.

Translation Suggestions:

(See also: adultery, believe, disobey, faith, believe)

Bible References:

Genesis 24:49
Leviticus 26:40
Numbers 12:07
Joshua 02:14
Judges 02:16-17
1 Samuel 02:9
Psalm 012:1
Proverbs 11:12-13
Isaiah 01:26
Jeremiah 09:7-9
Hosea 05:07
Luke 12:46
Luke 16:10
Colossians 01:07
1 Thessalonians 05:24
3 John 01:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H529, H530, H539, H540, H571, H2181, H2616, H2623, H4603, H4820, G569, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

faithful, faithful one, faithful people, faithfully, faithfulness, reliable, show ... self ... faithful

false prophet

Definition:

A false prophet is a person who wrongly claims that his message comes from God.

The prophecies of false prophets are not usually fulfilled. That is, they do not come true.
False prophets teach messages that partially or totally contradict what the Bible says.
This term could also be translated as "person who falsely claims to be God's spokesman" or "someone who falsely claims to speak God's words."
The New Testament teaches that in the end times there will be many false prophets who will try to deceive people into thinking that they come from God.

(See also: fulfill, prophet, true)

Bible References:

1 John 04:1-3
2 Peter 02:01
Acts 13:6-8
Luke 06:26
Matthew 07:16
Matthew 24:23-25

Word Data:

Strong's: G5578

Forms Found in the English ULB:

false prophet, false prophets

father

Related Ideas:

ancestor, ancestral, beget, fatherless, forefather, grandfather, orphan

Definition:

When used literally, the term "father" refers to a person's male parent. * A "grandfather" is someone's father's father or someone's mother's father. * A "forefather" is one of a person's male ancestors, such as his grandfather's grandfather. * An "ancestral household" is a social unit of those people who are descended from one ancestor. * A person who is "fatherless" does not have a father. * An "orphan" is a person who has no parents. In Bible times widows were often not able to care for their children, so a child with a mother but no father could also be thought of as an orphan. * To "beget" someone is to become that person's father.

There are also several figurative uses of the term "father."

The term "fathers" often refers to a person's male ancestors, such as his grandfather's grandfather.
The term "father" can refer to a person who is the leader a group of related people or the source of something. For example, in Genesis 4 "the father of all who live in tents" could mean, "the first clan leader of the first people who ever lived in tents."
The apostle Paul called himself the "father" of those he had helped to become Christians through sharing the gospel with them.

Translation Suggestions

When talking about a father and his literal son, this term should be translated using the usual term to refer to a father in the language.
"God the Father" should also be translated using the usual, common word for "father."
When referring to forefathers, this term could be translated as "ancestors" or "ancestral fathers."
Sometimes the word "father" can be translated as "clan leader."
When Paul refers to himself figuratively as a father to believers in Christ, this could be translated as "spiritual father" or "father in Christ."
The phrase "father of all lies" could be translated as "source of all lies" or "the one from whom all lies come."

(See also: God the Father, son, Son of God)

Bible References:

Acts 07:02
Acts 07:32
Acts 07:45
Acts 22:03
Genesis 31:30
Genesis 31:42
Genesis 31:53
Hebrews 07:4-6
John 04:12
Joshua 24:3-4
Malachi 03:07
Mark 10:7-9
Matthew 01:07
Matthew 03:09
Matthew 10:21
Matthew 18:14
Romans 04:12

Word Data:

Strong's: H1, H2, H25, H539, H1730, H1733, H2524, H3205, H3490, H4940, H5971, H7223, G540, G1080, G3737, G3962, G3964, G3966, G3967, G3970, G3971, G3995, G4245, G4269, G4613

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ancestor, ancestor's, ancestors, ancestors', ancestral, beget, begot, father, father's, fathered, fathering, fatherless, fathers, fathers', forefather, forefathers, grandfather, orphan, orphans

fear

Related Ideas:

afraid, alarmed, anxiety, coward, dismay, dread, fainthearted, fearful, fearlessly, fearsome, frighten, timid, unafraid

Definition:

The terms "fear" and "afraid" refer to the unpleasant feeling a person has when there is a threat of harm to himself or others.

The term "fear" can also refer to a deep respect and awe for a person in authority.
The phrase "fear of Yahweh," as well as related terms "fear of God" and "fear of the Lord," refer to a deep respect of God and the showing of that respect by obeying him. This fear is motivated by knowing that God is holy and hates sin.
The Bible teaches that a person who fears Yahweh will become wise.
"Anxiety" is fear about the future, what is going to happen.
To be "alarmed" is to be surprised and afraid because something bad has suddenly happened.
"Dread" is great fear.
Someone who is "timid" is afraid to act because something bad might happen as a result.
Someone who is "unafraid" is not afraid.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, to "fear" can be translated as to "be afraid" or to "deeply respect" or to "revere" or to "be in awe of."
The term "afraid" could be translated as "terrified" or "scared" or "fearful."
The sentence "The fear of God fell on all of them" could be translated as "Suddenly they all felt a deep awe and respect for God" or "Immediately, they all felt very amazed and revered God deeply" or "Right then, they all felt very afraid of God (because of his great power)."
The phrase "fear not" could also be translated as "do not be afraid" or "stop being afraid."
Note that the phrase "fear of Yahweh" does not occur in the New Testament. The phrase "fear of the Lord" or "fear of the Lord God" is used instead.

(See also: amazed, awe, lord, power, Yahweh)

Bible References:

1 John 04:18
Acts 02:43
Acts 19:15-17
Genesis 50:21
Isaiah 11:3-5
Job 06:14
Jonah 01:09
Luke 12:05
Matthew 10:28
Proverbs 10:24-25

Word Data:

Strong's: H367, H926, H928, H1204, H1481, H1672, H1674, H1763, H2119, H2729, H2730, H2731, H2844, H2849, H2865, H3016, H3025, H3372, H3373, H3374, H4032, H4034, H4035, H4116, H4172, H6206, H6342, H6343, H6345, H6427, H7264, H7267, H7297, H7390, H7461, H7493, H8175, G870, G1167, G1168, G1169, G1568, G1630, G1719, G2125, G5398, G5399, G5401

Forms Found in the English ULB:

afraid, alarmed, anxiety, cowards, dismay, dismayed, dread, dreaded, fainthearted, fear, feared, fearful, fearful thing, fearlessly, fears, fearsome, frighten, frightened, timid, unafraid

fear

Related Ideas:

afraid, alarmed, anxiety, coward, dismay, dread, fainthearted, fearful, fearlessly, fearsome, frighten, timid, unafraid

Definition:

The terms "fear" and "afraid" refer to the unpleasant feeling a person has when there is a threat of harm to himself or others.

The term "fear" can also refer to a deep respect and awe for a person in authority.
The phrase "fear of Yahweh," as well as related terms "fear of God" and "fear of the Lord," refer to a deep respect of God and the showing of that respect by obeying him. This fear is motivated by knowing that God is holy and hates sin.
The Bible teaches that a person who fears Yahweh will become wise.
"Anxiety" is fear about the future, what is going to happen.
To be "alarmed" is to be surprised and afraid because something bad has suddenly happened.
"Dread" is great fear.
Someone who is "timid" is afraid to act because something bad might happen as a result.
Someone who is "unafraid" is not afraid.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, to "fear" can be translated as to "be afraid" or to "deeply respect" or to "revere" or to "be in awe of."
The term "afraid" could be translated as "terrified" or "scared" or "fearful."
The sentence "The fear of God fell on all of them" could be translated as "Suddenly they all felt a deep awe and respect for God" or "Immediately, they all felt very amazed and revered God deeply" or "Right then, they all felt very afraid of God (because of his great power)."
The phrase "fear not" could also be translated as "do not be afraid" or "stop being afraid."
Note that the phrase "fear of Yahweh" does not occur in the New Testament. The phrase "fear of the Lord" or "fear of the Lord God" is used instead.

(See also: amazed, awe, lord, power, Yahweh)

Bible References:

1 John 04:18
Acts 02:43
Acts 19:15-17
Genesis 50:21
Isaiah 11:3-5
Job 06:14
Jonah 01:09
Luke 12:05
Matthew 10:28
Proverbs 10:24-25

Word Data:

Strong's: H367, H926, H928, H1204, H1481, H1672, H1674, H1763, H2119, H2729, H2730, H2731, H2844, H2849, H2865, H3016, H3025, H3372, H3373, H3374, H4032, H4034, H4035, H4116, H4172, H6206, H6342, H6343, H6345, H6427, H7264, H7267, H7297, H7390, H7461, H7493, H8175, G870, G1167, G1168, G1169, G1568, G1630, G1719, G2125, G5398, G5399, G5401

Forms Found in the English ULB:

afraid, alarmed, anxiety, cowards, dismay, dismayed, dread, dreaded, fainthearted, fear, feared, fearful, fearful thing, fearlessly, fears, fearsome, frighten, frightened, timid, unafraid

feast

Related Ideas:

dinner

Definition:

The term "feast" refers to an event where a group of people eat a very large meal together, often for the purpose of celebrating something. The action to "feast" means to eat a large amount of food or to participate in eating a feast together.

Often there are special kinds of food that are eaten at a certain feast.
The religious festivals that God commanded the Jews to celebrate usually included having a feast together. For this reason the festivals are often called "feasts."
In Bible times, kings and other rich and powerful people often gave feasts to entertain their family or friends.
In the story about the lost son, the father had a special feast prepared to celebrate the return of his son.
A feast sometimes lasted for several days or more.
The term to "feast" could also be translated as to "eat lavishly" or to "celebrate by eating lots of food" or to "eat a special, large meal."
Depending on the context, "feast" could be translated as "celebrating together with a large meal" or "a meal with a lot of food" or "a celebration meal."

(See also: festival)

Bible References:

2 Peter 02:12-14
Genesis 26:30
Genesis 29:22
Genesis 40:20
Jude 01:12-13
Luke 02:43
Luke 14:7-9
Matthew 22:01

Word Data:

Strong's: H398, H2077, H2282, H3899, H3900, H4150, H4797, H4960, H7646, H8057, H8354, G26, G1173, G1859, G2165, G4910

Forms Found in the English ULB:

dinner, feast, feasting, feasts

fellowship

Related Ideas:

alliance, associate with, association, allied with, contribution, participants with, partnership, share, united

Definition:

In general, the term "fellowship" refers to friendly interactions between members of a group of people who share similar interests and experiences.

In the Bible, the term "fellowship" usually refers to the unity of believers in Christ.
Christian fellowship is a shared relationship that believers have with one another through their relationship with Christ and the Holy Spirit.
The early Christians expressed their fellowship through listening to the teaching of God's Word and praying together, through the sharing of their belongings, and through eating meals together.
Christians also have fellowship with God through their faith in Jesus and his sacrificial death on the cross which removed the barrier between God and people.
An "alliance" is a kind of fellowship between governments in which the governments agree to work together, usually to fight common enemies.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "fellowship" could include "a sharing together" or "relationship" or "companionship" or "Christian community."

Bible References:

1 John 01:03
Acts 02:40-42
Philippians 01:3-6
Philippians 02:01
Philippians 03:10
Psalms 055:12-14

Word Data:

Strong's: H2266, H2270, H4541, H6148, H8641, G2842, G2844, G3352, G3353, G4790

Forms Found in the English ULB:

alliance, alliances, associate with, association, be allied with, be participants with, contribution, contributions, fellowship, participant, participants, partnership, share, sharers, shares, sharing, united

fir

Definition:

A fir tree is a kind of tree that stays green all year and has cones that contain seeds.

Fir trees are also referred to as "evergreen" trees.
In ancient times, the wood of fir trees was used for making musical instruments and for building structures such as boats, houses, and the temple.
Some examples of fir trees mentioned in the Bible are pine, cedar, cypress, and juniper.

(See also: cedar, cypress)

Bible References:

Ezekiel 27:4-5
Isaiah 37:24-25
Isaiah 41:19-20
Isaiah 44:14
Isaiah 60:12-13
Psalms 104:16-18

Word Data:

Strong's: H766, H1265, H1266

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fir, firs

fir

Definition:

A fir tree is a kind of tree that stays green all year and has cones that contain seeds.

Fir trees are also referred to as "evergreen" trees.
In ancient times, the wood of fir trees was used for making musical instruments and for building structures such as boats, houses, and the temple.
Some examples of fir trees mentioned in the Bible are pine, cedar, cypress, and juniper.

(See also: cedar, cypress)

Bible References:

Ezekiel 27:4-5
Isaiah 37:24-25
Isaiah 41:19-20
Isaiah 44:14
Isaiah 60:12-13
Psalms 104:16-18

Word Data:

Strong's: H766, H1265, H1266

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fir, firs

fir

Definition:

A fir tree is a kind of tree that stays green all year and has cones that contain seeds.

Fir trees are also referred to as "evergreen" trees.
In ancient times, the wood of fir trees was used for making musical instruments and for building structures such as boats, houses, and the temple.
Some examples of fir trees mentioned in the Bible are pine, cedar, cypress, and juniper.

(See also: cedar, cypress)

Bible References:

Ezekiel 27:4-5
Isaiah 37:24-25
Isaiah 41:19-20
Isaiah 44:14
Isaiah 60:12-13
Psalms 104:16-18

Word Data:

Strong's: H766, H1265, H1266

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fir, firs

fire

Related Ideas:

blazing, fiery, firebrands, inflame, kindle

Definition:

Fire is the heat, light, and flames that are produced when something is burned.

A fire that is "blazing" is very hot and has large flames.
A "fire brand" is a piece of burning wood.
To "set on fire" or "set fire to" something is to make it start burning with fire.
To "inflame" something is to make it start burning.
To "kindle" a fire is to start that fire burning.
The final judgment of unbelievers is in the fire of hell.

The word "fire" and ideas related to fire are also used figuratively. * The term "fire" can refer to judgment or purification. * The phrase "baptize with fire" could also be translated as "cause to experience suffering in order to be purified." * Fire is used to refine gold and other metals. In the Bible, this process is used to explain how God refines people through difficult things that happen in their lives.

(See also: pure)

Bible References:

1 Kings 16:18-20
2 Kings 01:10
2 Thessalonians 01:08
Acts 07:29-30
John 15:06
Luke 03:16
Matthew 03:12
Nehemiah 01:3

Word Data:

Strong's: H217, H398, H784, H800, H801, H1197, H1200, H1513, H1814, H2734, H2740, H3341, H3857, H4168, H5135, H6315, G439, G440, G1067, G2741, G2618, G4442, G4443, G4447, G4448, G4451, G5394, G5457

Forms Found in the English ULB:

blazing, fiery, fire, firebrands, fires, flaming, kindle, kindled, kindles, set fire to, set ... on fire, sets ... on fire

flesh

Related Ideas:

fleshly, human, living creatures, meat, physical

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "flesh" literally refers to the soft tissue of the physical body of a human being or animal.

The Bible also uses the term "flesh" in a figurative way to refer to all human beings or all living creatures.
In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to talk about something that is associated with being human. For example, to decide something according to the flesh means to decide something according to human standards.
In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to refer to the sinful nature of human beings. This is often used in contrast to their spiritual nature.
The expression "own flesh and blood" refers to someone who is biologically related to another person, such as a parent, sibling, child, or grandchild.
The expression "flesh and blood" can also refer to a person's ancestors or descendants.
The expression "one flesh" refers to the physical uniting of a man and woman in marriage.

Translation Suggestions:

In the context of an animal's body, "flesh" could be translated as "body" or "skin" or "meat."
When it is used to refer generally to all living creatures, this term could be translated as "living beings" or "everything that is alive."
When referring in general to all people, this term could be translated as "people" or "human beings" or "everyone who lives."
The expression "flesh and blood" could also be translated as "relatives" or "family" or "kinfolk" or "family clan." There may be contexts where it could be translated as "ancestors" or "descendants."
Some languages may have an expression that is similar in meaning to "flesh and blood."
The expression "become one flesh" could be translated as "unite sexually" or "become as one body" or "become like one person in body and spirit." The translation of this expression should be checked to make sure it is acceptable in the project language and culture. . It should also be understood that this is figurative, and does not mean that a man and a woman who "become one flesh" literally become one person.

Bible References:

1 John 02:16
2 John 01:07
Ephesians 06:12
Galatians 01:16
Genesis 02:24
John 01:14
Matthew 16:17
Romans 08:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H120, H829, H1320, H1321, H2878, H7607, H7683, G2907, G4559, G4561

Forms Found in the English ULB:

flesh, fleshly, human, humans, living creatures, meat, physical

flesh

Related Ideas:

fleshly, human, living creatures, meat, physical

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "flesh" literally refers to the soft tissue of the physical body of a human being or animal.

The Bible also uses the term "flesh" in a figurative way to refer to all human beings or all living creatures.
In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to talk about something that is associated with being human. For example, to decide something according to the flesh means to decide something according to human standards.
In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to refer to the sinful nature of human beings. This is often used in contrast to their spiritual nature.
The expression "own flesh and blood" refers to someone who is biologically related to another person, such as a parent, sibling, child, or grandchild.
The expression "flesh and blood" can also refer to a person's ancestors or descendants.
The expression "one flesh" refers to the physical uniting of a man and woman in marriage.

Translation Suggestions:

In the context of an animal's body, "flesh" could be translated as "body" or "skin" or "meat."
When it is used to refer generally to all living creatures, this term could be translated as "living beings" or "everything that is alive."
When referring in general to all people, this term could be translated as "people" or "human beings" or "everyone who lives."
The expression "flesh and blood" could also be translated as "relatives" or "family" or "kinfolk" or "family clan." There may be contexts where it could be translated as "ancestors" or "descendants."
Some languages may have an expression that is similar in meaning to "flesh and blood."
The expression "become one flesh" could be translated as "unite sexually" or "become as one body" or "become like one person in body and spirit." The translation of this expression should be checked to make sure it is acceptable in the project language and culture. . It should also be understood that this is figurative, and does not mean that a man and a woman who "become one flesh" literally become one person.

Bible References:

1 John 02:16
2 John 01:07
Ephesians 06:12
Galatians 01:16
Genesis 02:24
John 01:14
Matthew 16:17
Romans 08:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H120, H829, H1320, H1321, H2878, H7607, H7683, G2907, G4559, G4561

Forms Found in the English ULB:

flesh, fleshly, human, humans, living creatures, meat, physical

flesh

Related Ideas:

fleshly, human, living creatures, meat, physical

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "flesh" literally refers to the soft tissue of the physical body of a human being or animal.

The Bible also uses the term "flesh" in a figurative way to refer to all human beings or all living creatures.
In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to talk about something that is associated with being human. For example, to decide something according to the flesh means to decide something according to human standards.
In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to refer to the sinful nature of human beings. This is often used in contrast to their spiritual nature.
The expression "own flesh and blood" refers to someone who is biologically related to another person, such as a parent, sibling, child, or grandchild.
The expression "flesh and blood" can also refer to a person's ancestors or descendants.
The expression "one flesh" refers to the physical uniting of a man and woman in marriage.

Translation Suggestions:

In the context of an animal's body, "flesh" could be translated as "body" or "skin" or "meat."
When it is used to refer generally to all living creatures, this term could be translated as "living beings" or "everything that is alive."
When referring in general to all people, this term could be translated as "people" or "human beings" or "everyone who lives."
The expression "flesh and blood" could also be translated as "relatives" or "family" or "kinfolk" or "family clan." There may be contexts where it could be translated as "ancestors" or "descendants."
Some languages may have an expression that is similar in meaning to "flesh and blood."
The expression "become one flesh" could be translated as "unite sexually" or "become as one body" or "become like one person in body and spirit." The translation of this expression should be checked to make sure it is acceptable in the project language and culture. . It should also be understood that this is figurative, and does not mean that a man and a woman who "become one flesh" literally become one person.

Bible References:

1 John 02:16
2 John 01:07
Ephesians 06:12
Galatians 01:16
Genesis 02:24
John 01:14
Matthew 16:17
Romans 08:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H120, H829, H1320, H1321, H2878, H7607, H7683, G2907, G4559, G4561

Forms Found in the English ULB:

flesh, fleshly, human, humans, living creatures, meat, physical

forgive

Related Ideas:

forgiven, forgiveness, pardon

Definition:

To forgive someone means to not hold a grudge against that person even though they did something hurtful. "Forgiveness" is the act of forgiving someone.

Forgiving someone often means not punishing that person for something he has done wrong.
This term can be used figuratively to mean "cancel," as in the expression "forgive a debt."
When people confess their sins, God forgives them based on Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross.
Jesus taught his disciples to forgive others as he has forgiven them.

The term "pardon" means to forgive and not punish someone for his sin.

This word has the same meaning as "forgive" but may also include the meaning of a formal decision to not punish someone who is guilty.
In a court of law, a judge can pardon a person found guilty of a crime.
Even though we are guilty of sin, Jesus Christ pardoned us from being punished in hell, based on his sacrificial death on the cross.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "forgive" could be translated as "pardon" or "cancel" or "release" or "not hold against" (someone).
The term "forgiveness" could be translated by a word or phrase that means "practice of not resenting" or "declaring (someone) as not guilty" or "the act of pardoning."
If the language has a word for a formal decision to forgive, that word could be used to translate "pardon."

(See also: guilt)

Bible References:

Genesis 50:17
Numbers 14:17-19
Deuteronomy 29:20-21
Joshua 24:19-20
2 Kings 05:17-19
Psalms 025:11
Psalms 025:17-19
Isaiah 55:6-7
Isaiah 40:02
Luke 05:21
Acts 08:22
Ephesians 04:31-32
Colossians 03:12-14
1 John 02:12

Word Data:

Strong's: H5546, H5547, H3722, H5375, H5545, H5547, G859, G863, G2433, G5483

Forms Found in the English ULB:

forgave, forgive, forgiven, forgiveness, forgives, pardon, pardoned

found

Related Ideas:

establish, foundation, founder

Definition:

The verb "found" means build, create, or lay a base for. The phrase "founded on" means supported by or based on. A "foundation" is the base of support on which something is built or created.

The foundation of a house or building must be strong and dependable in order to support the entire structure.
The term "foundation" can also refer to the beginning of something or to the time when something was first created.
In a figurative sense, believers in Christ are compared to a building that is founded on the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ himself being the cornerstone of the building.
A "foundation stone" was a stone that was laid as part of the foundation. These stones were tested to make sure they were strong enough to support an entire building.
To "establish" something is for a person to start or make or create something that he wants to endure for a long time.

Translation Suggestions:

The phrase "before the foundation of the world" could be translated as "before the creation of the world" or "before the time when the world first existed" or "before everything was first created."
The term "founded on" could be translated as "securely built on" or "firmly based on."
Depending on the context, "foundation" could be translated as "strong base" or "solid support" or "beginning" or "creation."

(See also: cornerstone, create)

Bible References:

1 Kings 06:37-38
2 Chronicles 03:1-3
Ezekiel 13:13-14
Luke 14:29
Matthew 13:35
Matthew 25:34

Word Data:

Strong's: H134, H553, H787, H2713, H3245, H3247, H3248, H3559, H3772, H4143, H4144, H4146, H4328, H4349, H4527, H5975, H7760, H8356, G747, G950, G1457, G2310, G2311, G2602

Forms Found in the English ULB:

established, establishes, found, foundation, foundations, founded, founder, founds, lay ... foundation, lay ... foundations

fruit

Related Ideas:

bear fruit, crop, fruitful, produce, productive land, unfruitful

Definition:

The term "fruit" literally refers to the part of a plant that can be eaten. * A "fruitful" plant is one that has a lot of good fruit. * The expression "fruit of the land" refers generally to everything that the land produces for people to eat. This includes not only fruits such as grapes or dates, but also vegetables, nuts, and grains. * The term "crop" can refer to what people have planted for for food. * The term "crop" can refer to the food that is harvested at one time.

Sometimes the term "fruit" and ideas related to it are used figuratively. * In general, the expression "fruit of" refers to anything that comes from or that is produced by something else. For example, the "fruit of wisdom" refers to the good things that come from being wise. * The expression "fruit of the womb" refers to "what the womb produces"—that is, children. * The Bible often uses "fruit" to refer to a person's actions. Just as fruit on a tree shows what kind of tree it is, in the same way a person's words and actions reveal what his character is like. * The expression "fruit of the Spirit" refers to godly qualities that the Holy Spirit produces in the lives of people who obey him. * The term "fruitful" can be used figuratively to mean "prosperous." This often refers to having many children and descendants, as well as having plenty of food and other wealth.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate this term using the general word for "fruit" that is commonly used in the project language to refer to the edible fruit of a fruit tree. In many languages it may be more natural to use the plural "fruits" whenever it refers to more than one fruit.
Depending on the context, the term "fruitful" could be translated as "producing much spiritual fruit" or "having many children" or "prosperous."
The expression "fruit of the land" could also be translated as "food that the land produces" or "food crops that are growing in that region."
When God created animals and people, he commanded them to "be fruitful and multiply," which refers to having many offspring. This could also be translated as "have many offspring" or "have many children and descendants" or "have many children so that you will have many descendants."
The expression "fruit of the womb" could be translated as "what the womb produces" or "children a women gives birth to" or just "children." When Elizabeth says to Mary "blessed is the fruit of your womb," she means "blessed is the child you will give birth to." The project language may also have a different expression for this.
Another expression "fruit of the vine," could be translated as "vine fruit" or "grapes."
Depending on the context, the expression "will be more fruitful" could also be translated as "will produce more fruit" or "will have more children" or "will be prosperous."
The apostle Paul's expression "fruitful labor" could be translated as "work that brings very good results" or "efforts that result in many people believing in Jesus."
The "fruit of the Spirit" could also be translated as "works that the Holy Spirit produces" or "words and actions that show that the Holy Spirit is working in someone."

(See also: descendant, grain, grape, Holy Spirit, vine, womb)

Bible References:

Galatians 05:23
Genesis 01:11
Luke 08:15
Matthew 03:08
Matthew 07:17

Word Data:

Strong's: H4, H1061, H1063, H1069, H2233, H2981, H3018, H3581, H3759, H3899, H3978, H4022, H5108, H6499, H6509, H6529, H6631, H7019, H8393, H8570, G1081, G2590, G2592, G2593, G3703, G5052, G5352

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bear fruit, crop, crops, fruit, fruitful, fruits, produce, productive land, unfruitful

glory

Related Ideas:

beautiful, beauty, glorify, glorious, take pride

Definition:

In general, the term "glory" means honor, splendor, and extreme greatness. Anything that has glory is said to be "glorious."

Sometimes "glory" refers to something of great value and importance. In other contexts it communicates splendor, brightness, or judgment.
For example, the expression "glory of the shepherds" refers to the lush pastures where their sheep had plenty of grass to eat.
Glory is especially used to describe God, who is more glorious than anyone or anything in the universe. Everything in his character reveals his glory and his splendor.
The expression to "glory in" means to boast about or take pride in something.

The term "glorify" means to show or tell how great and important something or someone is. It literally means to "give glory to."

People can glorify God by telling about the wonderful things he has done.
They can also glorify God by living in a way that honors him and shows how great and magnificent he is.
When the Bible says that God glorifies himself, it means that he reveals to people his amazing greatness, often through miracles.
God the Father will glorify God the Son by revealing to people the Son's perfection, splendor, and greatness.
Everyone who believes in Christ will be glorified with him. When they are raised to life, they will be changed to reflect his glory and to display his grace to all creation.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, different ways to translate "glory" could include "splendor" or "brightness" or "majesty" or "awesome greatness" or "extreme value."
The term "glorious" could be translated as "full of glory" or "extremely valuable" or "brightly shining" or "awesomely majestic."
The expression "give glory to God" could be translated as "honor God's greatness" or "praise God because of his splendor" or "tell others how great God is."
The expression "glory in" could also be translated as "praise" or "take pride in" or "boast about" or "take pleasure in."
"Glorify" could also be translated as "give glory to" or "bring glory to" or "cause to appear great."
The phrase "glorify God" could also be translated as "praise God" or "talk about God's greatness" or "show how great God is" or "honor God (by obeying him)."
The term "be glorified" could also be translated as, "be shown to be very great" or "be praised" or "be exalted."

(See also: exalt, obey, praise)

Bible References:

Exodus 24:17
Numbers 14:9-10
Isaiah 35:02
Luke 18:43
Luke 02:09
John 12:28
Acts 03:13-14
Acts 07:1-3
Romans 08:17
1 Corinthians 06:19-20
Philippians 02:14-16
Philippians 04:19
Colossians 03:1-4
1 Thessalonians 02:05
James 02:1-4
1 Peter 04:15-16
Revelation 15:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H117, H142, H155, H1342, H1926, H1927, H1935, H1984, H2896, H3367, H3513, H3519, H3520, H5278, H6286, H6643, H7623, H8231, H8597, G1391, G1392, G1740, G1741, G2570, G2744, G4888

Forms Found in the English ULB:

beautiful, beauty, glories, glorified, glorifies, glorify, glorifying, glorious, glory, take pride

god

Related Ideas:

disgusting figure, false god, goat idols, goddess, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry

Definition:

A false god is something that people worship instead of the one true God. The term "goddess" refers specifically to a female false god.

These false gods or goddesses do not exist. Yahweh is the only God.
People sometimes make objects into idols to worship as symbols of their false gods.
In the Bible, God's people frequently turned away from obeying him in order to worship false gods.
Demons often deceive people into believing that the false gods and idols they worship have power.
Baal, Dagon, and Molech were three of the many false gods that were worshiped by people in Bible times.
Asherah and Artemis (Diana) were two of the goddesses that ancient peoples worshiped.

An idol is an object that people make so they can worship it. Something is described as "idolatrous" if it involves giving honor to something other than the one true God.

People make idols to represent the false gods that they worship.
These false gods do not exist; there is no God besides Yahweh.
Sometimes demons work through an idol to make it seem like it has power, even though it does not.
Idols are often made of valuable materials like gold, silver, bronze, or expensive wood.
An "idolatrous kingdom" means a "kingdom of people who worship idols" or a "kingdom of people who worship earthly things."
The term "idolatrous figure" is another word for a "carved image" or an "idol."

Translation Suggestions:

There may already be a word for "god" or "false god" in the language or in a nearby language.
The term "idol" could be used to refer to false gods.
In English, a lower case "g" is used to refer to false gods, and upper case "G" is used to refer to the one true God. Other languages also do that.
Another option would be to use a completely different word to refer to the false gods.
Some languages may add a word to specify whether the false god is described as male or female.

(See also: God, Asherah, Baal, Molech, demon, image, kingdom, worship)

Bible References:

Genesis 35:02
Exodus 32:01
Psalms 031:06
Psalms 081:8-10
Isaiah 44:20
Acts 07:41
Acts 07:43
Acts 15:20
Acts 19:27
Romans 02:22
Galatians 04:8-9
Galatians 05:19-21
Colossians 03:05
1 Thessalonians 01:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H205, H367, H410, H426, H430, H457, H1322, H1544, H1892, H3649, H4656, H4906, H5236, H5566, H6090, H6091, H6456, H6459, H6673, H6736, H6754, H7723, H8163, H8251, H8267, H8441, H8655, G1140, G1493, G1494, G1495, G1496, G1497, G2299, G2712

Forms Found in the English ULB:

disgusting figure, disgusting figures, false god, goat idols, god, goddess, gods, idol, idol's, idolater, idolaters, idolatrous, idolatry, idols, idols'

godly

Related Ideas:

godless, godless actions, godlessness, godliness, ungodliness, ungodly

Definition:

The term "godly" is used to describe a person who acts in a way that honors God and shows what God is like. "Godliness" is the character quality of honoring God by doing his will.

A person who has godly character will show the fruits of the Holy Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self control.
The quality of godliness shows that a person has the Holy Spirit and is obeying him.

The terms "ungodly" and "godless" describe people who are in rebellion against God. Living in an evil way, without thought of God, is called "ungodliness" or "godlessness."

The meanings of these words are very similar. However, "godless" and "godlessness" may describe a more extreme condition in which people or nations do not even acknowledge God or his right to rule them.
God pronounces judgment and wrath on ungodly people, on everyone who rejects him and his ways.

Translation Suggestions:

The phrase "the godly" could be translated as "godly people" or "people who obey God."
The adjective "godly" could be translated as "obedient to God" or "righteous" or "pleasing to God."
The phrase "in a godly manner" could be translated as "in a way that obeys God" or "with actions and words that please God."
Ways to translate "godliness" could include "acting in a way that pleases God" or "obeying God" or "living in a righteous manner."
Depending on the context, the term "ungodly" could be translated as "displeasing to God" or "immoral" or "disobeying God."
The terms "godless" and "godlessness" literally mean that the people are "without God" or "having no thought of God" or "acting in a way that does not acknowledge God."
Other ways to translate "ungodliness" or "godlessness" could be "wickedness" or "evil" or "rebellion against God".

(See also evil, honor, obey, righteous, righteous)

Bible References:

Job 27:10
Proverbs 11:09
Acts 03:12
1 Timothy 01:9-11
1 Timothy 04:07
2 Timothy 03:12
Hebrews 12:14-17
Hebrews 11:7
1 Peter 04:18
Jude 01:16

Word Data:

Strong's: H120, H2611, H2612, H5760, H7563, G763, G764, G765, G2124, G2150, G2152, G2153, G2317

Forms Found in the English ULB:

godless, godless actions, godlessness, godliness, godly, godly life, ungodliness, ungodly

good

Related Ideas:

best, better, fair, good things, goodness, improved, prefer, proper, well

Definition:

The word "good" has different meanings depending on the context. Many languages will use different words to translate these different meanings.

In general, something is good if it fits with God's character, purposes, and will.
Something that is "good" could be pleasing, excellent, helpful, suitable, profitable, or morally right.
Land that is "good" could be called "fertile" or "productive."
A "good" crop could be a "plentiful" crop.
A person can be "good" at what they do if they are skillful at their task or profession, as in, the expression, "a good farmer."
In the Bible, the general meaning of "good" is often contrasted with "evil."
The term "goodness" usually refers to being morally good or righteous in thoughts and actions.
The goodness of God refers to how he blesses people by giving them good and beneficial things. It also can refer to his moral perfection.
Actions that are "proper" are those that are good and right for the situation in which they are done.
"Goods" are good things, valuable possessions.
To "prefer" something is to think it is better than other things.

Translation Suggestions:

The general term for "good" in the target language should be used wherever this general meaning is accurate and natural, especially in contexts where it is contrasted to evil.
Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "kind" or "excellent" or "pleasing to God" or "righteous" or "morally upright" or "profitable."
"Good land" could be translated as "fertile land" or "productive land"; a "good crop" could be translated as a "plentiful harvest" or "large amount of crops."
The phrase "do good to" means to do something that benefits others and could be translated as "be kind to" or "help" or "benefit" someone.
To "do good on the Sabbath" means to "do things that help others on the Sabbath."
Depending on the context, ways to translate the term "goodness" could include "blessing" or "kindness" or "moral perfection" or "righteousness" or "purity."

(See also: evil, holy, profit, righteous)

Bible References:

Galatians 05:22-24
Genesis 01:12
Genesis 02:09
Genesis 02:17
James 03:13
Romans 02:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H155, H410, H1580, H1926, H2532, H2617, H2623, H2895, H2896, H2898, H3190, H3191, H3276, H3787, H3966, H4399, H5232, H6743, H7225, H7368, H7399, H7999, H8231, H8232, G14, G15, G18, G19, G515, G744, G865, G979, G1342, G1380, G1832, G2095, G2097, G2106, G2107, G2108, G2109, G2140, G2163, G2293, G2565, G2567, G2570, G2573, G2986, G3140, G4147, G4632, G4851, G5224, G5358, G5543, G5544, G5623

Forms Found in the English ULB:

best, better, do ... good, fair, good, good things, goodness, goods, improved, made ... better, prefer, proper, seemed good, well

good

Related Ideas:

best, better, fair, good things, goodness, improved, prefer, proper, well

Definition:

The word "good" has different meanings depending on the context. Many languages will use different words to translate these different meanings.

In general, something is good if it fits with God's character, purposes, and will.
Something that is "good" could be pleasing, excellent, helpful, suitable, profitable, or morally right.
Land that is "good" could be called "fertile" or "productive."
A "good" crop could be a "plentiful" crop.
A person can be "good" at what they do if they are skillful at their task or profession, as in, the expression, "a good farmer."
In the Bible, the general meaning of "good" is often contrasted with "evil."
The term "goodness" usually refers to being morally good or righteous in thoughts and actions.
The goodness of God refers to how he blesses people by giving them good and beneficial things. It also can refer to his moral perfection.
Actions that are "proper" are those that are good and right for the situation in which they are done.
"Goods" are good things, valuable possessions.
To "prefer" something is to think it is better than other things.

Translation Suggestions:

The general term for "good" in the target language should be used wherever this general meaning is accurate and natural, especially in contexts where it is contrasted to evil.
Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "kind" or "excellent" or "pleasing to God" or "righteous" or "morally upright" or "profitable."
"Good land" could be translated as "fertile land" or "productive land"; a "good crop" could be translated as a "plentiful harvest" or "large amount of crops."
The phrase "do good to" means to do something that benefits others and could be translated as "be kind to" or "help" or "benefit" someone.
To "do good on the Sabbath" means to "do things that help others on the Sabbath."
Depending on the context, ways to translate the term "goodness" could include "blessing" or "kindness" or "moral perfection" or "righteousness" or "purity."

(See also: evil, holy, profit, righteous)

Bible References:

Galatians 05:22-24
Genesis 01:12
Genesis 02:09
Genesis 02:17
James 03:13
Romans 02:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H155, H410, H1580, H1926, H2532, H2617, H2623, H2895, H2896, H2898, H3190, H3191, H3276, H3787, H3966, H4399, H5232, H6743, H7225, H7368, H7399, H7999, H8231, H8232, G14, G15, G18, G19, G515, G744, G865, G979, G1342, G1380, G1832, G2095, G2097, G2106, G2107, G2108, G2109, G2140, G2163, G2293, G2565, G2567, G2570, G2573, G2986, G3140, G4147, G4632, G4851, G5224, G5358, G5543, G5544, G5623

Forms Found in the English ULB:

best, better, do ... good, fair, good, good things, goodness, goods, improved, made ... better, prefer, proper, seemed good, well

grace

Related Ideas:

generous, gracious, graciously

Definition:

The word "grace" refers to help or blessing that is given to someone who has not earned it. The term "gracious" describes someone who shows grace to others.

God's grace toward sinful human beings is a gift that is freely given.
The concept of grace also refers to being kind and forgiving to someone who has done wrong or hurtful things.
The expression to "find grace" is an expression that means to receive help and mercy from God. Often it includes the meaning that God is pleased with someone and helps him.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways that "grace" could be translated include "divine kindness" or "God's favor" or "God's kindness and forgiveness for sinners" or "merciful kindness."
The term "gracious" could be translated as "full of grace" or "kind" or "merciful" or "mercifully kind."
The expression "he found grace in the eyes of God" could be translated as "he received mercy from God" or "God mercifully helped him" or "God showed his favor to him" or "God was pleased with him and helped him."

Bible References:

Acts 04:33
Acts 06:08
Acts 14:04
Colossians 04:06
Colossians 04:18
Genesis 43:28-29
James 04:07
John 01:16
Philippians 04:21-23
Revelation 22:20-21

Word Data:

Strong's: H2580, H2587, H2589, H2603, G5485, G5543

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act of grace, generous, grace, gracious, graciously, graciously given

hand

Related Ideas:

handbreadth, handful, lay a hand on

Definition:

There are several figurative ways that "hand" is used in the Bible:

To "hand" something to someone means to put something into that person's hands.
The term "hand" is often used in reference to God's power and action, such as when God says "Has not my hand made all these things?"
Expressions such as "hand over to" or "deliver into the hands of" refer to causing someone to be under the control or power of someone else.
Some other figurative uses of "hand" include:
To "lay a hand on" means to "harm."
To "save from the hand of" means to stop someone from harming someone else.
The position of being "on the right hand" means "on the right side" or "to the right."
The expression "by the hand of" someone means "by" or "through" the action of that person. For example, "by the hand of the Lord" means that the Lord is the one who caused something to happen.
Placing hands on someone is often done while speaking a blessing over that person.
The term "laying on of hands" refers to placing a hand on a person in order to dedicate that person to God's service or to pray for healing.
When Paul says "written by my hand," it means that this part of the letter was physically written down by him, rather than spoken to someone else to write down.

Translation Suggestions

These expressions and other figures of speech could be translated using other figurative expressions that have the same meaning. Or the meaning could be translated using direct, literal language (see examples above).
The expression "handed him the scroll" could also be translated as "gave him the scroll" or "put the scroll in his hand." It was not given to him permanently, but just for the purpose of using it at that time.
When "hand" refers to the person, such as in "the hand of God did this," it could be translated as "God did this."
An expression such as "delivered them into the hands of their enemies" or "handed them over to their enemies," could be translated as, "allowed their enemies to conquer them" or "caused them to be captured by their enemies" or "empowered their enemies to gain control over them."
To "die by the hand of" could be translated as "be killed by."
The expression "on the right hand of" could be translated as "on the right side of."
In regard to Jesus being "seated at the right hand of God," if this does not communicate in the language that it refers to a position of high honor and equal authority, a different expression with that meaning could be used. Or a short explanation could be added: "on the right side of God, in the position of highest authority."

(See also: adversary, bless, captive, honor, power)

Bible References:

Acts 07:25
Acts 08:17
Acts 11:21
Genesis 09:05
Genesis 14:20
John 03:35
Mark 07:32
Matthew 06:03

Word Data:

Strong's: G710, G1188, G2176, G2902, G4084, G5495, G5496, G5497, H2026, H2651, H2947, H2948, H3027, H3028, H3231, H3233, H3709, H7126, H7138, H8042, H8168

Forms Found in the English ULB:

by the hand of, fist, from the hand of, hand, handbreadth, handed, handful, handfuls, handing, hands, lay a hand on, lays his hand on

hang

Definition:

The term "hang" means to suspend something or someone above the ground.

Death by hanging typically is done by tying a rope that is tied around a person's neck and sustending him from an elevated object, like a tree limb. Judas killed himself by hanging.
Although Jesus died while hanging on a wooden cross, there was nothing around his neck: the soldiers suspended him by nailing his hands (or wrists) and his feet to the cross.
To hang someone always refers to the way of killing someone by hanging them with a rope around their neck.

Bible References:

2 Samuel 17:23
Acts 10:39
Galatians 03:13
Genesis 40:22
Matthew 27:3-5

Word Data:

Strong's: H2614, H3363, H8518, G519

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hang, hanged, hanging, hangings, hangs, hung

head

Definition:

In the Bible, the word "head" is used with several figurative meanings.

Often this term is used to refer to a ruler or to someone who has authority over people, as in "you have made me the head over nations."
Jesus is called the "head of the church." Just as a person's head guides and directs the members of its body, so Jesus guides and directs the members of his "body," the Church.
The New Testament teaches that a husband is the "head" or authority of his wife. He is given the responsibility of leading and guiding his wife and family.
The term "head" can also represent the whole person, as in "this gray head," referring to an elderly person, or as in "the head of Joseph," which refers to Joseph.
The expression "no razor will ever touch his head" means" he will never cut or shave his hair."
The expression "let their blood be on his own head" means that the man is responsible for their deaths and will receive the punishment for that.
The expression "heads of grain" refers to the top parts of a wheat or barley plant that contains the seeds.
The term "head" can also refer to the beginning or source of something, as in the "head of the street."

Translation Suggestions

Depending on the context, the term "head" could be translated as "ruler" or "the one who leads and directs" or "the one who is responsible for."
The expression "head of" can refer to the whole person and so this expression could be translated using just the person's name. For example, "the head of Joseph" could simply be translated as "Joseph."
The expression "will be on his own head" could be translated as "will be on him" or "he will be punished for" or "he will be held responsible for" or "he will be considered guilty for."
Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "beginning" or "source" or "ruler" or "leader" or "top."

(See also: grain)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 01:51-54
1 Kings 08:1-2
1 Samuel 09:22
Colossians 02:10
Colossians 02:19
Numbers 01:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H441, H1538, H4425, H4761, H4763, H5110, H5324, H6285, H6915, H6936, H7139, H7144, H7146, H7217, H7226, H7218, H7541, H7636, H7641, H7872, G346, G755, G2775, G2776, G4719

Forms Found in the English ULB:

head, heads

heal

Related Ideas:

cure, healer, health, healthy, make fresh, make well, recover, unhealthy

Definition:

The terms "heal" and "cure" both mean to cause a sick, wounded, or disabled person to be healthy again.

A person who is "healed" or "cured" has been "made well" or "made healthy."
Healing can happen naturally since God gave our bodies the ability to recover from many kinds of wounds and diseases. This kind of healing usually happens slowly.
However, certain conditions, such as being blind or paralyzed, and certain serious diseases, such as leprosy, however do not heal on their own. When people are healed of these things, it is a miracle that usually happens suddenly.
For example, Jesus healed many people who were blind or lame or diseased, and they became well right away.
The apostles also healed people miraculously, such as when Peter caused a crippled man to immediately be able to walk.
A person who is "healthy" has no disease. It may be that he has been healed or that he has simply not been ill for a long time.
Health can be a metaphor for anything that is good or trustworthy. "Healthy teaching" is teaching that people can depend on to be true and helpful and morally good.

(See also: miracle)

Bible References:

Acts 05:16
Acts 08:06
Luke 05:13
Luke 06:19
Luke 08:43
Matthew 04:23-25
Matthew 09:35
Matthew 13:15

Word Data:

Strong's: H724, H1369, H1455, H2280, H2421, H2492, H2896, H3545, H4832, H4974, H7495, H7499, H7500, H7725, H7965, H8549, H8585, H8644, H622, G1295, G1743, G2322, G2323, G2386, G2390, G2392, G3647, G4982, G5198, G5199

Forms Found in the English ULB:

cure, cured, heal, healed, healer, healers, healing, healings, heals, health, healthy, made ... fresh, made ... well, make ... fresh, recovered, unhealthy

heart

Related Ideas:

kidneys

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "heart" is often used figuratively to refer to a person's thoughts, emotions, desires, or will.

To have a "hard heart" is a common expression that means a person stubbornly refuses to obey God.
The expressions "with all my heart" or "with my whole heart" mean to do something with no holding back, with complete commitment and willingness.
The expression "take it to heart" means to treat something seriously and apply it to one's life.
The term "brokenhearted" describes a person who is very sad. That person has been deeply hurt emotionally.
The kidneys are also used as a synecdoche for the physical inner organs and as a metonym for a person's innermost thoughts and emotions.

Translation Suggestions

Some languages use a different body part such as "stomach" or "liver" to refer to these ideas.
Other languages may use one word to express some of these concepts and another word to express others.
If "heart" or other body part does not have this meaning, some languages may need to express this literally with terms such as "thoughts" or "emotions" or "desires" or "inner self".
Depending on the context, "with all my heart" or "with my whole heart" could be translated as "with all my energy" or "with complete dedication" or "completely" or "with total commitment."
The expression "take it to heart" could be translated as "treat it seriously" or "carefully think about it."
The expression "hard-hearted" could also be translated as "stubbornly rebellious" or "refusing to obey" or "continually disobeying God."
Ways to translate "brokenhearted" could include "very sad" or "feeling deeply hurt."

(See also: hard)

Bible References:

1 John 03:17
1 Thessalonians 02:04
2 Thessalonians 03:13-15
Acts 08:22
Acts 15:09
Luke 08:15
Mark 02:06
Matthew 05:08
Matthew 22:37

Word Data:

Strong's: H2436, H2504, H2910, H3519, H3629, H3820, H3821, H3823, H3824, H3825, H3826, H4578, H5315, H7307, H7356, G1282, G1271, G2133, G2588, G2589, G4641, G4698, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heart, hearts, kidneys

heir

Definition:

An "heir" is a person who legally receives property or money that belonged to a person who has died.

In Bible times, the main heir was the firstborn son, who received most of the property and money of his father.
The Bible also uses "heir" in a figurative sense to refer to person who as a Christian receives spiritual benefits from God, his spiritual father.
As God's children, Christians are said to be "joint heirs" with Jesus Christ. This could also be translated as "co-heirs" or "fellow heirs" or "heirs together with."
The term "heir" could be translated as "person receiving benefits" or whatever expression is used in the language to communicate the meaning of someone who receives property and other things when a parent or other relative dies.

(See also: firstborn, inherit)

Bible References:

Galatians 04:1-2
Galatians 04:07
Genesis 15:01
Genesis 21:10-11
Luke 20:14
Mark 12:07
Matthew 21:38-39

Word Data:

Strong's: H1121, H3423, G2816, G2818, G2820, G4789

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heir, heirs

heir

Definition:

An "heir" is a person who legally receives property or money that belonged to a person who has died.

In Bible times, the main heir was the firstborn son, who received most of the property and money of his father.
The Bible also uses "heir" in a figurative sense to refer to person who as a Christian receives spiritual benefits from God, his spiritual father.
As God's children, Christians are said to be "joint heirs" with Jesus Christ. This could also be translated as "co-heirs" or "fellow heirs" or "heirs together with."
The term "heir" could be translated as "person receiving benefits" or whatever expression is used in the language to communicate the meaning of someone who receives property and other things when a parent or other relative dies.

(See also: firstborn, inherit)

Bible References:

Galatians 04:1-2
Galatians 04:07
Genesis 15:01
Genesis 21:10-11
Luke 20:14
Mark 12:07
Matthew 21:38-39

Word Data:

Strong's: H1121, H3423, G2816, G2818, G2820, G4789

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heir, heirs

holy

Related Ideas:

holiness, sacred, unholy

Definition:

The terms "holy" and "holiness" refer to the character of God that is totally set apart and separated from everything that is sinful and imperfect.

Only God is absolutely holy. He makes people and things holy.
A person who is holy belongs to God and has been set apart for the purpose of serving God and bringing him glory.
An object that God has declared to be holy is one that he has set apart for his glory and use, such as an altar that is for the purpose of offering sacrifices to him.
People cannot approach him unless he allows them to, because he is holy and they are merely human beings, sinful and imperfect.
In the Old Testament, God set apart the priests as holy for special service to him. They had to be ceremonially cleansed from sin in order to approach God.
God also set apart as holy certain places and things that belonged to him or in which he revealed himself, such as his temple.
Believers in Jesus are holy people, not because of what they have done, but rather because of their faith in the saving work of Jesus Christ. He is the one who makes them holy.
When people of any religion, true or false, consider something "sacred," they consider it holy according to their religion.

Literally, the term "unholy" means "not holy." It describes someone or something that does not honor God.

This word is used to describe someone who dishonors God by rebelling against him.
A thing that is called "unholy" could be described as being common, profane or unclean. It does not belong to God.

The term "sacred" describes something that relates to worshiping God or to the pagan worship of false gods.

In the Old Testament, the term "sacred" was often used to describe the stone pillars and other objects used in the worship of false gods. This could also be translated as "religious."
"Sacred songs" and "sacred music" refer to music that was sung or played for God's glory. This could be translated as "music for worshiping Yahweh" or "songs that praise God."
The phrase "sacred duties" referred to the "religious duties" or "rituals" that a priest performed to lead people in worshiping God. It could also refer to the rituals performed by a pagan priest to worship a false god.
The phrase "sacred gifts" refers to things that someone has set apart for God and then given to God at the temple.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "holy" might include "set apart for God" or "belonging to God" or "completely pure" or "perfectly sinless" or "separated from sin."
To "make holy" is often translated as "sanctify" in English. It could also be translated as "set apart (someone) for God's glory."
Ways to translate "unholy" could include "not holy" or "not belonging to God" or "not honoring to God" or "not godly."
In some contexts, "unholy" could be translated as "unclean."

(See also: Holy Spirit, consecrate, sanctify, set apart)

Bible References:

Genesis 28:22
2 Kings 03:02
Lamentations 04:01
Ezekiel 20:18-20
Matthew 07:6
Mark 08:38
Acts 07:33
Acts 11:08
Romans 01:02
2 Corinthians 12:3-5
Colossians 01:22
1 Thessalonians 03:13
1 Thessalonians 04:07
2 Timothy 03:15
1 Timothy 05:10
2 Corinthians 09:12-15
Revelation 16:06
Revelation 20:9-10

Word Data:

Strong's: H2455, H2623, H4676, H4720, H6918, H6922, H6942, H6944, H6948, G37, G38, G39, G40, G41, G42, G462, G2150, G2413, G2839, G3741, G3742

Forms Found in the English ULB:

holier, holiest, holiness, holy, holy duties, honored as holy, makes ... holy, sacred, sacred gifts, sacred places, unholy

hope

Definition:

Hope is strongly desiring something to happen. Hope can imply either certainty or uncertainty regarding a future event.

In the Bible, the term "hope" also has the meaning of "trust," as in "my hope is in the Lord." It refers to a sure expectation of receiving what God has promised his people.
To have "no hope" means to have no expectation of something good happening. It means that it is actually very certain that it will not happen.

Translation Suggestions:

In some contexts, the term to "hope" could also be translated as to "wish" or to "desire" or to "expect."
The expression "nothing to hope for" could be translated as "nothing to trust in" or "no expectation of anything good"
To "have no hope" could be translated as "have no expectation of anything good" or "have no security" or "be sure that nothing good will happen."
The expression "have set your hopes on" could also be translated as "have put your confidence in" or "have been trusting in."
The phrase "I find hope in your Word" could also be translated as "I am confident that your Word is true" or "Your Word helps me trust in you" or "When I obey your Word, I am certain to be blessed."
Phrases such as "hope in" God could also be translated a, "trust in God" or "know for sure that God will do what he has promised" or "be certain that God is faithful."

(See also: bless, confidence, good, obey, trust, word of God)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 29:14-15
1 Thessalonians 02:19
Acts 24:14-16
Acts 26:06
Acts 27:20
Colossians 01:05
Job 11:20

Word Data:

Strong's: H982, H983, H986, H1891, H2976, H3176, H3689, H4009, H4723, H7663, H7664, H8431, H8615, G1679, G1680, G2070, G4276

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hope, hoped, hopes, look to ... in hope, uselessly hope

hope

Definition:

Hope is strongly desiring something to happen. Hope can imply either certainty or uncertainty regarding a future event.

In the Bible, the term "hope" also has the meaning of "trust," as in "my hope is in the Lord." It refers to a sure expectation of receiving what God has promised his people.
To have "no hope" means to have no expectation of something good happening. It means that it is actually very certain that it will not happen.

Translation Suggestions:

In some contexts, the term to "hope" could also be translated as to "wish" or to "desire" or to "expect."
The expression "nothing to hope for" could be translated as "nothing to trust in" or "no expectation of anything good"
To "have no hope" could be translated as "have no expectation of anything good" or "have no security" or "be sure that nothing good will happen."
The expression "have set your hopes on" could also be translated as "have put your confidence in" or "have been trusting in."
The phrase "I find hope in your Word" could also be translated as "I am confident that your Word is true" or "Your Word helps me trust in you" or "When I obey your Word, I am certain to be blessed."
Phrases such as "hope in" God could also be translated a, "trust in God" or "know for sure that God will do what he has promised" or "be certain that God is faithful."

(See also: bless, confidence, good, obey, trust, word of God)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 29:14-15
1 Thessalonians 02:19
Acts 24:14-16
Acts 26:06
Acts 27:20
Colossians 01:05
Job 11:20

Word Data:

Strong's: H982, H983, H986, H1891, H2976, H3176, H3689, H4009, H4723, H7663, H7664, H8431, H8615, G1679, G1680, G2070, G4276

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hope, hoped, hopes, look to ... in hope, uselessly hope

hope

Definition:

Hope is strongly desiring something to happen. Hope can imply either certainty or uncertainty regarding a future event.

In the Bible, the term "hope" also has the meaning of "trust," as in "my hope is in the Lord." It refers to a sure expectation of receiving what God has promised his people.
To have "no hope" means to have no expectation of something good happening. It means that it is actually very certain that it will not happen.

Translation Suggestions:

In some contexts, the term to "hope" could also be translated as to "wish" or to "desire" or to "expect."
The expression "nothing to hope for" could be translated as "nothing to trust in" or "no expectation of anything good"
To "have no hope" could be translated as "have no expectation of anything good" or "have no security" or "be sure that nothing good will happen."
The expression "have set your hopes on" could also be translated as "have put your confidence in" or "have been trusting in."
The phrase "I find hope in your Word" could also be translated as "I am confident that your Word is true" or "Your Word helps me trust in you" or "When I obey your Word, I am certain to be blessed."
Phrases such as "hope in" God could also be translated a, "trust in God" or "know for sure that God will do what he has promised" or "be certain that God is faithful."

(See also: bless, confidence, good, obey, trust, word of God)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 29:14-15
1 Thessalonians 02:19
Acts 24:14-16
Acts 26:06
Acts 27:20
Colossians 01:05
Job 11:20

Word Data:

Strong's: H982, H983, H986, H1891, H2976, H3176, H3689, H4009, H4723, H7663, H7664, H8431, H8615, G1679, G1680, G2070, G4276

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hope, hoped, hopes, look to ... in hope, uselessly hope

hour

Definition:

In addition to being used to refer to when or how long something took place, the term "hour" is also used in several figurative ways:

When the text says that the "hour had come" for Jesus to suffer and be put to death, this means that it was the appointed time for this to happen—the time that God had selected long ago.
The phrase "that hour" is also used to mean "at that moment" or "right then."
When the text talks about the "hour" being late, this means that it was late in the day, when the sun would soon be setting.

Translation Suggestions:

When used figuratively, the term "hour" can be translated as "time" or "moment" or "appointed time."
The phrase "in that very hour" or "the same hour" could be translated as "at that moment" or "at that time" or "immediately" or "right then."
The expression "the hour was late" could be translated as "it was late in the day" or "it would soon be getting dark" or "it was late afternoon."
Referring to Jesus, the expression "his hour had come" could be translated as, "the time had come for him" or "it was the appointed time for him."

(See also: hour (biblical time))

Bible References:

Mark 14:35
1 Corinthians 15:30

Word Data:

Strong's: G5610

Forms Found in the English ULB:

appointed time, hour, hours, moment, time, while

house

Related Ideas:

home, residence

Definition:

The term "house" is often used figuratively in the Bible.

Sometimes it means "household," referring to the people who live together in one house.
Often "house" refers to a person's descendants or other relatives. For example, the phrase "house of David" refers to all the descendants of King David.
The terms "house of God" and "house of Yahweh" refer to the tabernacle or temple. These expressions can also refer generally to where God is or dwells.
In Hebrews 3, "God's house" is used as a metaphor to refer to God's people or, more generally, to everything pertaining to God.
A "residence" is any place in which people live without plans to move to another place.

Translation Suggestions

Depending on the context, "house" could be translated as "household" or "people" or "family" or "descendants" or "temple" or "dwelling place."
The phrase "house of David" could be translated as "clan of David" or "family of David" or "descendants of David." Related expressions could be translated in a similar way.
Different ways to translate "house of Israel" could include "people of Israel" or "Israel's descendants" or "Israelites."
The phrase "house of Yahweh" could be translated as "Yahweh's temple" or "place where Yahweh is worshiped" or "place where Yahweh meets with his people" or "where Yahweh dwells."
"House of God" could be translated in a similar way.

Bible References:

Acts 07:42
Acts 07:49
Genesis 39:04
Genesis 41:40
Luke 08:39
Matthew 10:06
Matthew 15:24

Word Data:

Strong's: H1004, H1005, H4585, H5116, G3609, G3613, G3614, G3624

Forms Found in the English ULB:

home, homes, house, house's, houses, residence

imitate

Related Ideas:

imitator

Definition:

The terms "imitate" and "imitator" refers to copying someone else by acting exactly like that person does.

Christians are taught to imitate Jesus Christ by obeying God and loving others, just as Jesus did.
The apostle Paul told the early church to imitate him, just as he imitated Christ.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "imitate" could be translated as "do the same things as" or "follow his example."
The expression "be imitators of God" could be translated as "be people who act like God does" or "be people who do the kinds of things God does."
"You became imitators of us" could be translated as "You followed our example" or "You are doing the same kinds of godly things that you saw us do."

Bible References:

3 John 01:11
Matthew 23:1-3

Word Data:

Strong's: H6213, G3401, G3402

Forms Found in the English ULB:

imitate, imitator, imitators

in Christ

Related Ideas:

in Christ Jesus, in Jesus, in the Lord, in the Lord Jesus, into Christ

Definition:

The phrase "in Christ" and related terms refer to the state or condition of being in relationship with Jesus Christ through faith in him.

Other related terms include "in Christ Jesus, in Jesus Christ, in the Lord Jesus, in the Lord Jesus Christ."
Possible meanings for the term "in Christ" could include "because you belong to Christ" or "through the relationship you have with Christ" or "based on your faith in Christ."
These related terms all have the same meaning of being in a state of believing in Jesus and being his disciple.
Note: Sometimes the word "in" belongs with the verb. For example, "share in Christ" means to "share in" the benefits that come from knowing Christ. To "glory in" Christ means to be glad and give praise to God for who Jesus is and what he has done. To "believe in" Christ means to trust him as Savior and know him.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, different ways to translate "in Christ" and "in the Lord" (and related phrases) could include:
"who belong to Christ"
"because you believe in Christ"
"because Christ has saved us"
"in service to the Lord"
"relying on the Lord"
"because of what the Lord has done."
People who "believe in" Christ or who "have faith in" Christ believe what Jesus taught and are trusting him to save them because of his sacrifice on the cross that paid the penalty for their sins. Some languages may have one word that translates verbs like "believe in" or "share in" or "trust in."

(See also: Christ, lord, Jesus, believe, faith)

Bible References:

1 John 02:05
2 Corinthians 02:17
2 Timothy 01:01
Galatians 01:22
Galatians 02:17
Philemon 01:06
Revelation 01:10
Romans 09:01

Word Data:

Strong's: G2962, G5547

Forms Found in the English ULB:

in Christ, in Christ Jesus, in Jesus, in him, in the Lord, in the Lord Jesus, into Christ

joy

Related Ideas:

enjoy, enjoyment, glad, gladness, greet, joyful, joyfulness, jubilant, merry-hearted, rejoice, source of gladness

Definition:

Joy is a feeling of delight or deep satisfaction that comes from God. The related term "joyful" describes a person who feels very glad and is full of deep happiness.

A person feels joy when he has a deep sense that what he is experiencing is very good.
God is the one who gives true joy to people.
Having joy does not depend on pleasant circumstances. God can give people joy even when very difficult things are happening in their lives.
Sometimes places are described as joyful, such as houses or cities. This means that the people who live there are joyful.
To "salute" is to greet a high-ranking government or military official.
"Jubilant" is another word for "joyful."

The term "rejoice" means to be full of joy and gladness.

This term often refers to being very happy about the good things that God has done.
It could be translated as "be very happy" or "be very glad" or "be full of joy."
When Mary said "my soul rejoices in God my Savior," she meant "God my Savior has made me very happy" or "I feel so joyful because of what God my Savior has done for me."

Translation Suggestions:

The term "joy" could also be translated as "gladness" or "delight" or "great happiness."
The phrase, "be joyful" could be translated as "rejoice" or "be very glad" or it could be translated "be very happy in God's goodness."
A person who is joyful could be described as "very happy" or "delighted" or "deeply glad."
A phrase such as "make a joyful shout" could be translated as "shout in a way that shows you are very happy."
A "joyful city" or "joyful house" could be translated as "city where joyful people live" or "house full of joyful people" or "city whose people are very happy."

Bible References:

Nehemiah 08:10
Psalm 048:02
Isaiah 56:6-7
Jeremiah 15:15-16
Matthew 02:9-10
Luke 15:07
Luke 19:37-38
John 03:29
Acts 16:32-34
Romans 05:1-2
Romans 15:30-32
Galatians 05:23
Philippians 04:10-13
1 Thessalonians 01:6-7
1 Thessalonians 05:16
Philemon 01:4-7
James 01:02
3 John 01:1-4

Word Data:

Strong's: H1288, H1523, H1524, H1525, H2287, H2302, H2304, H2305, H2654, H2896, H2898, H3190, H4885, H5727, H5937, H5947, H5965, H5970, H6342, H6670, H7440, H7442, H7444, H7445, H7797, H7832, H7965, H8055, H8056, H8057, H8342, H8643, G20, G21, G782, G2165, G2167, G2744, G4640, G4796, G4913, G5463, G5479

Forms Found in the English ULB:

be glad, be merry, enjoy, enjoyed, enjoying, enjoyment, enjoys, glad, gladness, greet, greeted, greeting, greetings, greets, joy, joyful, joyful shouting, joyfully, joyfulness, jubilant, make ... glad, makes ... glad, merry-hearted, rejoice, rejoiced, rejoiced greatly, rejoices, rejoices greatly, rejoicing, shout for joy, shout joyfully, shout of joy, shouts of joy, source of gladness, was merry

joy

Related Ideas:

enjoy, enjoyment, glad, gladness, greet, joyful, joyfulness, jubilant, merry-hearted, rejoice, source of gladness

Definition:

Joy is a feeling of delight or deep satisfaction that comes from God. The related term "joyful" describes a person who feels very glad and is full of deep happiness.

A person feels joy when he has a deep sense that what he is experiencing is very good.
God is the one who gives true joy to people.
Having joy does not depend on pleasant circumstances. God can give people joy even when very difficult things are happening in their lives.
Sometimes places are described as joyful, such as houses or cities. This means that the people who live there are joyful.
To "salute" is to greet a high-ranking government or military official.
"Jubilant" is another word for "joyful."

The term "rejoice" means to be full of joy and gladness.

This term often refers to being very happy about the good things that God has done.
It could be translated as "be very happy" or "be very glad" or "be full of joy."
When Mary said "my soul rejoices in God my Savior," she meant "God my Savior has made me very happy" or "I feel so joyful because of what God my Savior has done for me."

Translation Suggestions:

The term "joy" could also be translated as "gladness" or "delight" or "great happiness."
The phrase, "be joyful" could be translated as "rejoice" or "be very glad" or it could be translated "be very happy in God's goodness."
A person who is joyful could be described as "very happy" or "delighted" or "deeply glad."
A phrase such as "make a joyful shout" could be translated as "shout in a way that shows you are very happy."
A "joyful city" or "joyful house" could be translated as "city where joyful people live" or "house full of joyful people" or "city whose people are very happy."

Bible References:

Nehemiah 08:10
Psalm 048:02
Isaiah 56:6-7
Jeremiah 15:15-16
Matthew 02:9-10
Luke 15:07
Luke 19:37-38
John 03:29
Acts 16:32-34
Romans 05:1-2
Romans 15:30-32
Galatians 05:23
Philippians 04:10-13
1 Thessalonians 01:6-7
1 Thessalonians 05:16
Philemon 01:4-7
James 01:02
3 John 01:1-4

Word Data:

Strong's: H1288, H1523, H1524, H1525, H2287, H2302, H2304, H2305, H2654, H2896, H2898, H3190, H4885, H5727, H5937, H5947, H5965, H5970, H6342, H6670, H7440, H7442, H7444, H7445, H7797, H7832, H7965, H8055, H8056, H8057, H8342, H8643, G20, G21, G782, G2165, G2167, G2744, G4640, G4796, G4913, G5463, G5479

Forms Found in the English ULB:

joy

Related Ideas:

enjoy, enjoyment, glad, gladness, greet, joyful, joyfulness, jubilant, merry-hearted, rejoice, source of gladness

Definition:

Joy is a feeling of delight or deep satisfaction that comes from God. The related term "joyful" describes a person who feels very glad and is full of deep happiness.

A person feels joy when he has a deep sense that what he is experiencing is very good.
God is the one who gives true joy to people.
Having joy does not depend on pleasant circumstances. God can give people joy even when very difficult things are happening in their lives.
Sometimes places are described as joyful, such as houses or cities. This means that the people who live there are joyful.
To "salute" is to greet a high-ranking government or military official.
"Jubilant" is another word for "joyful."

The term "rejoice" means to be full of joy and gladness.

This term often refers to being very happy about the good things that God has done.
It could be translated as "be very happy" or "be very glad" or "be full of joy."
When Mary said "my soul rejoices in God my Savior," she meant "God my Savior has made me very happy" or "I feel so joyful because of what God my Savior has done for me."

Translation Suggestions:

The term "joy" could also be translated as "gladness" or "delight" or "great happiness."
The phrase, "be joyful" could be translated as "rejoice" or "be very glad" or it could be translated "be very happy in God's goodness."
A person who is joyful could be described as "very happy" or "delighted" or "deeply glad."
A phrase such as "make a joyful shout" could be translated as "shout in a way that shows you are very happy."
A "joyful city" or "joyful house" could be translated as "city where joyful people live" or "house full of joyful people" or "city whose people are very happy."

Bible References:

Nehemiah 08:10
Psalm 048:02
Isaiah 56:6-7
Jeremiah 15:15-16
Matthew 02:9-10
Luke 15:07
Luke 19:37-38
John 03:29
Acts 16:32-34
Romans 05:1-2
Romans 15:30-32
Galatians 05:23
Philippians 04:10-13
1 Thessalonians 01:6-7
1 Thessalonians 05:16
Philemon 01:4-7
James 01:02
3 John 01:1-4

Word Data:

Strong's: H1288, H1523, H1524, H1525, H2287, H2302, H2304, H2305, H2654, H2896, H2898, H3190, H4885, H5727, H5937, H5947, H5965, H5970, H6342, H6670, H7440, H7442, H7444, H7445, H7797, H7832, H7965, H8055, H8056, H8057, H8342, H8643, G20, G21, G782, G2165, G2167, G2744, G4640, G4796, G4913, G5463, G5479

Forms Found in the English ULB:

joy

Related Ideas:

enjoy, enjoyment, glad, gladness, greet, joyful, joyfulness, jubilant, merry-hearted, rejoice, source of gladness

Definition:

Joy is a feeling of delight or deep satisfaction that comes from God. The related term "joyful" describes a person who feels very glad and is full of deep happiness.

A person feels joy when he has a deep sense that what he is experiencing is very good.
God is the one who gives true joy to people.
Having joy does not depend on pleasant circumstances. God can give people joy even when very difficult things are happening in their lives.
Sometimes places are described as joyful, such as houses or cities. This means that the people who live there are joyful.
To "salute" is to greet a high-ranking government or military official.
"Jubilant" is another word for "joyful."

The term "rejoice" means to be full of joy and gladness.

This term often refers to being very happy about the good things that God has done.
It could be translated as "be very happy" or "be very glad" or "be full of joy."
When Mary said "my soul rejoices in God my Savior," she meant "God my Savior has made me very happy" or "I feel so joyful because of what God my Savior has done for me."

Translation Suggestions:

The term "joy" could also be translated as "gladness" or "delight" or "great happiness."
The phrase, "be joyful" could be translated as "rejoice" or "be very glad" or it could be translated "be very happy in God's goodness."
A person who is joyful could be described as "very happy" or "delighted" or "deeply glad."
A phrase such as "make a joyful shout" could be translated as "shout in a way that shows you are very happy."
A "joyful city" or "joyful house" could be translated as "city where joyful people live" or "house full of joyful people" or "city whose people are very happy."

Bible References:

Nehemiah 08:10
Psalm 048:02
Isaiah 56:6-7
Jeremiah 15:15-16
Matthew 02:9-10
Luke 15:07
Luke 19:37-38
John 03:29
Acts 16:32-34
Romans 05:1-2
Romans 15:30-32
Galatians 05:23
Philippians 04:10-13
1 Thessalonians 01:6-7
1 Thessalonians 05:16
Philemon 01:4-7
James 01:02
3 John 01:1-4

Word Data:

Strong's: H1288, H1523, H1524, H1525, H2287, H2302, H2304, H2305, H2654, H2896, H2898, H3190, H4885, H5727, H5937, H5947, H5965, H5970, H6342, H6670, H7440, H7442, H7444, H7445, H7797, H7832, H7965, H8055, H8056, H8057, H8342, H8643, G20, G21, G782, G2165, G2167, G2744, G4640, G4796, G4913, G5463, G5479

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kin

Related Ideas:

kindred, kinfolk, kinsman, relative

Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

"Kin" can only refer to a person's close relatives, such as parents and siblings, or it can also include more distant relatives, such as an aunts, uncles, or cousins.
In ancient Israel, if a man died, his nearest male relative was expected to marry his widow, manage his property, and help carry on his family name. This relative was called a "kinsman-redeemer."
This term "kin" could also be translated as, "relative" or "family member."

Bible References:

Romans 16:9-11
Ruth 02:20
Ruth 03:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H251, H1350, H1353, H1730, H4129, H4130, H4138, H4940, H7138, H7607, G1085, G4773

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kin, kindred, kinfolk, kinsfolk, kinsman, kinsmen, relative, relatives

kin

Related Ideas:

kindred, kinfolk, kinsman, relative

Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

"Kin" can only refer to a person's close relatives, such as parents and siblings, or it can also include more distant relatives, such as an aunts, uncles, or cousins.
In ancient Israel, if a man died, his nearest male relative was expected to marry his widow, manage his property, and help carry on his family name. This relative was called a "kinsman-redeemer."
This term "kin" could also be translated as, "relative" or "family member."

Bible References:

Romans 16:9-11
Ruth 02:20
Ruth 03:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H251, H1350, H1353, H1730, H4129, H4130, H4138, H4940, H7138, H7607, G1085, G4773

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kin, kindred, kinfolk, kinsfolk, kinsman, kinsmen, relative, relatives

kin

Related Ideas:

kindred, kinfolk, kinsman, relative

Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

"Kin" can only refer to a person's close relatives, such as parents and siblings, or it can also include more distant relatives, such as an aunts, uncles, or cousins.
In ancient Israel, if a man died, his nearest male relative was expected to marry his widow, manage his property, and help carry on his family name. This relative was called a "kinsman-redeemer."
This term "kin" could also be translated as, "relative" or "family member."

Bible References:

Romans 16:9-11
Ruth 02:20
Ruth 03:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H251, H1350, H1353, H1730, H4129, H4130, H4138, H4940, H7138, H7607, G1085, G4773

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kin, kindred, kinfolk, kinsfolk, kinsman, kinsmen, relative, relatives

kin

Related Ideas:

kindred, kinfolk, kinsman, relative

Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

"Kin" can only refer to a person's close relatives, such as parents and siblings, or it can also include more distant relatives, such as an aunts, uncles, or cousins.
In ancient Israel, if a man died, his nearest male relative was expected to marry his widow, manage his property, and help carry on his family name. This relative was called a "kinsman-redeemer."
This term "kin" could also be translated as, "relative" or "family member."

Bible References:

Romans 16:9-11
Ruth 02:20
Ruth 03:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H251, H1350, H1353, H1730, H4129, H4130, H4138, H4940, H7138, H7607, G1085, G4773

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kin, kindred, kinfolk, kinsfolk, kinsman, kinsmen, relative, relatives

kind

Definition:

The terms "kind" and "kinds" refer to groups or classifications of things that are connected by shared characteristics.

In the Bible, this term is specifically used to refer to the distinctive kinds of plants and animals that God made when he created the world.
Often there are many different variations or species within each "kind." For example, horses, zebras, and donkeys are all members of the same "kind," but they are different species.
The main thing that distinguishes each "kind" as a separate group is that members of that group can reproduce more of their same "kind." Members of different kinds cannot do that with each other.

Picture showing Kinds:

Translation Suggestions

Ways to translate this term could include "type" or "class" or "group" or "animal (plant) group" or "category."

Bible References:

Genesis 01:21
Genesis 01:24
Mark 09:29
Matthew 13:47

Word Data:

Strong's: H2178, H4327, G1085

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kind, kinds

king

Related Ideas:

kingly, kingship

Definition:

The term "king" refers to a man who is the supreme ruler of a city, state, or country.

A king was usually chosen to rule because of his family relation to previous kings.
When a king died, it was usually his oldest son who became the next king.
In ancient times, the king had absolute authority over the people in his kingdom.
Rarely the term "king" was used to refer to someone who was not a true king, such as "King Herod" in the New Testament.
In the Bible, God is often referred to as a king who rules over his people.
The "kingdom of God" refers to God's rule over his people.
Jesus was called "king of the Jews," "king of Israel," and "king of kings."
When Jesus comes back, he will rule as king over the world.
This term could also be translated as "supreme chief" or "absolute leader" or "sovereign ruler."
The phrase "king of kings" could be translated as "king who rules over all other kings" or "supreme ruler who has authority over all other rulers."

Bible References:

1 Timothy 06:15-16
2 Kings 05:18
2 Samuel 05:03
Acts 07:9-10
Acts 13:22
John 01:49-51
Luke 01:05
Luke 22:24-25
Matthew 05:35
Matthew 14:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H4427, H4428, H4430, G935, G936, G937

Forms Found in the English ULB:

king, king's, kingly, kings, kingship, made ... king, set up ... king, set up kings

king

Related Ideas:

kingly, kingship

Definition:

The term "king" refers to a man who is the supreme ruler of a city, state, or country.

A king was usually chosen to rule because of his family relation to previous kings.
When a king died, it was usually his oldest son who became the next king.
In ancient times, the king had absolute authority over the people in his kingdom.
Rarely the term "king" was used to refer to someone who was not a true king, such as "King Herod" in the New Testament.
In the Bible, God is often referred to as a king who rules over his people.
The "kingdom of God" refers to God's rule over his people.
Jesus was called "king of the Jews," "king of Israel," and "king of kings."
When Jesus comes back, he will rule as king over the world.
This term could also be translated as "supreme chief" or "absolute leader" or "sovereign ruler."
The phrase "king of kings" could be translated as "king who rules over all other kings" or "supreme ruler who has authority over all other rulers."

Bible References:

1 Timothy 06:15-16
2 Kings 05:18
2 Samuel 05:03
Acts 07:9-10
Acts 13:22
John 01:49-51
Luke 01:05
Luke 22:24-25
Matthew 05:35
Matthew 14:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H4427, H4428, H4430, G935, G936, G937

Forms Found in the English ULB:

king, king's, kingly, kings, kingship, made ... king, set up ... king, set up kings

king

Related Ideas:

kingly, kingship

Definition:

The term "king" refers to a man who is the supreme ruler of a city, state, or country.

A king was usually chosen to rule because of his family relation to previous kings.
When a king died, it was usually his oldest son who became the next king.
In ancient times, the king had absolute authority over the people in his kingdom.
Rarely the term "king" was used to refer to someone who was not a true king, such as "King Herod" in the New Testament.
In the Bible, God is often referred to as a king who rules over his people.
The "kingdom of God" refers to God's rule over his people.
Jesus was called "king of the Jews," "king of Israel," and "king of kings."
When Jesus comes back, he will rule as king over the world.
This term could also be translated as "supreme chief" or "absolute leader" or "sovereign ruler."
The phrase "king of kings" could be translated as "king who rules over all other kings" or "supreme ruler who has authority over all other rulers."

Bible References:

1 Timothy 06:15-16
2 Kings 05:18
2 Samuel 05:03
Acts 07:9-10
Acts 13:22
John 01:49-51
Luke 01:05
Luke 22:24-25
Matthew 05:35
Matthew 14:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H4427, H4428, H4430, G935, G936, G937

Forms Found in the English ULB:

king, king's, kingly, kings, kingship, made ... king, set up ... king, set up kings

know

Related Ideas:

knowledge, make known, unknowingly, unknown

Definition:

To "know" means to understand something or to be aware of a fact. The expression "make known" is an expression that means to tell information.

The term "knowledge" refers to information that people know. It can apply to knowing things in both the physical and spiritual worlds.
To "know about" God means to understand facts about him because of what he has revealed to us.
To "know" God means to have a relationship with him. This also applies to knowing people.
To know God's will means to be aware of what he has commanded, or to understand what he wants a person to do.
To "know the Law" means to be aware of what God has commanded or to understand what God has instructed in the laws he gave to Moses.
Sometimes "knowledge" is used as a synonym for "wisdom," which includes living in a way that is pleasing to God.
The "knowledge of God" is sometimes used as a synonym for the "fear of Yahweh."
If a person does something "unknowingly," he does it without knowing that he is doing it.

Translation Suggestions

Depending on the context, ways to translate "know" could include "understand" or "be familiar with" or "be aware of" or "be acquainted with" or "be in relationship with."
Some languages have two different words for "know," one for knowing facts and one for knowing a person and having a relationship with him.
The term "make known" could be translated as "cause people to know" or "reveal" or "tell about" or "explain."
To "know about" something could be translated as "be aware of" or "be familiar with."
The expression "know how to" means to understand the process or method of getting something done. It could also be translated as "be able to" or "have the skill to."
The term "knowledge" could also be translated as "what is known" or "wisdom" or "understanding," depending on the context.
To "train for" an activity is to learn now to do it well. To train for war is to learn by practice how to be a good fighter.

(See also: law of Moses, reveal, understand, wise)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 02:12-13
1 Samuel 17:46
2 Corinthians 02:15
2 Peter 01:3-4
Deuteronomy 04:39-40
Genesis 19:05
Luke 01:77

Word Data:

Strong's: H502, H1843, H1844, H1847, H1875, H2713, H2372, H3045, H3046, H3925, H4093, H4486, H5046, H5234, H5475, H5869, G50, G56, G1097, G1107, G1108, G1492, G1834, G1921, G1922, G1987, G2467, G5319, G2589, G2657, G4267, G4894, G5318

Forms Found in the English ULB:

knew, know, know ... beforehand, knowing, knowledge, known, knows, made ... known, made known, make ... known, makes known, unknowingly, unknown

know

Related Ideas:

knowledge, make known, unknowingly, unknown

Definition:

To "know" means to understand something or to be aware of a fact. The expression "make known" is an expression that means to tell information.

The term "knowledge" refers to information that people know. It can apply to knowing things in both the physical and spiritual worlds.
To "know about" God means to understand facts about him because of what he has revealed to us.
To "know" God means to have a relationship with him. This also applies to knowing people.
To know God's will means to be aware of what he has commanded, or to understand what he wants a person to do.
To "know the Law" means to be aware of what God has commanded or to understand what God has instructed in the laws he gave to Moses.
Sometimes "knowledge" is used as a synonym for "wisdom," which includes living in a way that is pleasing to God.
The "knowledge of God" is sometimes used as a synonym for the "fear of Yahweh."
If a person does something "unknowingly," he does it without knowing that he is doing it.

Translation Suggestions

Depending on the context, ways to translate "know" could include "understand" or "be familiar with" or "be aware of" or "be acquainted with" or "be in relationship with."
Some languages have two different words for "know," one for knowing facts and one for knowing a person and having a relationship with him.
The term "make known" could be translated as "cause people to know" or "reveal" or "tell about" or "explain."
To "know about" something could be translated as "be aware of" or "be familiar with."
The expression "know how to" means to understand the process or method of getting something done. It could also be translated as "be able to" or "have the skill to."
The term "knowledge" could also be translated as "what is known" or "wisdom" or "understanding," depending on the context.
To "train for" an activity is to learn now to do it well. To train for war is to learn by practice how to be a good fighter.

(See also: law of Moses, reveal, understand, wise)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 02:12-13
1 Samuel 17:46
2 Corinthians 02:15
2 Peter 01:3-4
Deuteronomy 04:39-40
Genesis 19:05
Luke 01:77

Word Data:

Strong's: H502, H1843, H1844, H1847, H1875, H2713, H2372, H3045, H3046, H3925, H4093, H4486, H5046, H5234, H5475, H5869, G50, G56, G1097, G1107, G1108, G1492, G1834, G1921, G1922, G1987, G2467, G5319, G2589, G2657, G4267, G4894, G5318

Forms Found in the English ULB:

knew, know, know ... beforehand, knowing, knowledge, known, knows, made ... known, made known, make ... known, makes known, unknowingly, unknown

know

Related Ideas:

knowledge, make known, unknowingly, unknown

Definition:

To "know" means to understand something or to be aware of a fact. The expression "make known" is an expression that means to tell information.

The term "knowledge" refers to information that people know. It can apply to knowing things in both the physical and spiritual worlds.
To "know about" God means to understand facts about him because of what he has revealed to us.
To "know" God means to have a relationship with him. This also applies to knowing people.
To know God's will means to be aware of what he has commanded, or to understand what he wants a person to do.
To "know the Law" means to be aware of what God has commanded or to understand what God has instructed in the laws he gave to Moses.
Sometimes "knowledge" is used as a synonym for "wisdom," which includes living in a way that is pleasing to God.
The "knowledge of God" is sometimes used as a synonym for the "fear of Yahweh."
If a person does something "unknowingly," he does it without knowing that he is doing it.

Translation Suggestions

Depending on the context, ways to translate "know" could include "understand" or "be familiar with" or "be aware of" or "be acquainted with" or "be in relationship with."
Some languages have two different words for "know," one for knowing facts and one for knowing a person and having a relationship with him.
The term "make known" could be translated as "cause people to know" or "reveal" or "tell about" or "explain."
To "know about" something could be translated as "be aware of" or "be familiar with."
The expression "know how to" means to understand the process or method of getting something done. It could also be translated as "be able to" or "have the skill to."
The term "knowledge" could also be translated as "what is known" or "wisdom" or "understanding," depending on the context.
To "train for" an activity is to learn now to do it well. To train for war is to learn by practice how to be a good fighter.

(See also: law of Moses, reveal, understand, wise)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 02:12-13
1 Samuel 17:46
2 Corinthians 02:15
2 Peter 01:3-4
Deuteronomy 04:39-40
Genesis 19:05
Luke 01:77

Word Data:

Strong's: H502, H1843, H1844, H1847, H1875, H2713, H2372, H3045, H3046, H3925, H4093, H4486, H5046, H5234, H5475, H5869, G50, G56, G1097, G1107, G1108, G1492, G1834, G1921, G1922, G1987, G2467, G5319, G2589, G2657, G4267, G4894, G5318

Forms Found in the English ULB:

knew, know, know ... beforehand, knowing, knowledge, known, knows, made ... known, made known, make ... known, makes known, unknowingly, unknown

labor

Related Ideas:

fellow laborers, forced labor, hard labor, hard-working, laborer, occupation, strive, struggle, toil

Definition:

The term "labor" refers to doing physical work of any kind.

In general, labor is any task which uses energy. It is often implied that the task is difficult.
A laborer is a person who does any type of labor.
In English, the word "labor" is also used for part of the process of giving birth. Other languages may have a completely different word for this.
Ways to translate "labor" could include "work" or "hard work" or "difficult work" or to "work hard."
"Toil" is hard, unpleasant work, and to "toil" is to do hard, unpleasant work.
An "occupation" is the work or labor that a person does to obtain food, clothing, shelter, and the other things he needs to live.
Sometimes "strive" and "struggle" mean to work very hard to do something.

(See also: hard, labor pains)

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 02:09
1 Thessalonians 03:05
Galatians 04:10-11
James 05:04
John 04:38
Luke 10:02
Matthew 10:10

Word Data:

Strong's: H3018, H3021, H3022, H3205, H4522, H4639, H5447, H5450, H5647, H5656, H5998, H5999, H6001, H6089, H6468, H8104, G75, G2038, G2040, G2041, G2716, G2872, G2873, G3449, G4866, G4904

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fellow laborers, forced labor, hard labor, hard-working, labor, labored, laborer, laborer's, laborers, laboring, labors, occupation, product of ... labor, products of ... labor, strive, strives, striving together, struggle, toil, toiled, toiling, toils

labor

Related Ideas:

fellow laborers, forced labor, hard labor, hard-working, laborer, occupation, strive, struggle, toil

Definition:

The term "labor" refers to doing physical work of any kind.

In general, labor is any task which uses energy. It is often implied that the task is difficult.
A laborer is a person who does any type of labor.
In English, the word "labor" is also used for part of the process of giving birth. Other languages may have a completely different word for this.
Ways to translate "labor" could include "work" or "hard work" or "difficult work" or to "work hard."
"Toil" is hard, unpleasant work, and to "toil" is to do hard, unpleasant work.
An "occupation" is the work or labor that a person does to obtain food, clothing, shelter, and the other things he needs to live.
Sometimes "strive" and "struggle" mean to work very hard to do something.

(See also: hard, labor pains)

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 02:09
1 Thessalonians 03:05
Galatians 04:10-11
James 05:04
John 04:38
Luke 10:02
Matthew 10:10

Word Data:

Strong's: H3018, H3021, H3022, H3205, H4522, H4639, H5447, H5450, H5647, H5656, H5998, H5999, H6001, H6089, H6468, H8104, G75, G2038, G2040, G2041, G2716, G2872, G2873, G3449, G4866, G4904

Forms Found in the English ULB:

law

Related Ideas:

lawbreaker, lawgiver, lawyer, principle

Definition:

A "law" is a legal rule that is usually written down and enforced by someone in authority. A "principle" is a guideline for decision-making and behavior.

Often the term "law" refers to the "law of Moses." This is the commands and instructions that God gave the Israelites.
God is the lawgiver, the one who made the laws and commanded people to obey them.
A "lawyer" is a person who studies the law and understands it well.
Both "law" and "principle" can refer to a general rule or belief that guides a person's behavior.
A person who "is principled" is a person who does what is good.

(See also: law of Moses)

Bible References:

Deuteronomy 04:02
Esther 03:8-9
Exodus 12:12-14
Genesis 26:05
John 18:31
Romans 07:1

Word Data:

Strong's: H1285, H1881, H1882, H2706, H2708, H2710, H4687, H4941, H5715, H7560, H7771, H8451, G1785, G3544, G3548, G3551, G3848, G4747

Forms Found in the English ULB:

law, lawbreaker, lawbreakers, lawgiver, laws, lawyer, principle, principled, principles

life

Related Ideas:

alive, come to life, conduct, exist, fresh, life-giving, lifetime, live, revive, survive, survivor

Definition:

All these terms refer to being physically alive, not dead. They are also used figuratively to refer to being alive spiritually. The following discusses what is meant by "physical life" and "spiritual life."

1. Physical life

Physical life is the presence of the spirit in the body. God breathed life into Adam's body, and he became a living being.
A "life" can also refer to an individual person as in "a life was saved".
Sometimes the word "life" refers to the experience of living as in, "his life was enjoyable."
It can also refer to a person's lifespan, as in the expression, "the end of his life."
The term "living" may refer to being physically alive, as in "my mother is still living." It may also refer to dwelling somewhere as in, "they were living in the city."
In the Bible, the concept of "life" is often contrasted with the concept of "death."
To "revive" is for someone who is dead or almost dead to live again, or to take something or someone who is dead or almost dead and make him live again.
A person who "survives" has almost died for some reason but is still alive.
The same Hebrew words can be translated "fresh" water or "living" water.
Things that are "lifeless" either have never been alive or were once alive but are now dead.
The way a person "conducts" himself or his life is the way he lives his life, most importantly the morally good or bad things he does.

2. Spiritual life

A person has spiritual life when he believes in Jesus. God gives that person a transformed life with the Holy Spirit living in him.
This life is also called "eternal life" to indicate that it does not end.
The opposite of spiritual life is spiritual death, which means being separated from God and experiencing eternal punishment.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "life" can be translated as "existence" or "person" or "soul" or "being" or "experience."
Depending on the context, the term "live" could be translated by "dwell" or "reside" or "exist."
The expression "end of his life" could be translated as "when he stopped living."
The expression "spared their lives' could be translated as "allowed them to live" or "did not kill them."
The expression "they risked their lives" could be translated as "they put themselves in danger" or "they did something that could have killed them."
Depending on the context, the expression "give life" could also be translated as "cause to live" or "give eternal life" or "cause to live eternally." The word "life-giving" can be translated as "something that causes to live" or "something that gives life."

(See also: death, eternity)

Bible References:

2 Peter 01:03
Acts 10:42
Genesis 02:07
Genesis 07:22
Hebrews 10:20
Jeremiah 44:02
John 01:04
Judges 02:18
Luke 12:23
Matthew 07:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H2416, H2417, H2418, H2421, H2425, H2465, H2673, H3351, H3824, H3885, H4241, H5315, H5397, H5564, H6106, H7611, H8141, H8300, G326, G386, G390, G895, G979, G980, G981, G982, G1127, G1236, G1514, G2198, G2222, G2225, G2227, G2450, G3118, G4176, G4684, G4748, G4763, G4800, G4806, G5171, G5225, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

alive, come to life, conduct, conducted, existed, fresh, keep ... alive, life, life-giving, lifeless, lifetime, live, lived, lives, living, revive, revived, survive, survived, survivor, survivors

life

Related Ideas:

alive, come to life, conduct, exist, fresh, life-giving, lifetime, live, revive, survive, survivor

Definition:

1. Physical life

Physical life is the presence of the spirit in the body. God breathed life into Adam's body, and he became a living being.
A "life" can also refer to an individual person as in "a life was saved".
Sometimes the word "life" refers to the experience of living as in, "his life was enjoyable."
It can also refer to a person's lifespan, as in the expression, "the end of his life."
The term "living" may refer to being physically alive, as in "my mother is still living." It may also refer to dwelling somewhere as in, "they were living in the city."
In the Bible, the concept of "life" is often contrasted with the concept of "death."
To "revive" is for someone who is dead or almost dead to live again, or to take something or someone who is dead or almost dead and make him live again.
A person who "survives" has almost died for some reason but is still alive.
The same Hebrew words can be translated "fresh" water or "living" water.
Things that are "lifeless" either have never been alive or were once alive but are now dead.
The way a person "conducts" himself or his life is the way he lives his life, most importantly the morally good or bad things he does.

2. Spiritual life

A person has spiritual life when he believes in Jesus. God gives that person a transformed life with the Holy Spirit living in him.
This life is also called "eternal life" to indicate that it does not end.
The opposite of spiritual life is spiritual death, which means being separated from God and experiencing eternal punishment.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "life" can be translated as "existence" or "person" or "soul" or "being" or "experience."
Depending on the context, the term "live" could be translated by "dwell" or "reside" or "exist."
The expression "end of his life" could be translated as "when he stopped living."
The expression "spared their lives' could be translated as "allowed them to live" or "did not kill them."
The expression "they risked their lives" could be translated as "they put themselves in danger" or "they did something that could have killed them."
Depending on the context, the expression "give life" could also be translated as "cause to live" or "give eternal life" or "cause to live eternally." The word "life-giving" can be translated as "something that causes to live" or "something that gives life."

(See also: death, eternity)

Bible References:

2 Peter 01:03
Acts 10:42
Genesis 02:07
Genesis 07:22
Hebrews 10:20
Jeremiah 44:02
John 01:04
Judges 02:18
Luke 12:23
Matthew 07:14

Word Data:

Strong's: H2416, H2417, H2418, H2421, H2425, H2465, H2673, H3351, H3824, H3885, H4241, H5315, H5397, H5564, H6106, H7611, H8141, H8300, G326, G386, G390, G895, G979, G980, G981, G982, G1127, G1236, G1514, G2198, G2222, G2225, G2227, G2450, G3118, G4176, G4684, G4748, G4763, G4800, G4806, G5171, G5225, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

alive, come to life, conduct, conducted, existed, fresh, keep ... alive, life, life-giving, lifeless, lifetime, live, lived, lives, living, revive, revived, survive, survived, survivor, survivors

light

Related Ideas:

bright, brightness, enlighten, shine

Definition:

There are several figurative uses of the term "light" in the Bible. It is often used as a metaphor for righteousness, holiness, and truth.

Jesus said, "I am the light of the world" to express that he brings God's true message to the world and rescues people from the darkness of their sin.
Christians are commanded to "walk in the light," which means they should be living the way God wants them to and avoiding evil.
The apostle John stated that "God is light" and in him there is no darkness at all.
Light and darkness are complete opposites. Darkness is the absence of all light.
Jesus said that he was "the light of the world" and that his followers should shine like lights in the world by living in a way that clearly shows how great God is.
"Walking in the light" represents living in a way that pleases God, doing what is good and right. Walking in darkness represents living in rebellion against God, doing evil things.

Translation Suggestions:

When translating, it is important to keep the literal terms "light" and "darkness" even when they are used figuratively.
It may be necessary to explain the comparison in the text. For example, "walk as children of light" could be translated as, "live openly righteous lives, like someone who walks in bright sunlight."
Make sure that the translation of "light" does not refer to an object that gives light, such as a lamp. The translation of this term should refer to the light itself.

(See also: darkness, holy, righteous, true)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 John 02:08
2 Corinthians 04:06
Acts 26:18
Isaiah 02:05
John 01:05
Matthew 05:16
Matthew 06:23
Nehemiah 09:12-13
Revelation 18:23-24

Word Data:

Strong's: H216, H217, H3313, H3974, H5051, H5094, H5105, H5216, G681, G796, G1391, G1645, G2985, G2986, G3088, G5338, G5457, G5458, G5460, G5462

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bright, brightness, enlighten, enlightened, light, lighting, lights, shining

like

Related Ideas:

according to, alike, as, as if, compare, in the same way, just as, liken, likeness, likewise, resemble, similar, similarly, unlike

Definition:

The terms "like" and "likeness" refer to something being the same as, or similar to, something else.

To "compare" two things is to look at how they are the same or how they are different.
The word "like" is also often used in a figurative expressions called a "simile" in which something is compared to something else, usually highlighting a shared characteristic. For example, "his clothes shined like the sun" and "the voice boomed like thunder."
To "be like" or "sound like" or "look like" something or someone means to have qualities that are similar to the thing or person being compared to.
People were created in God's "likeness," that is, in his "image." It means that they have qualities or characteristics that are "like" or "similar to" qualities that God has, such as the ability to think, feel, and communicate.
To have "the likeness of" something or someone means to have characteristics that look like that thing or person.
The word "likewise" means "in the same way," referring to something that the speaker has just said.
The word "unlike" means "not like."

Translation Suggestions

In some contexts, the expression "the likeness of" could be translated as "what looked like" or "what appeared to be."
The expression "in the likeness of his death" could be translated as "sharing in the experience of his death" or "as if experiencing his death with him."
The expression "in the likeness of sinful flesh" could be translated as "being like a sinful human being" or to "be a human being." Make sure the translation of this expression does not sound like Jesus was sinful.
"In his own likeness" could also be translated as to "be like him" or "having many of the same qualities that he has."
The expression "the likeness of an image of perishable man, of birds, of four-footed beasts and of creeping things" could be translated as "idols made to look like perishable humans, or animals, such as birds, beasts, and small, crawling things."

(See also: beast, flesh, image of God, image, perish)

Bible References:

Ezekiel 01:05
Mark 08:24
Matthew 17:02
Matthew 18:03
Psalms 073:05
Revelation 01:12-13

Word Data:

Strong's: H1819, H1823, H3644, H4915, H7737, H8403, H8544, G1503, G1504, G2509, G2531, G3664, G3665, G3666, G3667, G3668, G3669, G3697, G4793, G4833, G5108, G5615, G5616, G5618, G5619

Forms Found in the English ULB:

according to, alike, as, as if, be ... like, become ... like, compare, in the same way, is ... like, just as, like, liken, likeness, likenesses, likewise, resemble, resembled, similar to, similarly, the same, the same way, unlike

like

Related Ideas:

according to, alike, as, as if, compare, in the same way, just as, liken, likeness, likewise, resemble, similar, similarly, unlike

Definition:

The terms "like" and "likeness" refer to something being the same as, or similar to, something else.

To "compare" two things is to look at how they are the same or how they are different.
The word "like" is also often used in a figurative expressions called a "simile" in which something is compared to something else, usually highlighting a shared characteristic. For example, "his clothes shined like the sun" and "the voice boomed like thunder."
To "be like" or "sound like" or "look like" something or someone means to have qualities that are similar to the thing or person being compared to.
People were created in God's "likeness," that is, in his "image." It means that they have qualities or characteristics that are "like" or "similar to" qualities that God has, such as the ability to think, feel, and communicate.
To have "the likeness of" something or someone means to have characteristics that look like that thing or person.
The word "likewise" means "in the same way," referring to something that the speaker has just said.
The word "unlike" means "not like."

Translation Suggestions

In some contexts, the expression "the likeness of" could be translated as "what looked like" or "what appeared to be."
The expression "in the likeness of his death" could be translated as "sharing in the experience of his death" or "as if experiencing his death with him."
The expression "in the likeness of sinful flesh" could be translated as "being like a sinful human being" or to "be a human being." Make sure the translation of this expression does not sound like Jesus was sinful.
"In his own likeness" could also be translated as to "be like him" or "having many of the same qualities that he has."
The expression "the likeness of an image of perishable man, of birds, of four-footed beasts and of creeping things" could be translated as "idols made to look like perishable humans, or animals, such as birds, beasts, and small, crawling things."

(See also: beast, flesh, image of God, image, perish)

Bible References:

Ezekiel 01:05
Mark 08:24
Matthew 17:02
Matthew 18:03
Psalms 073:05
Revelation 01:12-13

Word Data:

Strong's: H1819, H1823, H3644, H4915, H7737, H8403, H8544, G1503, G1504, G2509, G2531, G3664, G3665, G3666, G3667, G3668, G3669, G3697, G4793, G4833, G5108, G5615, G5616, G5618, G5619

Forms Found in the English ULB:

lion

Related Ideas:

lioness

Definition:

A lion is a large, cat-like, that has animal, with powerful teeth and claws for killing and tearing apart its prey.

Lions have powerful bodies and great speed to catch their prey. Their fur is short and golden-brown.
Male lions have a mane of hair that encircles their heads.
Lions kill other animals to eat them and can be dangerous to human beings.
When King David was a boy, he killed lions that tried to attack the sheep he was caring for.
Samson also killed a lion, with his bare hands.
A "lioness" is a female lion.

(See also: David, leopard, Samson, sheep)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 11:22-23
1 Kings 07:29
Proverbs 19:12
Psalms 017:12
Revelation 05:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H738, H739, H744, H3715, H3833, H3918, H7826, H7830, G3023

Forms Found in the English ULB:

lion, lion's, lioness, lionesses, lions, lions'

love

Related Ideas:

brotherly love

Definition:

To love another person is to care for that person and do things that will benefit him. There are different meanings for "love" some languages may express using different words:

The kind of love that comes from God is focused on having good things happen to others even when those good things do not happen to the one who loves. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do. God himself is love and is the source of true love.
Jesus showed this kind of love by sacrificing his life in order to rescue us from sin and death. He also taught his followers to love others sacrificially.
When people love others with this kind of love, they act in ways that show they are thinking of what will cause the others to thrive. This kind of love especially includes forgiving others.
In the ULB, the word "love" refers to this kind of sacrificial love, unless a Translation Note indicates a different meaning.
Another word in the New Testament refers to brotherly love, or love for a friend or family member.
This term refers to natural human love between friends or relatives.
The term can also be used in such contexts as, "They love to sit in the most important seats at a banquet." This means that they "like very much" or "greatly desire" to do that.
The word "love" can also refer to romantic love between a man and a woman.
In the figurative expression "Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated," the term "loved" refers to God's choosing of Jacob to be in a covenant relationship with him. This could also be translated as "chosen." Although Esau was also blessed by God, he wasn't given the privilege of being in the covenant. The term "hated" is used figuratively here to mean "rejected" or "not chosen."

Translation Suggestions:

Unless indicated otherwise in a Translation Note, the word "love" in the ULB refers to the kind of sacrificial love that comes from God.
Some languages may have a special word for the kind of unselfish, sacrificial love that God has. Ways to translate this might include, "devoted, faithful caring" or "care for unselfishly" or "love from God." Make sure that the word used to translate God's love can include giving up one's own interests to benefit others and loving others no matter what they do.
Sometimes the English word "love" describes the deep caring that people have for friends and family members. Some languages might translate this with a word or phrase that means, "like very much" or "care for" or "have strong affection for."
In contexts where the word "love" is used to express a strong preference for something, this could be translated by "strongly prefer" or "like very much" or "greatly desire."
Some languages may also have a separate word that refers to romantic or sexual love between a husband and wife.
Many languages must express "love" as an action. So for example, they might translate "love is patient, love is kind" as, "when a person loves someone, he is patient with him and kind to him."

(See also: covenant, death, sacrifice, save, sin)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 13:07
1 John 03:02
1 Thessalonians 04:10
Galatians 05:23
Genesis 29:18
Isaiah 56:06
Jeremiah 02:02
John 03:16
Matthew 10:37
Nehemiah 09:32-34
Philippians 01:09
Song of Solomon 01:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H157, H158, H159, H160, H1730, H2245, H2532, H2617, H2836, H3039, H4261, H5689, H5690, H7355, H7356, H7453, H7474, G25, G26, G5360, G5361, G5362, G5363, G5365, G5367, G5368, G5369, G5377, G5383, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brotherly love, love, loved, loves, loving

love

Related Ideas:

brotherly love

Definition:

To love another person is to care for that person and do things that will benefit him. There are different meanings for "love" some languages may express using different words:

The kind of love that comes from God is focused on having good things happen to others even when those good things do not happen to the one who loves. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do. God himself is love and is the source of true love.
Jesus showed this kind of love by sacrificing his life in order to rescue us from sin and death. He also taught his followers to love others sacrificially.
When people love others with this kind of love, they act in ways that show they are thinking of what will cause the others to thrive. This kind of love especially includes forgiving others.
In the ULB, the word "love" refers to this kind of sacrificial love, unless a Translation Note indicates a different meaning.
Another word in the New Testament refers to brotherly love, or love for a friend or family member.
This term refers to natural human love between friends or relatives.
The term can also be used in such contexts as, "They love to sit in the most important seats at a banquet." This means that they "like very much" or "greatly desire" to do that.
The word "love" can also refer to romantic love between a man and a woman.
In the figurative expression "Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated," the term "loved" refers to God's choosing of Jacob to be in a covenant relationship with him. This could also be translated as "chosen." Although Esau was also blessed by God, he wasn't given the privilege of being in the covenant. The term "hated" is used figuratively here to mean "rejected" or "not chosen."

Translation Suggestions:

Unless indicated otherwise in a Translation Note, the word "love" in the ULB refers to the kind of sacrificial love that comes from God.
Some languages may have a special word for the kind of unselfish, sacrificial love that God has. Ways to translate this might include, "devoted, faithful caring" or "care for unselfishly" or "love from God." Make sure that the word used to translate God's love can include giving up one's own interests to benefit others and loving others no matter what they do.
Sometimes the English word "love" describes the deep caring that people have for friends and family members. Some languages might translate this with a word or phrase that means, "like very much" or "care for" or "have strong affection for."
In contexts where the word "love" is used to express a strong preference for something, this could be translated by "strongly prefer" or "like very much" or "greatly desire."
Some languages may also have a separate word that refers to romantic or sexual love between a husband and wife.
Many languages must express "love" as an action. So for example, they might translate "love is patient, love is kind" as, "when a person loves someone, he is patient with him and kind to him."

(See also: covenant, death, sacrifice, save, sin)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 13:07
1 John 03:02
1 Thessalonians 04:10
Galatians 05:23
Genesis 29:18
Isaiah 56:06
Jeremiah 02:02
John 03:16
Matthew 10:37
Nehemiah 09:32-34
Philippians 01:09
Song of Solomon 01:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H157, H158, H159, H160, H1730, H2245, H2532, H2617, H2836, H3039, H4261, H5689, H5690, H7355, H7356, H7453, H7474, G25, G26, G5360, G5361, G5362, G5363, G5365, G5367, G5368, G5369, G5377, G5383, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brotherly love, love, loved, loves, loving

love

Related Ideas:

brotherly love

Definition:

To love another person is to care for that person and do things that will benefit him. There are different meanings for "love" some languages may express using different words:

The kind of love that comes from God is focused on having good things happen to others even when those good things do not happen to the one who loves. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do. God himself is love and is the source of true love.
Jesus showed this kind of love by sacrificing his life in order to rescue us from sin and death. He also taught his followers to love others sacrificially.
When people love others with this kind of love, they act in ways that show they are thinking of what will cause the others to thrive. This kind of love especially includes forgiving others.
In the ULB, the word "love" refers to this kind of sacrificial love, unless a Translation Note indicates a different meaning.
Another word in the New Testament refers to brotherly love, or love for a friend or family member.
This term refers to natural human love between friends or relatives.
The term can also be used in such contexts as, "They love to sit in the most important seats at a banquet." This means that they "like very much" or "greatly desire" to do that.
The word "love" can also refer to romantic love between a man and a woman.
In the figurative expression "Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated," the term "loved" refers to God's choosing of Jacob to be in a covenant relationship with him. This could also be translated as "chosen." Although Esau was also blessed by God, he wasn't given the privilege of being in the covenant. The term "hated" is used figuratively here to mean "rejected" or "not chosen."

Translation Suggestions:

Unless indicated otherwise in a Translation Note, the word "love" in the ULB refers to the kind of sacrificial love that comes from God.
Some languages may have a special word for the kind of unselfish, sacrificial love that God has. Ways to translate this might include, "devoted, faithful caring" or "care for unselfishly" or "love from God." Make sure that the word used to translate God's love can include giving up one's own interests to benefit others and loving others no matter what they do.
Sometimes the English word "love" describes the deep caring that people have for friends and family members. Some languages might translate this with a word or phrase that means, "like very much" or "care for" or "have strong affection for."
In contexts where the word "love" is used to express a strong preference for something, this could be translated by "strongly prefer" or "like very much" or "greatly desire."
Some languages may also have a separate word that refers to romantic or sexual love between a husband and wife.
Many languages must express "love" as an action. So for example, they might translate "love is patient, love is kind" as, "when a person loves someone, he is patient with him and kind to him."

(See also: covenant, death, sacrifice, save, sin)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 13:07
1 John 03:02
1 Thessalonians 04:10
Galatians 05:23
Genesis 29:18
Isaiah 56:06
Jeremiah 02:02
John 03:16
Matthew 10:37
Nehemiah 09:32-34
Philippians 01:09
Song of Solomon 01:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H157, H158, H159, H160, H1730, H2245, H2532, H2617, H2836, H3039, H4261, H5689, H5690, H7355, H7356, H7453, H7474, G25, G26, G5360, G5361, G5362, G5363, G5365, G5367, G5368, G5369, G5377, G5383, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brotherly love, love, loved, loves, loving

love

Related Ideas:

brotherly love

Definition:

To love another person is to care for that person and do things that will benefit him. There are different meanings for "love" some languages may express using different words:

The kind of love that comes from God is focused on having good things happen to others even when those good things do not happen to the one who loves. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do. God himself is love and is the source of true love.
Jesus showed this kind of love by sacrificing his life in order to rescue us from sin and death. He also taught his followers to love others sacrificially.
When people love others with this kind of love, they act in ways that show they are thinking of what will cause the others to thrive. This kind of love especially includes forgiving others.
In the ULB, the word "love" refers to this kind of sacrificial love, unless a Translation Note indicates a different meaning.
Another word in the New Testament refers to brotherly love, or love for a friend or family member.
This term refers to natural human love between friends or relatives.
The term can also be used in such contexts as, "They love to sit in the most important seats at a banquet." This means that they "like very much" or "greatly desire" to do that.
The word "love" can also refer to romantic love between a man and a woman.
In the figurative expression "Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated," the term "loved" refers to God's choosing of Jacob to be in a covenant relationship with him. This could also be translated as "chosen." Although Esau was also blessed by God, he wasn't given the privilege of being in the covenant. The term "hated" is used figuratively here to mean "rejected" or "not chosen."

Translation Suggestions:

Unless indicated otherwise in a Translation Note, the word "love" in the ULB refers to the kind of sacrificial love that comes from God.
Some languages may have a special word for the kind of unselfish, sacrificial love that God has. Ways to translate this might include, "devoted, faithful caring" or "care for unselfishly" or "love from God." Make sure that the word used to translate God's love can include giving up one's own interests to benefit others and loving others no matter what they do.
Sometimes the English word "love" describes the deep caring that people have for friends and family members. Some languages might translate this with a word or phrase that means, "like very much" or "care for" or "have strong affection for."
In contexts where the word "love" is used to express a strong preference for something, this could be translated by "strongly prefer" or "like very much" or "greatly desire."
Some languages may also have a separate word that refers to romantic or sexual love between a husband and wife.
Many languages must express "love" as an action. So for example, they might translate "love is patient, love is kind" as, "when a person loves someone, he is patient with him and kind to him."

(See also: covenant, death, sacrifice, save, sin)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 13:07
1 John 03:02
1 Thessalonians 04:10
Galatians 05:23
Genesis 29:18
Isaiah 56:06
Jeremiah 02:02
John 03:16
Matthew 10:37
Nehemiah 09:32-34
Philippians 01:09
Song of Solomon 01:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H157, H158, H159, H160, H1730, H2245, H2532, H2617, H2836, H3039, H4261, H5689, H5690, H7355, H7356, H7453, H7474, G25, G26, G5360, G5361, G5362, G5363, G5365, G5367, G5368, G5369, G5377, G5383, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brotherly love, love, loved, loves, loving

lust

Related Ideas:

crave, desire, lustful, lusting, passion, sensual, sensuality

Definition:

Lust is a very strong desire, usually for something sinful or immoral. To lust is to have lust.

In the Bible, "lust" usually referred to sexual desire for someone other than one's own spouse.
Sometimes this term was used in a figurative sense to refer to worshiping idols.
Depending on the context, "lust" could be translated as "wrong desire" or "strong desire" or "wrongful sexual desire" or "strong immoral desire" or to "strongly desire to sin."
The phrase to "lust after" could be translated as to "wrongly desire" or to "think immorally about" or to "immorally desire."
To "crave" is to desire strongly.
"Sensuality" is the desire to satisfy sensual desires, to experience sensual pleasures, particularly sexual pleasure.

(See also: adultery, god)

Bible References:

1 John 02:16
2 Timothy 02:22
Galatians 05:16
Galatians 05:19-21
Genesis 39:7-9
Matthew 05:28

Word Data:

Strong's: H183, H185, H1730, H2181, H2183, H2530, H2532, H2656, H5178, H5315, H5375, H5689, H5691, H5869, H7843, G766, G1014, G1937, G1939, G3713, G3715, G3806

Forms Found in the English ULB:

crave, craves, desirable, desire, desired, desires, lust, lusted, lustful, lusting, lusts, passion, sensual, sensuality

majesty

Related Ideas:

great, greatness, magnificent, majestic

Definition:

The term "majesty" refers to greatness and splendor, often in relation to the qualities of a king.

In the Bible, "majesty" frequently refers to the greatness of God, who is the supreme King over the universe.
"Your Majesty" is a way of addressing a king.

Translation Suggestions:

This term could be translated as "kingly greatness" or "royal splendor."
"Your Majesty" could be translated as something like "your Highness" or "your Excellency" or using a natural way of addressing a ruler in the target language.
To be "great" is to be more famous or powerful or good than most people. Great kings are more powerful than most other kings. Great people are good or famous or powerful, but they do not have to be kings.
"Magnificent" deeds are deeds worthy of a king or a great person or divine being.

(See also: king)

Bible References:

2 Peter 01:16-18
Daniel 04:36
Isaiah 02:10
Jude 01:25
Micah 05:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H117, H1347, H1348, H1419, H1420, H1431, H1923, H1926, H1935, H4768, H7227, H7229, H7238, H7613, H7690, G3168, G3169, G3172, G3173

Forms Found in the English ULB:

great, greater, greatest, greatness, magnificent, majestic, majesty

member

Definition:

The term "member" refers to one part of a complex body or group.

The New Testament describes Christians as "members" of the body of Christ. Believers in Christ belong to a group that is made up of many members.
Jesus Christ is the "head" of the body and individual believers function as the members of the body. The Holy Spirit gives each member of the body a special role to help the entire body to function well.
Individuals who participate in groups such as the Jewish Council and the Pharisees are also called "members" of these groups.

(See also: body, Pharisee, council)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 06:15
1 Corinthians 12:14-17
Numbers 16:02
Romans 12:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H1004, H1121, H3338, H5315, G1010, G3196, G3609

Forms Found in the English ULB:

member, members

mercy

Related Ideas:

kindness, merciful, spare

Definition:

The terms "mercy" and "merciful" refer to helping people who are in need, especially when they are in a lowly or humbled condition.

The term "mercy" can also include the meaning of not punishing people for something they have done wrong.
A powerful person such as a king is described as "merciful" when he treats people kindly instead of harming them.
To "be merciful" or "spare" someone who has done wrong to another means to forgive that person.
An evil person who "spares" those who have done nothing wrong does not do the same wrong to them that he has done to others.
We show mercy when we help people who are in great need.
God is merciful to us, and he wants us to be merciful to others.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "mercy" could be translated as "kindness" or "compassion" or "pity."
The term "merciful" could be translated as "showing pity" or "being kind to" or "forgiving."
To "show mercy to" or "have mercy on" could be translated as "treat kindly" or "be compassionate toward."

(See also: compassion, forgive)

Bible References:

1 Peter 01:3-5
1 Timothy 01:13
Daniel 09:17
Exodus 34:06
Genesis 19:16
Hebrews 10:28-29
James 02:13
Luke 06:35-36
Matthew 09:27
Philippians 02:25-27
Psalms 041:4-6
Romans 12:01

Word Data:

Strong's: H2550, H2551, H2603, H2604, H2617, H3722, H7349, H7355, H7356, H7359, H8467, G1653, G1655, G1656, G2433, G2436, G3628, G3629, G4698, G5363, G5544

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kindness, mercies, merciful, mercy, spare, spared, spares, tender mercy

mercy

Related Ideas:

kindness, merciful, spare

Definition:

The terms "mercy" and "merciful" refer to helping people who are in need, especially when they are in a lowly or humbled condition.

The term "mercy" can also include the meaning of not punishing people for something they have done wrong.
A powerful person such as a king is described as "merciful" when he treats people kindly instead of harming them.
To "be merciful" or "spare" someone who has done wrong to another means to forgive that person.
An evil person who "spares" those who have done nothing wrong does not do the same wrong to them that he has done to others.
We show mercy when we help people who are in great need.
God is merciful to us, and he wants us to be merciful to others.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "mercy" could be translated as "kindness" or "compassion" or "pity."
The term "merciful" could be translated as "showing pity" or "being kind to" or "forgiving."
To "show mercy to" or "have mercy on" could be translated as "treat kindly" or "be compassionate toward."

(See also: compassion, forgive)

Bible References:

1 Peter 01:3-5
1 Timothy 01:13
Daniel 09:17
Exodus 34:06
Genesis 19:16
Hebrews 10:28-29
James 02:13
Luke 06:35-36
Matthew 09:27
Philippians 02:25-27
Psalms 041:4-6
Romans 12:01

Word Data:

Strong's: H2550, H2551, H2603, H2604, H2617, H3722, H7349, H7355, H7356, H7359, H8467, G1653, G1655, G1656, G2433, G2436, G3628, G3629, G4698, G5363, G5544

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kindness, mercies, merciful, mercy, spare, spared, spares, tender mercy

mind

Related Ideas:

expect, intention, likeminded, mindful, sober, think

Definition:

The term "mind" refers to the part of a person that thinks and makes decisions.

The mind of each person is the total of his or her thoughts and reasoning.
To "have the mind of Christ" means to think and act as Jesus Christ would think and act. It means being obedient to God the Father, obeying the teachings of Christ, being enabled to do this through the power of the Holy Spirit.
To "change his mind" means someone made a different decision or had a different opinion than he had previously.
To "expect" something is to think that it will happen.
To "think" can mean to use one's mind to form ideas.
To "think" can also mean to have a belief or opinion about something.
To "intend" or "have an intention" to do something is to decide or to plan to do that thing. That thing may be good or evil, and the person may or may not want to do it, but he plans to do it.
A person who is "sober" is able to think clearly, especially in contrast to a person who has harmed his mind by drinking to much wine.

Translation Suggestions

The term "mind" could also be translated as "thoughts" or "reasoning" or "thinking" or "understanding."
The expression "keep in mind" could be translated as "remember" or "pay attention to this" or "be sure to know this."
The expression "heart, soul, and mind" could also be translated as "what you feel, what you believe, and what you think about."
The expression "call to mind" could be translated as "remember" or "think about."
The expression "double-minded" could also be translated as "doubting" or "unable to decide" or "with conflicting thoughts."

(See also: believe, heart, soul)

Bible References:

Luke 10:27
Mark 06:51-52
Matthew 21:29
Matthew 22:37
James 04:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H226, H1079, G1380, H1843, H3629, H3820, H3824, H3825, H4093, H4150, H5162, H6419, H6725, H6734, H7217, H7725, G364, G1271, G1374, G1839, G2233, G2657, G3328, G3525, G3539, G3540, G3563, G4102, G4993, G5280, G5426, G5427, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

expect, expected, intention, likeminded, mind, minded, mindful, minds, sober, think, think carefully about, thinks, thought, thoughts

mock

Related Ideas:

defy, laughingstock, mocker, mockery, ridicule, scoff at, taunt

Definition:

The terms "mock," ridicule," "scoff at," and "taunt" all refer to making fun of someone, especially in a cruel way.

Mocking often involves imitating people's words or actions with the intent to embarrass them or show contempt for them.
The Roman soldiers mocked or ridiculed Jesus when they put a robe on him and pretended to honor him as king.
A group of young people ridiculed or scoffed at Elisha when they called him a name, making fun of his bald head.
The term "scoff at" can also refer to ridiculing an idea that is not considered believable or important.
A "mocker" is someone who mocks and ridicules consistently.
A person who "defies" another mockingly challenges that other person to do something the mocker believes the other person cannot do.

Bible References:

2 Peter 03:04
Acts 02:12-13
Galatians 06:6-8
Genesis 39:13-15
Luke 22:63-65
Mark 10:34
Matthew 09:23-24
Matthew 20:19
Matthew 27:29

Word Data:

Strong's: H1422, H2048, H2049, H2778, H2781, H3213, H3887, H3931, H3932, H3933, H3934, H3944, H3945, H4167, H4426, H4485, H4912, H5058, H5607, H6026, H6711, H7046, H7048, H7814, H7832, H8103, H8437, H8591, H8595, G1592, G1701, G1702, G1703, G2301, G2606, G3456, G5512

Forms Found in the English ULB:

defied, defy, laugh in mockery, laughingstock, mock, mocked, mocker, mockers, mockery, mocking, mocks, ridicule, ridiculed, scoff at, scoffed at, scoffing, taunted, taunting song, taunts

name

Related Ideas:

fame, nameless, notorious, reputation

Definition:

In the Bible, the word "name" was used in several figurative ways.

In some contexts, "name" could refer to a person's reputation, as in "let us make a name for ourselves."
The term "name" could also refer to the memory of something. For example, "cut off the names of the idols" means to destroy those idols so that they are no longer remembered or worshiped.
Speaking "in the name of God" meant speaking with his power and authority, or as his representative.
The "name" of someone could refer to the entire person, as in "there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."
People who are "nameless" are unimportant, so few people know about them or care about them.
A person who is "notorious" is one who has a reputation for evil or foolishness.

Translation Suggestions:

An expression like "his good name" could be translated as "his good reputation."
Doing something "in the name of" could be translated as "with the authority of" or "with the permission of" or "as the representative of" that person.
The expression "make a name for ourselves" could be translated "cause many people to know about us" or "make people think we are very important."
The expression "call his name" could be translated as "name him" or "give him the name."
The expression "those who love your name" could be translated as "those who love you."
The expression "cut off the names of idols" could be translated as "get rid of pagan idols so that they are not even remembered" or "cause people to stop worshiping false gods" or "completely destroy all idols so that people no longer even think about them."

(See also: call)

Bible References:

1 John 02:12
2 Timothy 02:19
Acts 04:07
Acts 04:12
Acts 09:27
Genesis 12:02
Genesis 35:10
Matthew 18:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H5344, H7761, H8034, H8036, G2028, G2564, G3140, G3141, G3686, G3687, G5122

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fame, name, name's, named, nameless, names, notorious, reputation

name

Related Ideas:

fame, nameless, notorious, reputation

Definition:

In the Bible, the word "name" was used in several figurative ways.

In some contexts, "name" could refer to a person's reputation, as in "let us make a name for ourselves."
The term "name" could also refer to the memory of something. For example, "cut off the names of the idols" means to destroy those idols so that they are no longer remembered or worshiped.
Speaking "in the name of God" meant speaking with his power and authority, or as his representative.
The "name" of someone could refer to the entire person, as in "there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."
People who are "nameless" are unimportant, so few people know about them or care about them.
A person who is "notorious" is one who has a reputation for evil or foolishness.

Translation Suggestions:

An expression like "his good name" could be translated as "his good reputation."
Doing something "in the name of" could be translated as "with the authority of" or "with the permission of" or "as the representative of" that person.
The expression "make a name for ourselves" could be translated "cause many people to know about us" or "make people think we are very important."
The expression "call his name" could be translated as "name him" or "give him the name."
The expression "those who love your name" could be translated as "those who love you."
The expression "cut off the names of idols" could be translated as "get rid of pagan idols so that they are not even remembered" or "cause people to stop worshiping false gods" or "completely destroy all idols so that people no longer even think about them."

(See also: call)

Bible References:

1 John 02:12
2 Timothy 02:19
Acts 04:07
Acts 04:12
Acts 09:27
Genesis 12:02
Genesis 35:10
Matthew 18:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H5344, H7761, H8034, H8036, G2028, G2564, G3140, G3141, G3686, G3687, G5122

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fame, name, name's, named, nameless, names, notorious, reputation

nation

Definition:

A nation is a large group of people ruled by some form of government. The people of a nation often have the same ancestors and share a common ethnicity.

A "nation" usually has a well-defined culture and territorial boundaries.
In the Bible, a "nation" could be a country (like Egypt or Ethiopia), but often it is more general and refers to a people group, especially when used in the plural. It is important to check the context.
Nations in the Bible included the Israelites, the Philistines, the Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Canaanites, the Romans, and the Greeks, among many others.
Sometimes the word "nation" was used figuratively to refer to the ancestor of a certain people group, as when Rebekah was told by God that her unborn sons were "nations" that would fight against each other. This could be translated as "the founders of two nations" or the "ancestors of two people groups."
The word translated as "nation" was also sometimes used to refer to "Gentiles" or to people who do not worship Yahweh. The context usually makes the meaning clear.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the word "nation" could also be translated as "people group" or "people" or "country."
If a language has a term for "nation" that is distinct from these other terms, then that term can be used wherever it occurs in the Bible text, as long as it is natural and accurate in each context.
The plural term "nations" can often be translated as "people groups."
In certain contexts, this term could also be translated as "Gentiles" or "nonJews."

(See also: Assyria, Babylon, Canaan, Gentile, Greek, people group, Philistines, Rome)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 14:15-17
2 Chronicles 15:06
2 Kings 17:11-12
Acts 02:05
Acts 13:19
Acts 17:26
Acts 26:04
Daniel 03:04
Genesis 10:2-5
Genesis 27:29
Genesis 35:11
Genesis 49:10
Luke 07:05
Mark 13:7-8
Matthew 21:43
Romans 04:16-17

Word Data:

Strong's: H523, H524, H1471, H3816, H4940, H5971, G246, G1074, G1085, G1484

Forms Found in the English ULB:

nation, nations

obey

Related Ideas:

follow, give ear, hear, hold securely, hold to, keep, listen, obedience, obedient

Definition:

The term "obey" means to do what is required or commanded. The term "obedient" describes someone who obeys. "Obedience" is the characteristic that an obedient person has.

Usually the term "obey" is used in the context of obeying the commands or laws of a person in authority.
For example, people obey laws which are created by the leaders of a country, kingdom, or other organization.
Children obey their parents, slaves obey their masters, people obey God, and citizens obey the laws of their country.
When someone in authority commands people not to do something, the people obey by not doing that.
To "observe" a law or command is to obey it.
Other words used to refer to obeying someone or something are: follow, give ear, hear, hold securely, hold to, keep, listen.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "obey" could include a word or phrase that means "do what is commanded" or "follow orders" or "do what God says to do."
The term "obedient" could be translated as "doing what was commanded" or "following orders" or "doing what God commands."

(See also: citizen, command, disobey, kingdom, law)

Bible References:

Acts 05:32
Acts 06:7
Genesis 28:6-7
James 01:25
James 02:10
Luke 06:47
Matthew 07:26
Matthew 19:20-22
Matthew 28:20

Word Data:

Strong's: H2388, H3349, H4928, H5341, H6213, H7181, H8085, H8086, H8104, G191, G2722, G2902, G3980, G3982, G5083, G5084, G5218, G5219, G5255, G5292, G5293, G5426, G5442

Forms Found in the English ULB:

following, give ... ear, hear, heard, hold ... securely, hold to, keep, keeps, kept, listen, listened, listened to, obedience, obedient, obediently, obey, obeyed, obeying, obeys

peace

Related Ideas:

peaceable, peaceful, peacemaker, quiet

Definition:

The term "peace" refers to a state of being or a feeling of having no conflict, anxiety, or fearfulness. A person who is "peaceful" feels calm and assured of being safe and secure.

"Peace" can also refer to a time when people groups or countries are not at war with each other. These people are said to have "peaceful relations."
To "make peace" with a person or a group of people means to take actions to cause fighting to stop.
A "peacemaker" is someone who does and says things to influence people to live at peace with each other.
To be "at peace" with other people means being in a state of not fighting against those people.
A good or right relationship between God and people happens when God saves people from their sin. This is called having "peace with God."
The greeting "grace and peace" was used by the apostles in their letters to their fellow believers as a blessing.
The term "peace" can also refer to being in a good relationship with other people or with God.
A person who is "peaceable" acts in a way that enables him to live in peace with other people. He acts "peaceably."
To "quiet" someone is to get them to be at peace. To quiet a quarrel is to get the people to stop quarreling and be at peace with each other.

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 05:1-3
Acts 07:26
Colossians 01:18-20
Colossians 03:15
Galatians 05:23
Luke 07:50
Luke 12:51
Mark 04:39
Matthew 05:09
Matthew 10:13

Word Data:

Strong's: H5117, H7961, H7962, H7965, H7999, H8001, H8002, H8003, H8252, H8535, G269, G1514, G1515, G1516, G1517, G1518, G2272

Forms Found in the English ULB:

peace, peaceable, peaceably, peaceful, peacefully, peacemakers, quiet, quiets

peace

Related Ideas:

peaceable, peaceful, peacemaker, quiet

Definition:

The term "peace" refers to a state of being or a feeling of having no conflict, anxiety, or fearfulness. A person who is "peaceful" feels calm and assured of being safe and secure.

"Peace" can also refer to a time when people groups or countries are not at war with each other. These people are said to have "peaceful relations."
To "make peace" with a person or a group of people means to take actions to cause fighting to stop.
A "peacemaker" is someone who does and says things to influence people to live at peace with each other.
To be "at peace" with other people means being in a state of not fighting against those people.
A good or right relationship between God and people happens when God saves people from their sin. This is called having "peace with God."
The greeting "grace and peace" was used by the apostles in their letters to their fellow believers as a blessing.
The term "peace" can also refer to being in a good relationship with other people or with God.
A person who is "peaceable" acts in a way that enables him to live in peace with other people. He acts "peaceably."
To "quiet" someone is to get them to be at peace. To quiet a quarrel is to get the people to stop quarreling and be at peace with each other.

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 05:1-3
Acts 07:26
Colossians 01:18-20
Colossians 03:15
Galatians 05:23
Luke 07:50
Luke 12:51
Mark 04:39
Matthew 05:09
Matthew 10:13

Word Data:

Strong's: H5117, H7961, H7962, H7965, H7999, H8001, H8002, H8003, H8252, H8535, G269, G1514, G1515, G1516, G1517, G1518, G2272

Forms Found in the English ULB:

peace, peaceable, peaceably, peaceful, peacefully, peacemakers, quiet, quiets

peace

Related Ideas:

peaceable, peaceful, peacemaker, quiet

Definition:

The term "peace" refers to a state of being or a feeling of having no conflict, anxiety, or fearfulness. A person who is "peaceful" feels calm and assured of being safe and secure.

"Peace" can also refer to a time when people groups or countries are not at war with each other. These people are said to have "peaceful relations."
To "make peace" with a person or a group of people means to take actions to cause fighting to stop.
A "peacemaker" is someone who does and says things to influence people to live at peace with each other.
To be "at peace" with other people means being in a state of not fighting against those people.
A good or right relationship between God and people happens when God saves people from their sin. This is called having "peace with God."
The greeting "grace and peace" was used by the apostles in their letters to their fellow believers as a blessing.
The term "peace" can also refer to being in a good relationship with other people or with God.
A person who is "peaceable" acts in a way that enables him to live in peace with other people. He acts "peaceably."
To "quiet" someone is to get them to be at peace. To quiet a quarrel is to get the people to stop quarreling and be at peace with each other.

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 05:1-3
Acts 07:26
Colossians 01:18-20
Colossians 03:15
Galatians 05:23
Luke 07:50
Luke 12:51
Mark 04:39
Matthew 05:09
Matthew 10:13

Word Data:

Strong's: H5117, H7961, H7962, H7965, H7999, H8001, H8002, H8003, H8252, H8535, G269, G1514, G1515, G1516, G1517, G1518, G2272

Forms Found in the English ULB:

peace, peaceable, peaceably, peaceful, peacefully, peacemakers, quiet, quiets

perfect

Related Ideas:

perfecter, perfection, perfectly

Definition:

The term "perfect" describes something that has no flaw. To "perfect" something means to work at it until it is excellent and without flaws.

Only God and what he does is absolutely perfect.
When Christians study the Bible and obey it, they become perfect and mature because they become more like Christ in their character.
Being perfect and mature means that a Christian is obedient; it does not mean that he is sinless.
The term "perfect" also has the meaning of being "complete" or "whole."

Translation Suggestions:

The term "perfect" could be translated as "without flaw" or "without error" or "flawless" or "without fault" or "not having any faults."
The term "perfectly" could be translated "completely" or "fully."

Bible References:

Hebrews 12:02
James 03:02
Matthew 05:46-48
Psalms 019:7-8

Word Data:

Strong's: H3615, H3632, H3634, H4359, H4390, H8003, H8503, H8535, H8537, H8549, H8552, G2005, G2038, G2675, G2676, G3647, G4135, G4137, G5046, G5047, G5048, G5050, G5055

Forms Found in the English ULB:

perfect, perfected, perfecter, perfection, perfectly

perish

Related Ideas:

imperishable, perishable

Definition:

The term "perish" means to die or be destroyed, usually as the result of violence or other disaster.

The word "perish" can also be a metaphor for being punished in hell either presently or in the future.
Something that is "imperishable" will never perish.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, ways to translate this term could include "die" or "be destroyed" or "be punished in hell" or "will be punished in hell."
When perish is a metaphor, make sure that the translation of "perish" does not only mean "cease to exist."

(See also: death, eternity)

Bible References:

1 Peter 01:23
2 Corinthians 02:16-17
2 Thessalonians 02:10
Jeremiah 18:18
Psalms 049:18-20
Zechariah 09:5-7
Zechariah 13:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H6, H7, H622, H1197, H1478, H1820, H1826, H5486, H5595, H7921, H8045, G599, G622, G684, G853, G5356

Forms Found in the English ULB:

imperishable, perish, perishable, perished, perishes, perishing

perverse

Related Ideas:

crooked, perversion, perversity, pervert, twisted

Definition:

The terms "perverse," "crooked," and "twisted" are used to describe a person or action that is morally bad. The term "perversely" means "in a perverse manner." To "pervert" something means to twist it or turn it away from what is right or good. "Perversity" is perverse thoughts, words, and actions.

Someone or something that is perverse has deviated from what is good and right.
In the Bible, the Israelites acted perversely when they disobeyed God. They often did this by worshiping false gods.
Any action which is against God's standards or behavior is considered perverse.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "perverse" could include "morally twisted" or "immoral" or "turning away from God's straight path," depending on the context.
"Perverse speech" could be translated as "speaking in an evil way" or "deceitful talk" or "immoral way of talking."
"Perverse people" could be described as "immoral people" or "people who are morally deviant" or "people who continually disobey God."
The phrase "acting perversely" could be translated as "behaving in an evil way" or "doing things against God's commands" or "living in a way that rejects God's teachings."
The term "pervert" could also be translated as "cause to be corrupt" or "turn into something evil."

(See also: corrupt, deceive, disobey, evil, turn)

Bible References:

1 Kings 08:47
1 Samuel 20:30
Job 33:27-28
Luke 23:02
Psalms 101:4-6

Word Data:

Strong's: H1942, H2015, H2555, H3868, H4297, H5186, H5557, H5558, H5753, H5766, H5773, H5791, H6140, H6141, H8138, H8397, H8419, G1294, G1612, G3344, G4646

Forms Found in the English ULB:

crooked, crooked ways, perverse, perverse words, perversely, perversion, perversions, perversities, perversity, pervert, perverted, perverting, perverts, twisted

plead

Related Ideas:

appeal, ask earnestly, humble request, plea

Definitions:

The terms "plead" and "pleading" refer to urgently asking someone to do something. A "plea" is an urgent request.

Pleading often implies that the person feels in very great need or strongly desires help.
People can plead or make an urgent appeal to God for mercy or to ask him to grant something, either for themselves or someone else.
Make sure it is clear in the context that this term does not refer to begging for money.
The word translated "humble request" refers specifically to a humble request for favor or mercy.
To "plead someone's cause" is to testify in court before a judge that the judge should rule in favor of the person whose cause it is.
A "legal plea" or "cause" is what someone who is trying to get justice tells a judge in a court trial.
An "earnest appeal" is a serious, humble request.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "plead" could also be translated as "beg" or "implore" or "urgently ask."
The term "plea" could also be translated as "urgent request" or "strong urging."

Bible References:

2 Corinthians 08:3-5
Judges 06:31
Luke 04:39
Proverbs 18:17

Word Data:

Strong's: H1777, H2603, H3198, H4941, H6279, H6293, H6664, H6419, H7378, H7379, H7775, H8199, H8467, H8469, G1162, G1189, G1793, G2065, G3870, G3874

Forms Found in the English ULB:

appeal, asked ... earnestly, cause, earnest appeal, earnest appeals, earnestly appeal, earnestly appealed, humble request, humble requests, legal plea, moved by ... plea, plea, plea for favor, plead, plead ... cause, pleaded, pleading, pleadings, pleads, pleas

power

Related Ideas:

ability, able, mastered, can, capable, could, impossible, incapable, powerful, won, unable

Definition:

The term "power" refers to the ability to do things or make things happen, often using great strength. "Powers" refers to people or spirits who have great ability to cause things to happen.

The "power of God" refers to God's ability to do everything, especially things that are not possible for people to do.
God has complete power over everything that he has created.
God gives his people power to do what he wants, so that when they heal people or do other miracles, they do this by the power of God.
Because Jesus and the Holy Spirit are also God, they have this same power.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the term "power" could also be translated as "ability" or "strength" or "energy" or "ability to do miracles" or "control."
Possible ways to translate the term "powers" could include "powerful beings" or "controlling spirits" or "those who control others."
An expression like "save us from the power of our enemies" could be translated as "save us from being oppressed by our enemies" or "rescue us from being controlled by our enemies." In this case, "power" has the meaning of using one's strength to control and oppress others.

(See also: Holy Spirit, Jesus, miracle)

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 01:05
Colossians 01:11-12
Genesis 31:29
Jeremiah 18:21
Jude 01:25
Judges 02:18
Luke 01:17
Luke 04:14
Matthew 26:64
Philippians 03:21
Psalm 080:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H410, H1368, H1369, H1370, H2220, H2393, H2428, H2632, H3027, H3201, H3581, H4475, H4910, H5794, H5797, H5807, H6109, H6184, H7980, H7981, H7983, H7989, H8592, H8633, G1410, G1411, G1415, G1743, G1754, G1832, G1849, G1850, G2159, G2478, G2479, G2480, G2904, G3168

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ability, able, am ... able, are ... able, are ... possible, be ... unable, be able, be mastered, can, cannot, capable, could, could not, impossible, incapable, is ... able, may ... be able, miraculous powers, possible, power, powerful, powerfully, powers, was ... able, were ... able, will ... be able, won

pray

Related Ideas:

prayer

Definition:

The terms "pray" and "prayer" refer to talking with God. These terms are used to refer to people trying to talk to a false god.

People can pray silently, talking to God with their thoughts, or they can pray aloud, speaking to God with their voice. Sometimes prayers are written down, such as when David wrote his prayers in the Book of Psalms.
Prayer can include asking God for mercy, for help with a problem, and for wisdom in making decisions.
Often people ask God to heal people who are sick or who need his help in other ways.
People also thank and praise God when they are praying to him.
Praying includes confessing our sins to God and asking him to forgive us.
Talking to God is sometimes called "communing" with him as our spirit communicates with his spirit, sharing our emotions and enjoying his presence.
This term could be translated as "talking to God" or "communicating with God." The translation of this term should be able to include praying that is silent.

(See also: god, forgive, praise)

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 03:09
Acts 08:24
Acts 14:26
Colossians 04:04
John 17:09
Luke 11:1
Matthew 05:43-45
Matthew 14:22-24

Word Data:

Strong's: H577, H1156, H2470, H3908, H6279, H6293, H6419, H6739, H7592, H7879, H8034, H8605, G154, G1162, G1189, G1783, G2065, G2171, G2172, G3870, G4335, G4336

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heard ... prayer, pray, prayed, prayer, prayers, praying, prays, urgently pray

pray

Related Ideas:

prayer

Definition:

The terms "pray" and "prayer" refer to talking with God. These terms are used to refer to people trying to talk to a false god.

People can pray silently, talking to God with their thoughts, or they can pray aloud, speaking to God with their voice. Sometimes prayers are written down, such as when David wrote his prayers in the Book of Psalms.
Prayer can include asking God for mercy, for help with a problem, and for wisdom in making decisions.
Often people ask God to heal people who are sick or who need his help in other ways.
People also thank and praise God when they are praying to him.
Praying includes confessing our sins to God and asking him to forgive us.
Talking to God is sometimes called "communing" with him as our spirit communicates with his spirit, sharing our emotions and enjoying his presence.
This term could be translated as "talking to God" or "communicating with God." The translation of this term should be able to include praying that is silent.

(See also: god, forgive, praise)

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 03:09
Acts 08:24
Acts 14:26
Colossians 04:04
John 17:09
Luke 11:1
Matthew 05:43-45
Matthew 14:22-24

Word Data:

Strong's: H577, H1156, H2470, H3908, H6279, H6293, H6419, H6739, H7592, H7879, H8034, H8605, G154, G1162, G1189, G1783, G2065, G2171, G2172, G3870, G4335, G4336

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heard ... prayer, pray, prayed, prayer, prayers, praying, prays, urgently pray

pray

Related Ideas:

prayer

Definition:

The terms "pray" and "prayer" refer to talking with God. These terms are used to refer to people trying to talk to a false god.

People can pray silently, talking to God with their thoughts, or they can pray aloud, speaking to God with their voice. Sometimes prayers are written down, such as when David wrote his prayers in the Book of Psalms.
Prayer can include asking God for mercy, for help with a problem, and for wisdom in making decisions.
Often people ask God to heal people who are sick or who need his help in other ways.
People also thank and praise God when they are praying to him.
Praying includes confessing our sins to God and asking him to forgive us.
Talking to God is sometimes called "communing" with him as our spirit communicates with his spirit, sharing our emotions and enjoying his presence.
This term could be translated as "talking to God" or "communicating with God." The translation of this term should be able to include praying that is silent.

(See also: god, forgive, praise)

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 03:09
Acts 08:24
Acts 14:26
Colossians 04:04
John 17:09
Luke 11:1
Matthew 05:43-45
Matthew 14:22-24

Word Data:

Strong's: H577, H1156, H2470, H3908, H6279, H6293, H6419, H6739, H7592, H7879, H8034, H8605, G154, G1162, G1189, G1783, G2065, G2171, G2172, G3870, G4335, G4336

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heard ... prayer, pray, prayed, prayer, prayers, praying, prays, urgently pray

profit

Related Ideas:

profitable, unprofitable

Definition:

In general, the terms "profit" and "profitable" refer to gaining something good through doing certain actions or behaviors.

Something is "profitable" to someone if it brings them good things or if it helps them bring about good things for other people.

More specifically, the term "profit" often refers to money that is gained from doing business. A business is "profitable" if it gains more money than it spends.
Actions are profitable if they bring about good things for people.
2 Timothy 3:16 says that all Scripture is "profitable" for correcting and training people in righteousness. This means that the Bible's teachings are helpful and useful for teaching people to live according to God's will.

The term "unprofitable" means to not be useful.

It literally means to not profit anything or to not help someone gain anything.
Something that is unprofitable is not worth doing because it does not give any benefit.
This could be translated as "useless" or "worthless" or "not useful" or "unworthy" or "not beneficial" or "giving no benefit."

To "take advantage of" someone is to make extra profit from him because he is weak and unable to demand greater return.

(See also: worthy)

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the term "profit" could also be translated as "benefit" or "help" or "gain."
The term "profitable" could be translated as "useful" or "beneficial" or "helpful."
To "profit from" something could be translated as "benefit from" or "gain money from" or "receive help from."
In the context of a business, "profit" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "money gained" or "surplus of money" or "extra money."

Bible References:

Job 15:03
Proverbs 10:16
Jeremiah 02:08
Ezekiel 18:12-13
John 06:63
Mark 08:36
Matthew 16:26
2 Peter 02:1-3

Word Data:

Strong's: H1214, H3148, H3276, H3504, H4195, H4768, H5532, H7939, H7965, G147, G512, G890, G1281, G2108, G2585, G2770, G2771, G3408, G3685, G4122, G4297, G4851, G5622, G5623

Forms Found in the English ULB:

profit, profitable, profits, treated ... violently for profit, unprofitable

promise

Related Ideas:

binding promise

Definition:

A promise is a pledge to do a certain thing. When someone promises something, it means he is committing to do something.

The Bible records many promises that God has made for his people.
Promises are an important part of formal agreements such as covenants.
A promise is often accompanied by an oath to confirm that it will be done.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "promise" could be translated as "commitment" or "assurance" or "guarantee."
To "promise to do something" could be translated as "assure someone that you will do something" or "commit to doing something."

(See also: covenant, oath, vow)

Bible References:

Galatians 03:15-16
Genesis 25:31-34
Hebrews 11:09
James 01:12
Numbers 30:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H530, H562, H632, H1696, H2778, H3709, G1860, G1861, G1862, G3670, G4279

Forms Found in the English ULB:

makes binding promises, promise, promised, promises

prophet

Related Ideas:

prophecy, prophesy, prophetic, seer

Definition:

A "prophet" is a man who speaks God's messages to people. A woman who does this is called a "prophetess."

Often prophets warned people to turn away from their sins and obey God.
A "prophecy" is the message that the prophet speaks. To "prophesy" means to speak God's messages.
Often the message of a prophecy was about something that would happen in the future.
Many prophecies in the Old Testament have already been fulfilled.
In the Bible the collection of books written by prophets are sometimes referred to as "the prophets."
For example the phrase, "the law and the prophets" is a way of referring to all the Hebrew scriptures, which are also known as the "Old Testament."
An older term for a prophet was "seer" or "someone who sees."
Sometimes the term "seer" refers to a false prophet or to someone who practices divination.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "prophet" could be translated as "God's spokesman" or "man who speaks for God" or "man who speaks God's messages."
A "seer" could be translated as, "person who sees visions" or "man who sees the future from God."
The term "prophetess" could be translated as, "spokeswoman for God" or "woman who speaks for God" or "woman who speaks God's messages."
Ways to translate "prophecy" could include, "message from God" or "prophet message."
The term "prophesy" could be translated as "speak words from God" or "tell God's message."
The figurative expression, "law and the prophets" could also be translated as, "the books of the law and of the prophets" or "everything written about God and his people, including God's laws and what his prophets preached."
When referring to a prophet (or seer) of a false god, it may be necessary to translate this as "false prophet (seer)" or "prophet (seer) of a false god" or "prophet of Baal," for example.

(See also: Baal, divination, god, false prophet, fulfill, law of Moses, vision)

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 02:14-16
Acts 03:25
John 01:43-45
Malachi 04:4-6
Matthew 01:23
Matthew 02:18
Matthew 05:17
Psalm 051:01

Word Data:

Strong's: H2372, H2374, H4853, H5012, H5013, H5016, H5017, H5029, H5030, H5031, H5046, H5197, H7200, H7203, G2495, G4394, G4395, G4396, G4397, G4398, G5578

Forms Found in the English ULB:

give ... prophecies, prophecies, prophecy, prophesied, prophesies, prophesy, prophesying, prophet, prophet's, prophetess, prophetic, prophets, seer, seer's, seers, seers'

punish

Related Ideas:

bring down judgment, deal with, inflict punishment, judgment, punishment, unpunished

Definition:

The term "punish" means to cause someone to suffer a negative consequence for doing something wrong. The term "punishment" refers to the negative consequence that is given as a result of that wrong behavior.

Often punishment is intended to motivate a person to stop sinning.
God punished the Israelites when they disobeyed him, especially when they worshiped false gods. Because of their sin, God allowed their enemies to attack and capture them.
God is righteous and just, so he has to punish sin. Every human being has sinned against God and deserves punishment.
Jesus was punished for all the evil things that every person has ever done. He received each person's punishment on himself even though he did nothing wrong and did not deserve that punishment.
The expression "leave someone unpunished" means to decide not to punish someone for their wrongdoing.
The expression "go unpunished" means to sin and not be punished for it. God often allows people to go unpunished as he waits for them to repent.
To "bring down judgment" on someone is to punish him after declaring him guilty of wrongful behavior.
Sometimes "judgment" refers to punishment.
Sometimes "deal with" means punish.

(See also: justice, repent, righteous, sin)

Bible References:

1 John 04:18
2 Thessalonians 01:09
Acts 04:21
Acts 07:59-60
Genesis 04:15
Luke 23:16
Matthew 25:46

Word Data:

Strong's: H2403, H3027, H3256, H4148, H4941, H5221, H5352, H5414, H5771, H6031, H6213, H6485, H6486, H7451, H7561, H7999, H8011, H8199, G1349, G1556, G1557, G2849, G2851, G2917, G2920, G3811, G5097

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bring down judgment, go ... unpunished, inflicted punishment, inflicting punishment, judgment, leave ... unpunished, punish, punished, punishes, punishing, punishment, unpunished

punish

Related Ideas:

bring down judgment, deal with, inflict punishment, judgment, punishment, unpunished

Definition:

Often punishment is intended to motivate a person to stop sinning.
God punished the Israelites when they disobeyed him, especially when they worshiped false gods. Because of their sin, God allowed their enemies to attack and capture them.
God is righteous and just, so he has to punish sin. Every human being has sinned against God and deserves punishment.
Jesus was punished for all the evil things that every person has ever done. He received each person's punishment on himself even though he did nothing wrong and did not deserve that punishment.
The expression "leave someone unpunished" means to decide not to punish someone for their wrongdoing.
The expression "go unpunished" means to sin and not be punished for it. God often allows people to go unpunished as he waits for them to repent.
To "bring down judgment" on someone is to punish him after declaring him guilty of wrongful behavior.
Sometimes "judgment" refers to punishment.
Sometimes "deal with" means punish.

(See also: justice, repent, righteous, sin)

Bible References:

1 John 04:18
2 Thessalonians 01:09
Acts 04:21
Acts 07:59-60
Genesis 04:15
Luke 23:16
Matthew 25:46

Word Data:

Strong's: H2403, H3027, H3256, H4148, H4941, H5221, H5352, H5414, H5771, H6031, H6213, H6485, H6486, H7451, H7561, H7999, H8011, H8199, G1349, G1556, G1557, G2849, G2851, G2917, G2920, G3811, G5097

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bring down judgment, go ... unpunished, inflicted punishment, inflicting punishment, judgment, leave ... unpunished, punish, punished, punishes, punishing, punishment, unpunished

pure

Related Ideas:

impure, purge, purification, purify, purity, refine

Definition:

To be "pure" means to have no flaw or to have nothing mixed in that is not supposed to be there. To purify something is to cleanse it and remove anything that contaminates or pollutes it.

In regard to Old Testament laws, "purify" and "purification" refer mainly to the cleansing from things that make an object or a person ritually unclean, such as disease, body fluids, or childbirth.
The Old Testament also had laws telling people how to be purified from sin, usually by the sacrifice of an animal. This was only temporary and the sacrifices had to be repeated over and over again.
In the New Testament, to be purified often refers to being cleansed from sin.
The only way that people can be completely and permanently purified from sin is through repenting and receiving God's forgiveness, through trusting in Jesus and his sacrifice.
Something that is "impure" is not pure.
To "refine" is to purify metal. This is done by heating the metal over a fire until it melts and removing what should not be there.
Someone who has pure motives is somone who only wants to do what is good.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "purify" could be translated as "make pure" or "cleanse" or "cleanse from all contamination" or "get rid of all sin."
A phrase such as "when the time for their purification was over" could be translated as "when they had purified themselves by waiting the required number of days."
The phrase "provided purification for sins" could be translated as "provided a way for people to be completely cleansed from their sin."
Other ways to translate "purification" could include "cleansing" or "spiritual washing" or "becoming ritually clean."
Other ways to translate "pure motives" or "purity of motives" is "sincere" or "sincerity."

(See also: atonement, clean, spirit)

Bible References:

1 Timothy 01:05
Exodus 31:6-9
Hebrews 09:13-15
James 04:08
Luke 02:22
Revelation 14:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H571, H1249, H1305, H2134, H2135, H2141, H2212, H2398, H2403, H2889, H2890, H2891, H2892, H2893, H3795, H2896, H3800, H5079, H5343, H5462, H6337, H6884, H6942, G48, G49, G53, G54, G169, G185, G505, G1103, G1506, G2511, G2512, G2513

Forms Found in the English ULB:

impure, impure thing, impurities, impurity, pure, purer, purge, purification, purified, purifies, purify, purity, refine, refined, refiner, refiner's, refining

rebel

Related Ideas:

rebellion, rebellious, rebelliousness

Definition:

The term "rebel" means to refuse to submit to someone's authority. A "rebellious" person often disobeys and does evil things. This kind of person is called "a rebel."

A person is rebelling when he does something the authorities over him have told him not to do.
A person can also rebel by refusing to do what the authorities have commanded him to do.
Sometimes people rebel against their government or leader who is ruling over them.
The term to "rebel" could also be translated as to "disobey" or to "revolt," depending on the context.
"Rebellious" could also be translated as "continually disobedient" or "refusing to obey."
The term "rebellion" means "refusal to obey" or "disobedience" or "law-breaking."
The phrase "the rebellion" or "a rebellion" can also refer to an organized group of people who publicly rebel against ruling authorities by breaking the law and attacking leaders and other people. Often they try to get other people to join them in rebelling.

(See also: authority, governor)

Bible References:

1 Kings 12:18-19
1 Samuel 12:14
1 Timothy 01:9-11
2 Chronicles 10:17-19
Acts 21:38
Luke 23:19

Word Data:

Strong's: H4754, H4775, H4776, H4777, H4779, H4780, H4784, H4805, H5327, H5627, H5637, H6586, H6588, H7300, H7846, G436, G485, G498, G506, G3893, G4955

Forms Found in the English ULB:

rebel, rebelled, rebelling, rebellion, rebellious, rebelliousness, rebels, revolt

rebuke

Related Ideas:

correct, correction

Definition:

To rebuke is to give someone a stern verbal correction, often in order to help that person turn away from sin. Such a correction is a rebuke.

A rebuke is typically given to prevent those who committed a wrong from further involving themselves in sin.
The book of Proverbs instructs parents to rebuke their children when they are disobedient.
The New Testament commands Christians to rebuke other believers when they are clearly disobeying God.

Translation Suggestions:

This could be translated by "sternly correct" or "admonish."
The phrase "a rebuke" could be translated by "a stern correction" or "a strong criticism."
"Without rebuke" could be translated as "without admonishing" or "without criticism."

(See also admonish, disobey)

Bible References:

Mark 01:23-26
Mark 16:14
Matthew 08:26-27
Matthew 17:17-18

Word Data:

Strong's: H1605, H1606, H2778, H2781, H3198, H3256, H4045, H4148, H7626, H8156, H8433, G1649, G1651, G1969, G2008, G3679

Forms Found in the English ULB:

correct, corrected, correction, corrections, corrects, give correction, rebuke, rebuked, rebukes

receive

Related Ideas:

abstain, receiver

Definition:

The term "receive" generally means to get or accept something that is given, offered, or presented.

To "receive" can also mean to suffer or experience something, as in "he received punishment for what he did."
There is also a special sense in which we can "receive" a person. For example, to "receive" guests or visitors means to welcome them and treat them with honor in order to build a relationship with them.
To "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" means we are given the Holy Spirit and welcome him to work in and through our lives.
To "receive Jesus" means to accept God's offer of salvation through Jesus Christ.
When a blind person "receives his sight" means that God has healed him and enabled him to see.
The word "abstain" means to refuse to take or receive or have something.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "receive" could be translated as "accept" or "welcome" or "experience" or "be given."
The expression "you will receive power" could be translated as "you will be given power" or "God will give you power" or "power will be given to you (by God)" or "God will cause the Holy Spirit to work powerfully in you."
The phrase "received his sight" could be translated as "was able to see" or "became able to see again."

(See also: Holy Spirit, Jesus, lord, save)

Bible References:

1 John 05:09
1 Thessalonians 01:06
1 Thessalonians 04:01
Acts 08:15
Jeremiah 32:33
Luke 09:05
Malachi 03:10-12
Psalms 049:14-15

Word Data:

Strong's: H3557, H3925, H3947, H5144, H6901, H6902, H8254, G308, G324, G353, G354, G568, G588, G618, G1183, G1184, G1209, G1523, G1653, G1926, G2865, G2983, G3028, G3335, G3336, G3549, G3858, G3880, G4047, G4327, G4355, G4356, G4687, G5264, G5562

Forms Found in the English ULB:

abstain, receive, receive back, received, received ... in full, receiver, receives, receiving

receive

Related Ideas:

abstain, receiver

Definition:

The term "receive" generally means to get or accept something that is given, offered, or presented.

To "receive" can also mean to suffer or experience something, as in "he received punishment for what he did."
There is also a special sense in which we can "receive" a person. For example, to "receive" guests or visitors means to welcome them and treat them with honor in order to build a relationship with them.
To "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" means we are given the Holy Spirit and welcome him to work in and through our lives.
To "receive Jesus" means to accept God's offer of salvation through Jesus Christ.
When a blind person "receives his sight" means that God has healed him and enabled him to see.
The word "abstain" means to refuse to take or receive or have something.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "receive" could be translated as "accept" or "welcome" or "experience" or "be given."
The expression "you will receive power" could be translated as "you will be given power" or "God will give you power" or "power will be given to you (by God)" or "God will cause the Holy Spirit to work powerfully in you."
The phrase "received his sight" could be translated as "was able to see" or "became able to see again."

(See also: Holy Spirit, Jesus, lord, save)

Bible References:

1 John 05:09
1 Thessalonians 01:06
1 Thessalonians 04:01
Acts 08:15
Jeremiah 32:33
Luke 09:05
Malachi 03:10-12
Psalms 049:14-15

Word Data:

Strong's: H3557, H3925, H3947, H5144, H6901, H6902, H8254, G308, G324, G353, G354, G568, G588, G618, G1183, G1184, G1209, G1523, G1653, G1926, G2865, G2983, G3028, G3335, G3336, G3549, G3858, G3880, G4047, G4327, G4355, G4356, G4687, G5264, G5562

Forms Found in the English ULB:

abstain, receive, receive back, received, received ... in full, receiver, receives, receiving

receive

Related Ideas:

abstain, receiver

Definition:

The term "receive" generally means to get or accept something that is given, offered, or presented.

To "receive" can also mean to suffer or experience something, as in "he received punishment for what he did."
There is also a special sense in which we can "receive" a person. For example, to "receive" guests or visitors means to welcome them and treat them with honor in order to build a relationship with them.
To "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" means we are given the Holy Spirit and welcome him to work in and through our lives.
To "receive Jesus" means to accept God's offer of salvation through Jesus Christ.
When a blind person "receives his sight" means that God has healed him and enabled him to see.
The word "abstain" means to refuse to take or receive or have something.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "receive" could be translated as "accept" or "welcome" or "experience" or "be given."
The expression "you will receive power" could be translated as "you will be given power" or "God will give you power" or "power will be given to you (by God)" or "God will cause the Holy Spirit to work powerfully in you."
The phrase "received his sight" could be translated as "was able to see" or "became able to see again."

(See also: Holy Spirit, Jesus, lord, save)

Bible References:

1 John 05:09
1 Thessalonians 01:06
1 Thessalonians 04:01
Acts 08:15
Jeremiah 32:33
Luke 09:05
Malachi 03:10-12
Psalms 049:14-15

Word Data:

Strong's: H3557, H3925, H3947, H5144, H6901, H6902, H8254, G308, G324, G353, G354, G568, G588, G618, G1183, G1184, G1209, G1523, G1653, G1926, G2865, G2983, G3028, G3335, G3336, G3549, G3858, G3880, G4047, G4327, G4355, G4356, G4687, G5264, G5562

Forms Found in the English ULB:

abstain, receive, receive back, received, received ... in full, receiver, receives, receiving

reject

Related Ideas:

deny, despise, refuse, rejection, scorn, set aside, stay away from, throw away

Definition:

To "reject" someone or something means to refuse to accept that person or thing. The term "reject" can also mean to "refuse to believe in" something. To reject God or his laws means to refuse to obey him.

To "deny" what someone says is to say that it is not true.
To "deny" someone is to say that one does not associate with that person.
To "despise" or "scorn" people or things is to have no respect for them.
An "object of scorn" is someone or something that people have no respect for.

Translation Suggestions

Depending on the context, the term "reject" could also be translated by "not accept" or "stop helping" or "refuse to obey" or "stop obeying."
In some languages the idea of "reject" is expressed as "push away" or "set aside" or "stay away from."
In the expression "stone that the builders rejected," the term "rejected" could be translated as "refused to use" or "did not accept" or "threw away" or "got rid of as worthless."
In the context of people who rejected God's commandments, rejected could be translated as "refused to obey" his commands or "stubbornly chose to not accept" God's laws.

(See also: command, disobey, obey, stiff-necked)

Bible References:

Galatians 04:12-14
Hosea 04:6-7
Isaiah 41:09
John 12:48-50
Mark 07:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H936, H937, H947, H959, H2151, H2186, H2778, H2781, H3988, H5006, H5034, H5186, H5203, H5307, H5541, H5800, G114, G483, G550, G579, G580, G581, G593, G683, G720, G1609, G1848, G3868

Forms Found in the English ULB:

denied, denies, deny, despise, despised, despises, refuse, refused, reject, rejected, rejecting, rejection, rejects, scorn, scorns, set ... aside, sets ... aside, stay away from, throw away, tossed aside

reveal

Related Ideas:

revelation

Definition:

The term "reveal" means to cause something to be known. A "revelation" is something that has been made known.

God has revealed himself through everything he has created and through his communication with people by spoken and written messages.
God also reveals himself through dreams or visions.
When Paul said that he received the gospel by "revelation from Jesus Christ," he means that Jesus himself explained the gospel to him.
In the New Testament book "Revelation," God revealed events that will happen in the end times. He revealed them to the apostle John through visions.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways to translate "reveal" could include "make known" or "disclose" or "show clearly."
Depending on the context, possible ways to translate "revelation" could be "communication from God" or "things that God has revealed" or "teachings about God." It is best to keep the meaning of "reveal" in the translation.
The phrase "where there is no revelation" could be translated as "when God is not revealing himself to people" or "when God is not speaking to people" or "among people whom God has not communicating."

(See also: dream, vision)

Bible References:

Daniel 11:1-2
Ephesians 03:05
Galatians 01:12
Lamentations 02:13-14
Matthew 10:26
Philippians 03:15
Revelation 01:01

Word Data:

Strong's: H1540, H1541, H1540, H5046, H7200, G601, G602, G1213, G1453, G3377, G5318, G5319, G5537

Forms Found in the English ULB:

reveal, revealed, revealing, reveals, revelation, revelations

reward

Related Ideas:

pay, penalty, prize, recompense, retribution, rewarder, wage

Definition:

The term "reward" refers to what a person receives or earns because of something he has done, either good or bad. To "reward" someone is to give someone something he deserves.

A reward can be a good thing that a person receives because he has done something well or because he has obeyed God.
Sometimes a reward can refer to bad things that may result from bad behavior, such as "the reward of the wicked." This is either punishment or other painful things that happen to people because of their sinful actions.
"Payment" and "wages" refer to what a person earns for working. These ideas can also be used to refer to a reward for doing good or to punishment for doing bad.
A "prize" is a reward that someone receives for winning a contest.
A "penalty" is a punishment for breaking the law.
"Recompense" can be either good or bad. Good recompense is for good deeds, and bad recompense is for bad deeds.
"Retribution" is punishment for doing wrong.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, the term "reward" could be translated as "payment" or "something that is deserved" or "punishment."
To "reward" someone could be translated by to "repay" or to "punish" or to "give what is deserved."

(See also: punish)

Bible References:

Deuteronomy 32:06
Isaiah 40:10
Luke 06:35
Mark 09:40-41
Matthew 05:11-12
Matthew 06:3-4
Psalms 127:3-5
Revelation 11:18

Word Data:

Strong's: H314, H319, H814, H866, H868, H1576, H1578, H1580, H2506, H3519, H4909, H4991, H5023, H6118, H6468, H6529, H7936, H7938, H7939, H7966, H7999, H8254, G469, G514, G591, G2603, G3405, G3406, G3408, G5485

Forms Found in the English ULB:

pay, pay ... back, pays ... back, payment, penalty, prize, recompense, repay, repayment, retribution, reward, rewarded, rewarder, rewarding, rewards, wage, wages

righteous

Related Ideas:

right, rightly, righteousness, rightful, upright

Definition:

The term "righteousness" refers to God's absolute goodness, justice, faithfulness, and love. Having these qualities makes God "righteous." Because God is righteous, he must condemn sin.

These terms are also often used to describe a person who obeys God and is morally good. However, because all people have sinned, no one except God is completely righteous.
Examples of people the Bible who were called "righteous" include Noah, Job, Abraham, Zachariah, and Elisabeth.
When people trust in Jesus to save them, God cleanses them from their sins and declares them to be righteous because of Jesus' righteousness.

The term "unrighteous" means to be sinful and morally corrupt. "Unrighteousness" can refer to sin or the condition of being sinful.

These terms especially refer to living in a way that disobeys God's teachings and commands.
Unrighteous people are immoral in their thoughts and actions.
Sometimes "the unrighteous" refers specifically to people who do not believe in Jesus.
"Unrighteousness" can be an abstract noun that refers to words or actions that are unrighteous.

The terms "upright" and "uprightness" refer to acting in a way that follows God's laws.

The meaning of these words includes the idea of standing up straight and looking directly ahead.
A person who is "upright" is someone who obeys God's rules and does not do things that are against his will.
Terms such as "integrity" and "righteous" have similar meanings and are sometimes used in parallelism constructions, such as "integrity and uprightness."

Translation Suggestions:

When it describes God, the term "righteous" could be translated as "perfectly good and just" or "always acting rightly."
God's "righteousness" could also be translated as "perfect faithfulness and goodness."
When it describes people who are obedient to God, the term "righteous" could also be translated as "morally good" or "just" or "living a God-pleasing life."
The phrase "the righteous" could also be translated as "righteous people" or "God-fearing people."
Depending on the context, "righteousness" could also be translated with a word or phrase that means "goodness" or "being perfect before God" or "acting in a right way by obeying God" or "doing perfectly good
Sometimes "the righteous" was used figuratively and referred to "people who think they are good" or "people who seem to be righteous."
The term "unrighteous" could simply be translated as "not righteous."
Depending on the context, other ways to translate this could include "wicked" or "immoral" or "people who rebel against God" or "sinful."
The phrase "the unrighteous" could be translated as "unrighteous people."
The term "unrighteousness" could be translated as "sin" or "evil thoughts and actions" or "wickedness."
If possible, it is best to translate this in a way that shows its relationship to "righteous, righteousness."
Ways to translate "upright" could include "acting rightly" or "one who acts rightly" or "following God's laws" or "obedient to God" or "behaving in a way that is right."
The term "uprightness" could be translated as "moral purity" or "good moral conduct" or "rightness."
The phrase "the upright" could be translated as "people who are upright" or "upright people."

(See also: evil, faithful, good, holy, integrity, justice, law, law of Moses, obey, pure, sin, lawful)

Bible References:

Deuteronomy 19:16
Job 01:08
Psalms 037:30
Psalms 049:14
Psalms 107:42
Ecclesiastes 12:10-11
Isaiah 48:1-2
Ezekiel 33:13
Malachi 02:06
Matthew 06:01
Acts 03:13-14
Romans 01:29-31
1 Corinthians 06:09
Galatians 03:07
Colossians 03:25
2 Thessalonians 02:10
2 Timothy 03:16
1 Peter 03:18-20
1 John 01:09
1 John 05:16-17

Word Data:

Strong's: H205, H2555, H3072, H3474, H3476, H3477, H3483, H4334, H4339, H5228, H5229, H5324, H5765, H5766, H5767, H5977, H6662, H6663, H6664, H6665, H6666, H8535, H8537, H8549, H8552, G93, G94, G458, G824, G1341, G1342, G1343, G1344, G1345, G1346, G2118

Forms Found in the English ULB:

acts rightly, do right, does what is right, in the right, made ... appear ... righteous, right treatment, righteous, righteously, righteousness, rightful, that are right, that is right, unrighteous, unrighteously, unrighteousness, upright, uprightly, uprightness, what is ... right, what was right

sacrifice

Related Ideas:

offering

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "sacrifice" and "offering" refer to special gifts given to God as an act of worshiping him. People also offered sacrifices to false gods.

The word "offering" generally refers to anything that is offered or given. The term "sacrifice" refers to something that is given or done at great cost to the giver.
Offerings to God were specific things that he commanded the Israelites to give in order to express devotion and obedience to him.
The names of the different offerings, such as "burnt offering" and "peace offering," indicated what kind of offering was being given.
Sacrifices to God often involved the killing of an animal.
Only the sacrifice of Jesus, God's perfect, sinless Son, can completely cleanse people from sin animal sacrifices could never do that.
The figurative expression "offer yourselves as a living sacrifice" means, "live your life in complete obedience to God, giving up everything in order to serve him."

Translation Suggestions

The term "offering" could also be translated as "a gift to God" or "something given to God" or "something valuable that is presented to God."
Depending on the context, the term "sacrifice" could also be translated as "something valuable given in worship" or "a special animal killed and presented to God."
The action to "sacrifice" could be translated as to "give up something valuable" or to "kill an animal and give it to God."
Another way to translate "present yourself as a living sacrifice" could be "as you live your life, offer yourself to God as completely as an animal is offered on an altar."

Bible References:

2 Timothy 04:06
Acts 07:42
Acts 21:25
Genesis 04:3-5
James 02:21-24
Mark 01:43-44
Mark 14:12
Matthew 05:23

Word Data:

Strong's: H801, H817, H819, H1685, H1890, H1974, H2076, H2077, H2281, H2282, H2398, H2401, H2402, H2403, H2409, H3632, H4394, H4503, H4504, H4635, H5066, H5068, H5071, H5257, H5258, H5261, H5262, H5927, H5928, H5930, H6453, H6944, H6999, H7133, H7311, H8002, H8426, H8573, H8641, G266, G334, G1049, G1435, G1494, G2378, G2380, G3646, G4376, G5485

Forms Found in the English ULB:

burn ... sacrifices, offer, offered, offering, offerings, sacrifice, sacrificed, sacrifices, sacrificing

save

Related Ideas:

make well, preserve, safe, salvation

Definition:

The term "save" refers to keeping someone from experiencing something bad or harmful. To "be safe" means to be protected from harm or danger.

In a physical sense, people can be saved or rescued from harm, danger, or death.
In a spiritual sense, if a person has been "saved," then God, through Jesus' death on the cross, has forgiven him and rescued him from being punished in hell for his sin.
People can save or rescue people from danger, but only God can save people from being punished eternally for their sins.

The term "salvation" refers to being saved or rescued from evil and danger.

In the Bible, "salvation" usually refers to the spiritual and eternal deliverance granted by God to those who repent of their sins and believe in Jesus.
The Bible also talks about God saving or delivering his people from their physical enemies.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "save" could include "deliver" or "keep from harm" or "take out of harm's way" or "keep from dying."
In the expression "whoever would save his life," the term "save" could also be translated as "preserve" or "protect."
The term "safe" could be translated as "protected from danger" or "in a place where nothing can harm."
The term "salvation" could also be translated using words related to "save" or "rescue," as in "God’s saving people (from being punished for their sins)" or "God’s rescuing his people (from their enemies)."
"God is my salvation" could be translated as "God is the one who saves me."
"You will draw water from the wells of salvation" could be translated as "You will be refreshed as with water because God is rescuing you."

(See also: cross, deliver, punish, sin, Savior)

Bible References:

Genesis 49:18
Genesis 47:25-26
Psalms 080:03
Jeremiah 16:19-21
Micah 06:3-5
Luke 02:30
Luke 08:36-37
Acts 04:12
Acts 28:28
Acts 02:21
Romans 01:16
Romans 10:10
Ephesians 06:17
Philippians 01:28
1 Timothy 01:15-17
Revelation 19:1-2

Word Data:

Strong's: H983, H2421, H2502, H3444, H3467, H3468, H4190, H4422, H4581, H4931, H5337, H5338, H5756, H6308, H6403, H7682, H7965, H8104, H8199, H8668, G803, G804, G1295, G1508, G1515, G4982, G4991, G4992, G5198

Forms Found in the English ULB:

be made well, brought safely, brought safely through, place of safety, preserve, safe, safely, safety, salvation, save, saved, saves, saving

seed

Related Words:

semen

Definition:

A seed is the part of a plant that gets planted in the ground to reproduce more of the same kind of plant. It also has several figurative meanings.

The term "seed" is used figuratively and euphemistically to refer to the tiny cells inside a man that combine with cells of a woman to cause a baby to grow inside her. A collection of these is called "semen."
Related to this, "seed" is also used to refer to a person's offspring or descendants.
This word often has a plural meaning, referring to more than one seed grain or more than one descendant.
In the parable of the farmer planting seeds, Jesus compared his seeds to the Word of God, which is planted in people's hearts in order to produce good spiritual fruit.
The apostle Paul also uses the term "seed" to refer to the Word of God.

Translation Suggestions:

For a literal seed, it is best to use the literal term for "seed" that is used in the target language for what a farmer plants in his field.
The literal term should also be used in contexts where it refers figuratively to God's Word.
For the figurative use that refers to people who are of the same family line, it may be more clear to use the word "descendant" or "descendants" instead of seed. Some languages may have a word that means "children and grandchildren."
For a man or woman's "seed," consider how the target expresses this in a way that will not offend or embarrass people.

(See also: descendant, offspring)

Bible References:

1 Kings 18:32
Genesis 01:11
Jeremiah 02:21
Matthew 13:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H2232, H2233, H3610, H6507, G2848, G4687, G4690, G4701, G4703

Forms Found in the English ULB:

seed, seeds, semen

send

Definition:

To "send" is to cause someone or something to go somewhere. To "send out" someone is to tell that person to go on an errand or a mission.

Often a person who is "sent out" has been appointed to do a specific task.
Phrases like "send rain" or "send disaster" mean to "cause rain to come" or "cause a disaster to come." This type of expression is usually used in reference to God causing these things to happen.
The term "send" is also used in expressions such as "send word" or "send a message," which means to give someone a message to tell someone else.
To "send" someone "with" something can mean to "give" that thing "to" someone else, usually moving it some distance in order for the person to receive it.
To "send someone on his way" or "help someone on his way" is to give him what he needs for his journey.
Jesus frequently used the phrase "the one who sent me" to refer to God the Father, who "sent" him to earth to redeem and save people. This could also be translated as "the one who commissioned me."

(See also: appoint, redeem)

Bible References:

Acts 07:33-34
Acts 08:14-17
John 20:21-23
Matthew 09:37-38
Matthew 10:05
Matthew 10:40
Matthew 21:1-3

Word Data:

Strong's: H1540, H1980, H2199, H2904, H3318, H3474, H4916, H4917, H5130, H5375, H5414, H5674, H6963, H7368, H7964, H7971, H7972, H7993, H8421, H8446, G782, G375, G630, G649, G652, G1026, G1544, G1599, G1821, G3333, G3343, G3936, G3992, G4311, G4341, G4369, G4842, G4882

Forms Found in the English ULB:

send, send ... away, send ... on ... way, send out, sending, sending out, sends, sends out, sent, sent ... away, sent out

servant

Related Ideas:

assistant, attendant, hired worker, maidservant, office, serve, service

Definition:

The word "servant" refers to a person who works for another person, either by choice or by force. Some servants were slaves, and the surrounding text usually makes it clear whether or not a particular servant was a slave. In Bible times, there was less of a difference between a servant and a slave than there is today. Both servants and slaves were an important part of their master's household and many were treated almost like members of the family. Sometimes a servant would choose to become a lifetime servant to his master.

A slave was a kind of servant who was the property of the person he worked for. The person who bought a slave was called his "owner" or "master." Some masters treated their slaves very cruelly, while other masters treated their slaves very well, as a servant who was a valued member of the household.
In ancient times, some people became slaves to a person they owed money to in order to pay off their debt to that person.
In the Bible, the phrase "I am your servant" was used as a sign of respect and service to a person of higher rank, such as a king. It did not mean that the person speaking was an actual servant.
In the Old Testament, God's prophets and other people who worshiped God were often referred to as his "servants."
In the New Testament, people who obeyed God through faith in Christ were often called his "servants."
Christians are also called "slaves to righteousness," which is a metaphor that compares the commitment to obey God to a slave's commitment to obey his master.

The word "serve" means to do things to help other people. It can also mean to "worship."

In the context of a person serving guests, this term means "care for" or "serve food to" or "provide food for." When Jesus told the disciples to "serve" the fish to the people, this could be translated as, "distribute" or "hand out" or "give."
To "serve God" can be translated as to "worship and obey God" or to "do the work that God has commanded."
People who teach others about God are said to serve both God and the ones they are teaching.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian Christians about how they used to "serve" the old covenant. This refers to obeying the laws of Moses. Now they "serve" the new covenant. That is, because of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, believers in Jesus are enabled by the Holy Spirit to please God and live holy lives.

The word "service" refers to the work that a servant does. It may also refer to worship.

The word "office" refers to the position or job that a servant has.

(See also: commit, enslave, household, lord, obey, righteous, covenant, law)

Bible References

Acts 04:29-31
Acts 10:7-8
Colossians 01:7-8
Colossians 03:22-25
Genesis 21:10-11
Luke 12:47-48
Mark 09:33-35
Matthew 10:24-25
Matthew 13:27-28
2 Timothy 02:3-5
Acts 06:2-4
Genesis 25:23
Luke 04:8
Luke 12:37-38
Luke 22:26-27
Mark 08:7-10
Matthew 04:10-11
Matthew 06:24

Word Data:

Strong's: H327, H519, H519, H4931, H5288, H5647, H5649, H5650, H5656, H5657, H5659, H5673, H6402, H6635, H7916, H8120, H8198, H8278, H8334, H8335, G1199, G1247, G1248, G1249, G1397, G1398, G1401, G1402, G2038, G2322, G2324, G2615, G2999, G3000, G3008, G3009, G3010, G3011, G3407, G3411, G3610, G3814, G3816, G4342, G5256, G5257

Forms Found in the English ULB:

female servant, female servants, hired servant, hired servants, hired worker, maidservants, male servant, male servants, office, offices, one who serves, servant, servant girl, servant girls, servant's, servants, servants', serve, served, serves, service, services, serving

sexual immorality

Related Ideas:

fornicate, fornication, immoral

Definition:

The term "sexual immorality" refers to sexual activity that takes place outside the marriage relationship of a man and a woman. This is against God's plan. Older English Bible versions call this "fornication."

This term can refer to any kind of sexual activity that is against God's will, including homosexual acts and pornography.
One type of sexual immorality is adultery, which is sexual activity specifically between a married person and someone who is not that person's spouse.
Another type of sexual immorality is "prostitution," which involves being paid to have sex with someone.
This term is also used figuratively to refer to Israel's unfaithfulness to God when they worshiped false gods.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "sexual immorality" could be translated as "immorality" as long as the correct meaning of the term is understood.
Other ways to translate this term could include "wrong sexual acts" or "sex outside of marriage."
This term should be translated in a different way from the term "adultery."
The translation of this term's figurative uses should retain the literal term if possible since there is a common comparison in the Bible between unfaithfulness to God and unfaithfulness in the sexual relationship.

(See also: adultery, god, prostitute, faithful)

Bible References:

Acts 15:20
Acts 21:25-26
Colossians 03:5-8
Ephesians 05:03
Genesis 38:24-26
Hosea 04:13-14
Matthew 05:31-32
Matthew 19:7-9

Word Data:

Strong's: H2181, H8457, G1608, G4202, G4203

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fornicate, fornicates, fornication, fornications, immoral, immorality, sexual immorality

shame

Related Ideas:

ashamed, shameful, shameless, unashamed

Definition:

The term "shame" refers to a painful feeling of being disgraced a person has because of something dishonorable or improper that he or someone else has done.

Something that is "shameful" is "improper" or "dishonorable."
The term "ashamed" describes how a person feels when he has done something shameful.
The phrase "put to shame" means to cause someone to feel ashamed. It might be expose their sin or by defeating them.
The prophet Isaiah said that those who make and worship idols will be put to shame.
God can bring shame to a person who does not repent by exposing that person's sin and causing him to be humiliated.
A person that is "unashamed" does not feel shame.
A person is "shameless" if he does something shameful but does not feel ashamed.
A "shameless act" is something a person should feel ashamed about doing, but he does not feel ashamed.

Sometimes the word "shame" is used figuratively to refer to a person's nakedness or private parts.

(See also: god, humble, humiliate, Isaiah, repent, sin, worship)

Bible References:

1 Peter 03:15-17
2 Kings 02:17
2 Samuel 13:13
Luke 20:11
Mark 08:38
Mark 12:4-5

Word Data:

Strong's: H937, H954, H955, H1317, H1322, H5949, H2616, H2659, H2781, H3001, H3637, H3639, H3640, H7022, H7036, H8103, G149, G152, G153, G422, G808, G818, G819, G821, G1788, G1791, G1870, G2617, G3681, G3856, G5195

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ashamed, make ... ashamed, put ... to shame, shame, shamed, shameful, shamefully, shameless, shamelessly, shames, unashamed

shame

Related Ideas:

ashamed, shameful, shameless, unashamed

Definition:

The term "shame" refers to a painful feeling of being disgraced a person has because of something dishonorable or improper that he or someone else has done.

Something that is "shameful" is "improper" or "dishonorable."
The term "ashamed" describes how a person feels when he has done something shameful.
The phrase "put to shame" means to cause someone to feel ashamed. It might be expose their sin or by defeating them.
The prophet Isaiah said that those who make and worship idols will be put to shame.
God can bring shame to a person who does not repent by exposing that person's sin and causing him to be humiliated.
A person that is "unashamed" does not feel shame.
A person is "shameless" if he does something shameful but does not feel ashamed.
A "shameless act" is something a person should feel ashamed about doing, but he does not feel ashamed.

Sometimes the word "shame" is used figuratively to refer to a person's nakedness or private parts.

(See also: god, humble, humiliate, Isaiah, repent, sin, worship)

Bible References:

1 Peter 03:15-17
2 Kings 02:17
2 Samuel 13:13
Luke 20:11
Mark 08:38
Mark 12:4-5

Word Data:

Strong's: H937, H954, H955, H1317, H1322, H5949, H2616, H2659, H2781, H3001, H3637, H3639, H3640, H7022, H7036, H8103, G149, G152, G153, G422, G808, G818, G819, G821, G1788, G1791, G1870, G2617, G3681, G3856, G5195

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ashamed, make ... ashamed, put ... to shame, shame, shamed, shameful, shamefully, shameless, shamelessly, shames, unashamed

shepherd

Definition:

A shepherd is a person who takes care of sheep. The verb to "shepherd" means to protect the sheep and provide them with food and water.
Shepherds watch over the sheep, leading them to places with good food and water. Shepherds also keep the sheep from getting lost and protect them from wild animals.
This term is often used metaphorically in the Bible to refer to taking care of people's spiritual needs. This includes teaching them what God has told them in the Bible and guiding them in the way they should live.
In the Old Testament, God was called the "shepherd" of his people because he took care of all their needs and protected them. He also led and guided them.
David was a shepherd who looked after sheep. God made David king over Israel to take care of the people of Israel in some ways like a shepherd takes care of sheep.
In the New Testament, Jesus called himself the "good shepherd." The apostle Peter also referred to Jesus as "the Chief Shepherd" over the Church.
Also, in the New Testament, the term "shepherd" was used to refer to a person who was a spiritual leader over other believers. The word translated as "pastor" is the same word that is translated as "shepherd." The elders and overseers were also called shepherds.

Translation Suggestions

When used literally, the action "shepherd" could be translated as "take care of sheep" or "watch over sheep."
The person "shepherd" could be translated as "person who takes care of sheep" or "sheep tender" or "sheep caregiver."
When used as a metaphor, different ways to translate this term could include "spiritual shepherd" or "spiritual leader" or "one who is like a shepherd" or "one who cares for his people like a shepherd cares for his sheep" or "one who leads his people like a shepherd guides his sheep" or "one who takes care of God's sheep."
In some contexts, "shepherd" could be translated as "leader" or "guide" or "caregiver."
The spiritual expression to "shepherd" could be translated as to "take care of" or to "spiritually nourish" or to "guide and teach" or to "lead and take care of (like a shepherd cares for sheep)."
In figurative uses, it is best to use or include the literal word for "shepherd" in the translation of this term.

(See also: believe, Canaan, church, Moses, pastor, sheep, spirit)

Bible References:

Genesis 49:24
Luke 02:09
Mark 06:34
Mark 14:26-27
Matthew 02:06
Matthew 09:36
Matthew 25:32
Matthew 26:31

Word Data:

Strong's: H6629, H7462, H7469, H7473, G750, G4165, G4166

Forms Found in the English ULB:

chief shepherd, herdsman, herdsmen, keeper, shepherd, shepherd's, shepherded, shepherding, shepherds

sin

Related Ideas:

sinful, sinner

Definition:

The term "sin" refers to actions, thoughts, and words that are against God's will and laws. Sin can also refer to not doing something that God wants us to do.

Sin includes anything we do that does not obey or please God, even things that other people don't know about.
Thoughts and actions that disobey God's will are called "sinful."
Because Adam sinned, all human beings are born with a "sinful nature," a nature that that controls them and causes them to sin.
A "sinner" is someone who sins, so every human being is a sinner.
Sometimes the word "sinners" was used by religious people like the Pharisees to refer to people who didn't keep the law as well as the Pharisees thought they should.
The term "sinner" was also used for people who were considered to be worse sinners than other people. For example, this label was given to tax collectors and prostitutes.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "sin" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "disobedience to God" or "going against God's will" or "evil behavior and thoughts" or "wrongdoing."
To "sin" could also be translated as to "disobey God" or to "do wrong."
Depending on the context "sinful" could be translated as "full of wrongdoing" or "wicked" or "immoral" or "evil" or "rebelling against God."
Depending on the context the term "sinner" could be translated with a word or phrase that means, "person who sins" or "person who does wrong things" or "person who disobeys God" or "person who disobeys the law."
The term "sinners" could be translated by a word or phrase that means "very sinful people" or "people considered to be very sinful" or "immoral people."
Ways to translate "tax collectors and sinners" could include "people who collect money for the government, and other very sinful people" or "very sinful people, including (even) tax collectors."
In expressions like "slaves to sin" or "ruled by sin," the term "sin" could be translated as "disobedience" or "evil desires and actions."
Make sure the translation of this term can include sinful behavior and thoughts, even those that other people don't see or know about.
The term "sin" should be general, and different from the terms for "wickedness" and "evil."

(See also: disobey, evil, flesh, tax)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 09:1-3
1 John 01:10
1 John 02:02
2 Samuel 07:12-14
Acts 03:19
Daniel 09:24
Genesis 04:07
Hebrews 12:02
Isaiah 53:11
Jeremiah 18:23
Leviticus 04:14
Luke 15:18
Matthew 12:31
Romans 06:23
Romans 08:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H817, H819, H2398, H2399, H2400, H2401, H2402, H2403, H2408, H2409, H6588, H7683, H7686, G93, G264, G265, G266, G268, G361, G3781, G3900, G4258

Forms Found in the English ULB:

sin, sinful, sinned, sinner, sinners, sinning, sins

sin

Related Ideas:

sinful, sinner

Definition:

The term "sin" refers to actions, thoughts, and words that are against God's will and laws. Sin can also refer to not doing something that God wants us to do.

Sin includes anything we do that does not obey or please God, even things that other people don't know about.
Thoughts and actions that disobey God's will are called "sinful."
Because Adam sinned, all human beings are born with a "sinful nature," a nature that that controls them and causes them to sin.
A "sinner" is someone who sins, so every human being is a sinner.
Sometimes the word "sinners" was used by religious people like the Pharisees to refer to people who didn't keep the law as well as the Pharisees thought they should.
The term "sinner" was also used for people who were considered to be worse sinners than other people. For example, this label was given to tax collectors and prostitutes.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "sin" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "disobedience to God" or "going against God's will" or "evil behavior and thoughts" or "wrongdoing."
To "sin" could also be translated as to "disobey God" or to "do wrong."
Depending on the context "sinful" could be translated as "full of wrongdoing" or "wicked" or "immoral" or "evil" or "rebelling against God."
Depending on the context the term "sinner" could be translated with a word or phrase that means, "person who sins" or "person who does wrong things" or "person who disobeys God" or "person who disobeys the law."
The term "sinners" could be translated by a word or phrase that means "very sinful people" or "people considered to be very sinful" or "immoral people."
Ways to translate "tax collectors and sinners" could include "people who collect money for the government, and other very sinful people" or "very sinful people, including (even) tax collectors."
In expressions like "slaves to sin" or "ruled by sin," the term "sin" could be translated as "disobedience" or "evil desires and actions."
Make sure the translation of this term can include sinful behavior and thoughts, even those that other people don't see or know about.
The term "sin" should be general, and different from the terms for "wickedness" and "evil."

(See also: disobey, evil, flesh, tax)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 09:1-3
1 John 01:10
1 John 02:02
2 Samuel 07:12-14
Acts 03:19
Daniel 09:24
Genesis 04:07
Hebrews 12:02
Isaiah 53:11
Jeremiah 18:23
Leviticus 04:14
Luke 15:18
Matthew 12:31
Romans 06:23
Romans 08:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H817, H819, H2398, H2399, H2400, H2401, H2402, H2403, H2408, H2409, H6588, H7683, H7686, G93, G264, G265, G266, G268, G361, G3781, G3900, G4258

Forms Found in the English ULB:

sin, sinful, sinned, sinner, sinners, sinning, sins

sin

Related Ideas:

sinful, sinner

Definition:

The term "sin" refers to actions, thoughts, and words that are against God's will and laws. Sin can also refer to not doing something that God wants us to do.

Sin includes anything we do that does not obey or please God, even things that other people don't know about.
Thoughts and actions that disobey God's will are called "sinful."
Because Adam sinned, all human beings are born with a "sinful nature," a nature that that controls them and causes them to sin.
A "sinner" is someone who sins, so every human being is a sinner.
Sometimes the word "sinners" was used by religious people like the Pharisees to refer to people who didn't keep the law as well as the Pharisees thought they should.
The term "sinner" was also used for people who were considered to be worse sinners than other people. For example, this label was given to tax collectors and prostitutes.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "sin" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "disobedience to God" or "going against God's will" or "evil behavior and thoughts" or "wrongdoing."
To "sin" could also be translated as to "disobey God" or to "do wrong."
Depending on the context "sinful" could be translated as "full of wrongdoing" or "wicked" or "immoral" or "evil" or "rebelling against God."
Depending on the context the term "sinner" could be translated with a word or phrase that means, "person who sins" or "person who does wrong things" or "person who disobeys God" or "person who disobeys the law."
The term "sinners" could be translated by a word or phrase that means "very sinful people" or "people considered to be very sinful" or "immoral people."
Ways to translate "tax collectors and sinners" could include "people who collect money for the government, and other very sinful people" or "very sinful people, including (even) tax collectors."
In expressions like "slaves to sin" or "ruled by sin," the term "sin" could be translated as "disobedience" or "evil desires and actions."
Make sure the translation of this term can include sinful behavior and thoughts, even those that other people don't see or know about.
The term "sin" should be general, and different from the terms for "wickedness" and "evil."

(See also: disobey, evil, flesh, tax)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 09:1-3
1 John 01:10
1 John 02:02
2 Samuel 07:12-14
Acts 03:19
Daniel 09:24
Genesis 04:07
Hebrews 12:02
Isaiah 53:11
Jeremiah 18:23
Leviticus 04:14
Luke 15:18
Matthew 12:31
Romans 06:23
Romans 08:04

Word Data:

Strong's: H817, H819, H2398, H2399, H2400, H2401, H2402, H2403, H2408, H2409, H6588, H7683, H7686, G93, G264, G265, G266, G268, G361, G3781, G3900, G4258

Forms Found in the English ULB:

sin, sinful, sinned, sinner, sinners, sinning, sins

sister

Definition:

A sister is a female person who shares at least one biological parent with another person. She is said to be that other person’s sister or the sister of that other person.

In the New Testament, "sister" is also used figuratively to refer to a woman who is a fellow believer in Jesus Christ.
Sometimes the phrase "brothers and sisters" is used to refer to all believers in Christ, both men and women.
In the Old Testament book Song of Songs, "sister" refers to a female lover or wife.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate this term with the literal word that is used in the target language to refer to a natural or biological sister, unless this would give wrong meaning.
Other ways to translate this could include "sister in Christ" or "spiritual sister" or "woman who believes in Jesus" or "fellow woman believer."
If possible, it is best to use a family term.
If the language has a feminine form for "believer," this may be a possible way to translate this term.
When referring to a lover or wife, this could be translated using a feminine form of "loved one" or "dear one."

(See also: brother in Christ, spirit)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 02:16-17
Deuteronomy 27:22
Philemon 01:02
Romans 16:01

Word Data:

Strong's: H269, G27, G79

Forms Found in the English ULB:

sister, sister's, sisters, sisters'

slander

Related Ideas:

slanderer, slanderous, speak evil about

Definition:

Slander consists of negative, defaming things spoken (not written) about another person. To say such things (not to write them) about someone is to slander that person. The person saying such things is a slanderer.

Slander may be a true report or a false accusation, but its effect is to cause others to think negatively of the person being slandered.
To "slander" could be translated as to "speak against" or to "spread an evil report" or to "defame."
The word "slanderer" could also be translated as "tale-bearer."

(See also: blasphemy)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 04:13
1 Timothy 03:11
2 Corinthians 06:8-10
Mark 07:20-23

Word Data:

Strong's: H1681, H1696, H1848, H3960, H5791, H7270, H7400, H8267, G987, G988, G1228, G1426, G2635, G2636, G2637, G3059, G3060

Forms Found in the English ULB:

slander, slandered, slanderer, slanderers, slandering, slanderous, slanders, speak evil about, spoken of as evil

son

Definition:

The male offspring of a man and a woman is called their "son" for his entire life. He is also called a son of that man and a son of that woman. An "adopted son" is a male who has been legally placed into the position of being a son.

"Son" was often used figuratively in the Bible to refer to any male descendant, such as a grandson or great-grandson.
The term "son" can also be used as a polite form of address to a boy or man who is younger than the speaker.
Sometimes "sons of God" was used in the New Testament to refer to believers in Christ.
God called Israel his "firstborn son." This refers to God's choosing of the nation of Israel to be his special people. It is through them that God's message of redemption and salvation came, with the result that many other people have become his spiritual children.
The phrase "son of" often has the figurative meaning "person having the characteristics of." Examples of this include "sons of the light," "sons of disobedience," "a son of peace," and "sons of thunder."
The phrase "son of" is also used to tell who a person's father is. This phrase is used in genealogies and many other places.
Using "son of" to give the name of the father frequently helps distinguish people who have the same name. For example, "Azariah son of Zadok" and "Azariah son of Nathan" in 1 Kings 4, and "Azariah son of Amaziah" in 2 Kings 15 are three different men.

Translation Suggestions:

In most occurrences of this term, it is best to translate "son" by the literal term in the language that is used to refer to a son.
When translating the term "Son of God," the project language's common term for "son" should be used.
When used to refer to a descendant rather than a direct son, the term "descendant" could be used, as in referring to Jesus as the "descendant of David" or in genealogies where sometimes "son" referred to a male descendant who was not an actual son.
Sometimes "sons" can be translated as "children," when both males and females are being referred to. For example, "sons of God" could be translated as "children of God" since this expression also includes girls and women.
The figurative expression "son of" could also be translated as "someone who has the characteristics of" or "someone who is like" or "someone who has" or "someone who acts like."

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 18:15
1 Kings 13:02
1 Thessalonians 05:05
Galatians 04:07
Hosea 11:01
Isaiah 09:06
Matthew 03:17
Matthew 05:09
Matthew 08:12
Nehemiah 10:28

Word Data:

Strong's: H1060, H1121, H1123, H1247, H1248, H3173, H3206, H3211, H5209, H5220, G3816, G5043, G5207

Forms Found in the English ULB:

son, son's, sons

son

Definition:

"Son" was often used figuratively in the Bible to refer to any male descendant, such as a grandson or great-grandson.
The term "son" can also be used as a polite form of address to a boy or man who is younger than the speaker.
Sometimes "sons of God" was used in the New Testament to refer to believers in Christ.
God called Israel his "firstborn son." This refers to God's choosing of the nation of Israel to be his special people. It is through them that God's message of redemption and salvation came, with the result that many other people have become his spiritual children.
The phrase "son of" often has the figurative meaning "person having the characteristics of." Examples of this include "sons of the light," "sons of disobedience," "a son of peace," and "sons of thunder."
The phrase "son of" is also used to tell who a person's father is. This phrase is used in genealogies and many other places.
Using "son of" to give the name of the father frequently helps distinguish people who have the same name. For example, "Azariah son of Zadok" and "Azariah son of Nathan" in 1 Kings 4, and "Azariah son of Amaziah" in 2 Kings 15 are three different men.

Translation Suggestions:

In most occurrences of this term, it is best to translate "son" by the literal term in the language that is used to refer to a son.
When translating the term "Son of God," the project language's common term for "son" should be used.
When used to refer to a descendant rather than a direct son, the term "descendant" could be used, as in referring to Jesus as the "descendant of David" or in genealogies where sometimes "son" referred to a male descendant who was not an actual son.
Sometimes "sons" can be translated as "children," when both males and females are being referred to. For example, "sons of God" could be translated as "children of God" since this expression also includes girls and women.
The figurative expression "son of" could also be translated as "someone who has the characteristics of" or "someone who is like" or "someone who has" or "someone who acts like."

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 18:15
1 Kings 13:02
1 Thessalonians 05:05
Galatians 04:07
Hosea 11:01
Isaiah 09:06
Matthew 03:17
Matthew 05:09
Matthew 08:12
Nehemiah 10:28

Word Data:

Strong's: H1060, H1121, H1123, H1247, H1248, H3173, H3206, H3211, H5209, H5220, G3816, G5043, G5207

Forms Found in the English ULB:

son, son's, sons

soul

Related Ideas:

person

Definition:

The soul is the inner, invisible part of a person. It refers to the non-physical part of a person. It is the part of a person that continues living after the body dies.

The terms "soul" and "spirit" may be two different concepts, or they may be two terms that refer to the same concept.
When a person dies, his soul leaves his body.
The word "soul" is sometimes used figuratively to refer to the whole person. For example, "the soul who sins" means "the person who sins" and "my soul is tired" means,"I am tired."

Translation Suggestions:

The term "soul" could also be translated as "inner self" or "inner person."
In some contexts, "my soul" could be translated as "I" or "me."
Usually the phrase "the soul" can be translated as "the person" or "he" or "him," depending on the context.
Some languages might only have one word for the concepts "soul" and "spirit."
In Hebrews 4:12, the figurative phrase "dividing soul and spirit" could mean "deeply discerning or exposing the inner person."

(See also: spirit)

Bible References:

2 Peter 02:08
Acts 02:27-28
Acts 02:41
Genesis 49:06
Isaiah 53:10-11
James 01:21
Jeremiah 06:16-19
Jonah 02:7-8
Luke 01:47
Matthew 22:37
Psalms 019:07
Revelation 20:4

Word Data:

Strong's: H5315, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

person, persons, soul, souls

spirit

Related Ideas:

ghost, spiritual

Definition:

The term "spirit" refers to the non-physical part of people which cannot be seen. When a person dies, his spirit leaves his body. "Spirit" can also refer to an attitude or emotional state.

The term "spirit" can refer to a being that does not have a physical body, especially an evil spirit.
A person's spirit is the part of him that can know God and believe in him.
In general, the term "spiritual" describes anything in the non-physical world.
In the Bible, it especially refers to anything that relates to God, specifically to the Holy Spirit.
For example, "spiritual food" refers to God's teachings, which give nourishment to a person's spirit, and "spiritual wisdom" refers to the knowledge and righteous behavior that come from the power of the Holy Spirit.
God is a spirit and he created other spirit beings, who do not have physical bodies.
Angels are spirit beings, including those who rebelled against God and became evil spirits.
The term "spirit of" can also mean "having the characteristics of," such as in "spirit of wisdom" or "in the spirit of Elijah."
Examples of "spirit" as an attitude or emotion would include "spirit of fear" and "spirit of jealousy."

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, some ways to translate "spirit" might include "non-physical being" or "inside part" or "inner being."
In some contexts, the term "spirit" could be translated as "evil spirit" or "evil spirit being."
Sometimes the term "spirit" is used to express the feelings of a person, as in "my spirit was grieved in my inmost being." This could also be translated as "I felt grieved in my spirit" or "I felt deeply grieved."
The phrase "spirit of" could be translated as "character of" or "influence of" or "attitude of" or "thinking (that is) characterized by."
Depending on the context, "spiritual" could be translated as "non-physical" or "from the Holy Spirit" or "God's" or "part of the non-physical world."
The figurative expression "spiritual milk" could also be translated as "basic teachings from God" or "God's teachings that nourish the spirit (like milk does)."
The phrase "spiritual maturity" could be translated as "godly behavior that shows obedience to the Holy Spirit."
The term "spiritual gift" could be translated as "special ability that the Holy Spirit gives

(See also: angel, demon, Holy Spirit, soul, divination)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 05:05
1 John 04:03
1 Thessalonians 05:23
Acts 05:09
Colossians 01:09
Ephesians 04:23
Genesis 07:21-22
Isaiah 04:04
Mark 01:23-26
Matthew 26:41
Philippians 01:27

Word Data:

Strong's: H178, H5397, H7307, H7308, G4151, G4152, G4153, G4861, G5326, G5427

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ghost, spirit, spirits, spiritual, spiritually

suffer

Related Ideas:

misery

Definition:

The terms "suffer" and "suffering" refer to experiencing something very unpleasant, such as illness, pain, or other hardships.

When people are persecuted or when they are sick, they suffer.
Sometimes people suffer because of wrong things they have done; other times they suffer because of sin and disease in the world.
Suffering can be physical, such as feeling pain or sickness. It can also be emotional, such as feeling fear, sadness, or loneliness.
'Misery' is what a person feels when they suffer.

Translation Suggestions:

The term "suffer" can be translated as "feel pain" or "endure difficulty" or "experience hardships" or "go through difficult and painful experiences."
Depending on the context, "suffering" could be translated as "extremely difficult circumstances" or "severe hardships" or "experiencing hardship" or "time of painful experiences."
The phrase "suffer thirst" could be translated as "experience thirst" or "suffer with thirst."
To "suffer violence" could also be translated as "undergo violence" or "be harmed by violent acts."

Bible References:

1 Thessalonians 02:14-16
2 Thessalonians 01:3-5
2 Timothy 01:08
Acts 07:11-13
Isaiah 53:11
Jeremiah 06:6-8
Matthew 16:21
Psalms 022:24
Revelation 01:09
Romans 05:3-5

Word Data:

Strong's: H816, H943, H1741, H1934, H4531, G4912, H5142, H5375, H5999, H6001, H6031, H6040, H6041, H6090, H6770, H6869, H6887, H7489, H7661, G91, G941, G971, G2210, G2346, G2347, G2552, G2553, G2561, G3804, G3958, G4310, G4778, G4777, G4841, G5004

Forms Found in the English ULB:

miseries, suffer, suffered, suffering, sufferings, suffers

teach

Related Ideas:

educated, teaching, untaught

Definition:

To "teach" someone is to tell him something he doesn’t already know. It can also mean to "provide information" in general, with no reference to the person who is learning. Usually the information is given in a formal or systematic way. A person’s "teaching" is or his "teachings" are what he has taught.

A "teacher" is someone who teaches. The past action of "teach" is "taught."
When Jesus was teaching, he was explaining things about God and his kingdom.
Jesus' disciples called him "Teacher" as a respectful form of address for someone who taught people about God.
The information that is being taught can be shown or spoken.
The phrase "what you have been taught" could also be translated as, "what these people have taught you" or "what God has taught you," depending on the context.
Other ways to translate "teach" could include "tell" or "explain" or "instruct."
Often this term can be translated as "teaching people about God."
A person who is "educated" has been taught formally.
A person who is "untaught" has not been taught.
A "teaching" is the information that someone teaches.

(See also: instruct, teacher, word of God)

Bible References:

1 Timothy 01:03
Acts 02:40-42
John 07:14
Luke 04:31
Matthew 04:23
Psalms 032:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H502, H995, H2094, H2449, H2596, H3045, H3046, H3256, H3384, H3925, H3948, H7919, H8150, H8451, G1317, G1319, G1321, G1322, G2085, G2605, G2727, G2312, G2567, G3811

Forms Found in the English ULB:

educated, taught, teach, teaches, teaching, teachings, untaught

teach

Related Ideas:

educated, teaching, untaught

Definition:

A "teacher" is someone who teaches. The past action of "teach" is "taught."
When Jesus was teaching, he was explaining things about God and his kingdom.
Jesus' disciples called him "Teacher" as a respectful form of address for someone who taught people about God.
The information that is being taught can be shown or spoken.
The phrase "what you have been taught" could also be translated as, "what these people have taught you" or "what God has taught you," depending on the context.
Other ways to translate "teach" could include "tell" or "explain" or "instruct."
Often this term can be translated as "teaching people about God."
A person who is "educated" has been taught formally.
A person who is "untaught" has not been taught.
A "teaching" is the information that someone teaches.

(See also: instruct, teacher, word of God)

Bible References:

1 Timothy 01:03
Acts 02:40-42
John 07:14
Luke 04:31
Matthew 04:23
Psalms 032:08

Word Data:

Strong's: H502, H995, H2094, H2449, H2596, H3045, H3046, H3256, H3384, H3925, H3948, H7919, H8150, H8451, G1317, G1319, G1321, G1322, G2085, G2605, G2727, G2312, G2567, G3811

Forms Found in the English ULB:

educated, taught, teach, teaches, teaching, teachings, untaught

tent

Related Ideas:

camp, encamp, tentmaker

Definition:

A tent is a portable shelter made of sturdy fabric that is draped over a structure of poles and attached to them.

Tents can be small, with just enough space for a few people to sleep in, or they can be very large, with space for an entire family to sleep, cook, and live in.
For many people, tents are used as permanent dwelling places. For example, during most of the time that Abraham's family lived in the land of Canaan, they dwelled in large tents constucted from sturdy cloth made of goat hair.
The Israelites also lived in tents during their forty-year wanderings through the desert of Sinai.
The tabernacle building was a kind of very large tent, with thick walls made of cloth curtains.
When the apostle Paul traveled to different cities to share the gospel, he supported himself by making tents.
The term "tents" is sometimes used figuratively to refer generally to where people live. This could also be translated as "homes" or "dwellings" or "houses" or even "bodies."
To "camp" is to sleep in tents or other temporary shelters.
To "encamp" is for an army to set up camp near a place they will attack.

(See also: Abraham, Canaan, curtain, Paul, Sinai, tabernacle, tent of meeting)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 05:10
Daniel 11:45
Exodus 16:18
Genesis 12:09

Word Data:

Strong's: H167, H168, H2918, H3407, H4908, H6898, G3925, G4633, G4636

Forms Found in the English ULB:

camp, camped, camping, camps, encamp, encamped, encampments, encamps, tent, tentmakers, tents

test

Related Ideas:

put to the test

Definition:

The term "test" refers to a difficult or painful experience that reveals a person's strengths and weaknesses.

God tests people, but he does not tempt them to sin. Satan, however, tempts people to sin.
God sometimes uses tests to expose people's sin. A test helps a person to turn away from sin and to draw closer to God.
Gold and other metals are tested with fire to find out how pure and strong they are. This is a picture of how God uses painful circumstances to test his people.
To "put to the test" can mean, "challenge something or someone to prove its value."
In the context of putting God to the test, it means to try to make him do a miracle for us, taking advantage of his mercy.
Jesus told Satan that it is wrong to put God to the test. He is the almighty, holy God who is above everything and everyone.

Translation Suggestions:

The term to "test" could also be translated as, to "challenge" or to "cause to experience difficulties" or to "prove."
Ways to translate "a test" could be, "a challenge" or "a difficult experience."
To "put to the test" could be translated as to "test" or to "set up a challenge" or to "force to prove oneself."
In the context of testing God, this could be translated as, "trying to force God to prove his love."
In some contexts, when God is not the subject, the term "test" can mean "tempt."

(See also: tempt)

Bible References:

1 John 04:01
1 Thessalonians 05:21
Acts 15:10
Genesis 22:01
Isaiah 07:13
James 01:12
Lamentations 03:40-43
Malachi 03:10
Philippians 01:10
Psalm 026:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H1305, H2713, H5254, H5713, H5715, H5749, H6030, H8584, G350, G1252, G1263, G1381, G1382, G1598, G1957, G2983, G3140, G3141, G3142, G3143, G3984, G3985, G3986, G4451, G4828

Forms Found in the English ULB:

put ... to the test, test, tested, testing, tests

test

Related Ideas:

put to the test

Definition:

The term "test" refers to a difficult or painful experience that reveals a person's strengths and weaknesses.

God tests people, but he does not tempt them to sin. Satan, however, tempts people to sin.
God sometimes uses tests to expose people's sin. A test helps a person to turn away from sin and to draw closer to God.
Gold and other metals are tested with fire to find out how pure and strong they are. This is a picture of how God uses painful circumstances to test his people.
To "put to the test" can mean, "challenge something or someone to prove its value."
In the context of putting God to the test, it means to try to make him do a miracle for us, taking advantage of his mercy.
Jesus told Satan that it is wrong to put God to the test. He is the almighty, holy God who is above everything and everyone.

Translation Suggestions:

The term to "test" could also be translated as, to "challenge" or to "cause to experience difficulties" or to "prove."
Ways to translate "a test" could be, "a challenge" or "a difficult experience."
To "put to the test" could be translated as to "test" or to "set up a challenge" or to "force to prove oneself."
In the context of testing God, this could be translated as, "trying to force God to prove his love."
In some contexts, when God is not the subject, the term "test" can mean "tempt."

(See also: tempt)

Bible References:

1 John 04:01
1 Thessalonians 05:21
Acts 15:10
Genesis 22:01
Isaiah 07:13
James 01:12
Lamentations 03:40-43
Malachi 03:10
Philippians 01:10
Psalm 026:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H1305, H2713, H5254, H5713, H5715, H5749, H6030, H8584, G350, G1252, G1263, G1381, G1382, G1598, G1957, G2983, G3140, G3141, G3142, G3143, G3984, G3985, G3986, G4451, G4828

Forms Found in the English ULB:

put ... to the test, test, tested, testing, tests

testimony

Related Ideas:

eyewitness, testify, witness

Definition:

When a person gives "testimony" he makes a statement about something he knows, claiming that the statement is true. To "testify" is to give "testimony."

Often a person "testifies" about something he has experienced directly.
A witness who gives "false testimony" does not tell the truth about what happened.
Sometimes the term "testimony" refers to a prophecy that a prophet has stated.
In the New Testament, this term was often used to refer to how Jesus' followers testified about the events of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

The term "witness" refers to a person who has personally experienced something that happened. Usually a witness is also someone who testifies about what they know is true. The term "eyewitness" emphasizes that the person was actually there and saw what happened.

To "witness" something means to see it happen.
At a trial, a witness "gives witness" or "bears witness." This has the same meaning as "testify."
Witnesses are expected to tell the truth about what they have seen or heard.
A witness who does not tell the truth about what happened is called a "false witness." He is said to "give false witness" or to "bear false witness."
The expression "be a witness between" means that something or someone will be evidence that a contract has been made. The witness will make sure each person does what he has promised to do.

Translation Suggestions:

Translating "testify" and "testimony": * The term "testify" or "give testimony" could also be translated as, "tell the facts" or "tell what was seen or heard" or "tell from personal experience" or "tell what happened." * Ways to translate "testimony" could include, "report of what happened" or "statement of what is true" or "what has been said." * The phrase, "as a testimony to them" could be translated as, to "show them what is true" or to "prove to them what is true." * The phrase, "as a testimony against them" could be translated as, "which will show them their sin" or "exposing their hypocrisy" or "which will prove that they are wrong." * To "give false testimony" could be translated as "say false things about" or "state things that are not true."

Translating "witness" and "eyewitness": * The term "witness" or "eyewitness" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "person seeing it" or "the one who saw it happen" or "those who saw and heard (those things)." * Something that is "a witness" could be translated as "guarantee" or "sign of our promise" or "something that testifies that this is true." * The phrase "you will be my witnesses" could also be translated as "you will tell other people about me" or "you will teach people the truth that I taught you" or "you will tell people what you have seen me do and heard me teach." * To "witness to" could be translated as to "tell what was seen" or to "testify" or to "state what happened." * To "witness" something could be translated as to "see something that happens" or to "experience something that happens."

(See also: ark of the covenant, guilt, judge, prophet, true)

Bible References:

Deuteronomy 31:28
Micah 06:03
Matthew 26:60
Mark 01:44
John 01:07
John 03:33
Acts 04:32-33
Acts 07:44
Acts 13:31
Romans 01:09
1 Thessalonians 02:10-12
1 Timothy 05:19-20
2 Timothy 01:08
2 Peter 01:16-18
1 John 05:6-8
3 John 01:12
Revelation 12:11

Word Data:

Strong's: H5707, H5713, H5715, H5749, H6030, H6315, H8584, G267, G1263, G1957, G2649, G3140, G3141, G3142, G3143, G3144, G4828, G4901, G5575, G5576, G5577

Forms Found in the English ULB:

eyewitness, eyewitnesses, testified, testifies, testify, testify against, testifying, testimony, witness, witnessed, witnesses

testimony

Related Ideas:

eyewitness, testify, witness

Definition:

When a person gives "testimony" he makes a statement about something he knows, claiming that the statement is true. To "testify" is to give "testimony."

Often a person "testifies" about something he has experienced directly.
A witness who gives "false testimony" does not tell the truth about what happened.
Sometimes the term "testimony" refers to a prophecy that a prophet has stated.
In the New Testament, this term was often used to refer to how Jesus' followers testified about the events of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

To "witness" something means to see it happen.
At a trial, a witness "gives witness" or "bears witness." This has the same meaning as "testify."
Witnesses are expected to tell the truth about what they have seen or heard.
A witness who does not tell the truth about what happened is called a "false witness." He is said to "give false witness" or to "bear false witness."
The expression "be a witness between" means that something or someone will be evidence that a contract has been made. The witness will make sure each person does what he has promised to do.

Translation Suggestions:

(See also: ark of the covenant, guilt, judge, prophet, true)

Bible References:

Deuteronomy 31:28
Micah 06:03
Matthew 26:60
Mark 01:44
John 01:07
John 03:33
Acts 04:32-33
Acts 07:44
Acts 13:31
Romans 01:09
1 Thessalonians 02:10-12
1 Timothy 05:19-20
2 Timothy 01:08
2 Peter 01:16-18
1 John 05:6-8
3 John 01:12
Revelation 12:11

Word Data:

Strong's: H5707, H5713, H5715, H5749, H6030, H6315, H8584, G267, G1263, G1957, G2649, G3140, G3141, G3142, G3143, G3144, G4828, G4901, G5575, G5576, G5577

Forms Found in the English ULB:

eyewitness, eyewitnesses, testified, testifies, testify, testify against, testifying, testimony, witness, witnessed, witnesses

the sea

Facts:

In the Bible, the "Great Sea" or "western sea" refers to what is now called the "Mediterranean Sea," which was the largest body of water known to the people of Bible times.

The Mediterranean Sea is bordered by : Israel (east), Europe (north and west), and Africa (south).
This sea was very important in ancient times for trade and travel since it bordered so many countries. Cities and people groups located on the coast of this sea were very prosperous because of how easy it was to access goods from other countries by boat.
Since the Great Sea was located to the west of Israel, it was sometimes referred to as the "western sea."

(See also: Israel, people group, prosper)

Bible References:

Ezekiel 47:15-17
Ezekiel 47:18-20
Joshua 15:3-4
Numbers 13:27-29

Word Data:

Strong's: H314, H1419, H3220

Forms Found in the English ULB:

the sea, the Great Sea, the western sea, Mediterranean Sea

time

Definitions:

In the Bible the term "time" was often used to refer to a specific season or period of time when certain events took place. It has a meaning similar to "age" or "epoch" or "season."

In both Daniel and Revelation speak of a "time" of great trouble or tribulation that will come upon the earth.
In the phrase "time, times, and half a time" the term "time" means "year." This phrase refers to a three-and-a-half-year period of time during the great tribulation at the end of this present age.
"Time" can mean "occasion" in a phrase like "third time." The phrase "many times" can mean "on many occasions."
To be "on time" means to do something when expected or needed, not late.
Depending on the context, the term "time" could be translated as, "season" or "time period" or "moment" or "event" or "occurrence."

(See also: age, tribulation)

Bible References:

Acts 01:07
Daniel 12:1-2
Mark 11:11
Matthew 08:29
Psalms 068:28-29
Revelation 14:15

Word Data:

Strong's: H116, H227, H1697, H1755, H2165, H2166, H2233, H2465, H3027, H3117, H3118, H3119, H3259, H3427, H4150, H4279, H4489, H4557, H4592, H5331, H5703, H5732, H5750, H5769, H6235, H6256, H6440, H6471, H6924, H7105, H7138, H7223, H7272, H7637, H7651, H7655, H7659, H7674, H8027, H8032, H8138, H8145, H8160, H8462, H8543, G744, G530, G1074, G1208, G1441, G1597, G1626, G2034, G2119, G2121, G2250, G2540, G3461, G3568, G3764, G3819, G3999, G4181, G4183, G4218, G4287, G4340, G4455, G5151, G5305, G5550, G5551, G5610

Forms Found in the English ULB:

time, times

tongue

Related Ideas:

language

Definition:

There are several figurative meanings of "tongue" in the Bible.

In the Bible, the most common figurative meaning for this term is "language" or "speech."
Sometimes "tongue" may refer to a human language spoken by a certain people group.
Other times it refers to a supernatural language that the Holy Spirit gives believers in Christ as one of the "gifts of the Spirit."
The expression "tongues" of fire refers to "flames" of fire.
In the expression "my tongue rejoices," the term "tongue" refers to the whole person.
The phrase "lying tongue" refers to a person's voice or speech. (See: metonymy)

Translation Suggestions

Depending on the context, the term "tongue" can be translated by "language" or "spiritual language." If it is not clear which one it is referring to, it is better to translate it as "language."
When referring to fire, this term could be translated as "flames."
The expression "my tongue rejoices" could be translated as "I rejoice and praise God" or "I am joyfully praising God."
The phrase, "tongue that lies" could be translated as "person who tell lies" or "people who lie."
Phrases such as "with their tongues" could be translated as "with what they say" or "by their words."

(See also: gift, Holy Spirit, joy, praise, joy, spirit)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 12:10
1 John 03:18
2 Samuel 23:02
Acts 02:26
Ezekiel 36:03
Philippians 02:11

Word Data:

Strong's: H3956, G1100, G1258, G2084, G5456

Forms Found in the English ULB:

language, languages, tongue, tongues

true

Related Ideas:

certain, certainly, certainty, indeed, real, sure, surely, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, truths

Definition:

The term "truth" refers to one or more concepts that are facts, events that actually happened, and statements that were actually said. Such concepts are said to be "true."

True things are real, genuine, actual, rightful, legitimate, and factual.
The truth is an understanding, belief, fact, or statement that is true.
To say that a prophecy "came true" or "will come true" mean that it actually happened as predicted or that it will happen that way.
The word "truly" is used to emphasize what the speaker is saying. "Truly" is sometimes translated as "surely" or "certainly."
Truth includes the concept of acting in a way that is reliable and faithful.
Jesus revealed God's truth in the words that he spoke.
God's word is truth. It tells about things that actually happened and teaches what is true about God and about everything he has made.
The word "certainty" refers to a truth about which one can be certain that it is true.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context and what is being described, the term "true" could also be translated by "real" or "factual" or "correct" or "right" or "certain" or "genuine."
Ways to translate the term "truth" could include "what is true" or "fact" or "certainty" or "principle."
The expression "come true" could also be translated as "actually happen" or "be fulfilled" or "happen as predicted."
The expression "tell the truth" or "speak the truth" could also be translated as "say what is true" or "tell what really happened" or "say things that are reliable."
To "accept the truth" could be translated as "believe what is true about God."

(See also: believe, faithful, fulfill, obey, prophet, understand)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 05:6-8
1 John 01:5-7
1 John 02:08
3 John 01:08
Acts 26:24-26
Colossians 01:06
Genesis 47:29-31
James 01:18
James 03:14
James 05:19
Jeremiah 04:02
John 01:9
John 01:16-18
John 01:51
John 03:31-33
Joshua 07:19-21
Lamentations 05:19-22
Matthew 08:10
Matthew 12:17
Psalm 026:1-3
Revelation 01:19-20
Revelation 15:3-4

Word Data:

Strong's: H530, H543, H551, H571, H3330, H5229, H6664, H6965, H7187, H7189, G225, G226, G227, G228, G230, G281, G803, G804, G1103, G3483, G4103, G4137, G5198, G5199

Forms Found in the English ULB:

certainly, certainty, for certain, indeed, real, sure, surely, true, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, truths

true

Related Ideas:

certain, certainly, certainty, indeed, real, sure, surely, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, truths

Definition:

The term "truth" refers to one or more concepts that are facts, events that actually happened, and statements that were actually said. Such concepts are said to be "true."

True things are real, genuine, actual, rightful, legitimate, and factual.
The truth is an understanding, belief, fact, or statement that is true.
To say that a prophecy "came true" or "will come true" mean that it actually happened as predicted or that it will happen that way.
The word "truly" is used to emphasize what the speaker is saying. "Truly" is sometimes translated as "surely" or "certainly."
Truth includes the concept of acting in a way that is reliable and faithful.
Jesus revealed God's truth in the words that he spoke.
God's word is truth. It tells about things that actually happened and teaches what is true about God and about everything he has made.
The word "certainty" refers to a truth about which one can be certain that it is true.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context and what is being described, the term "true" could also be translated by "real" or "factual" or "correct" or "right" or "certain" or "genuine."
Ways to translate the term "truth" could include "what is true" or "fact" or "certainty" or "principle."
The expression "come true" could also be translated as "actually happen" or "be fulfilled" or "happen as predicted."
The expression "tell the truth" or "speak the truth" could also be translated as "say what is true" or "tell what really happened" or "say things that are reliable."
To "accept the truth" could be translated as "believe what is true about God."

(See also: believe, faithful, fulfill, obey, prophet, understand)

Bible References:

1 Corinthians 05:6-8
1 John 01:5-7
1 John 02:08
3 John 01:08
Acts 26:24-26
Colossians 01:06
Genesis 47:29-31
James 01:18
James 03:14
James 05:19
Jeremiah 04:02
John 01:9
John 01:16-18
John 01:51
John 03:31-33
Joshua 07:19-21
Lamentations 05:19-22
Matthew 08:10
Matthew 12:17
Psalm 026:1-3
Revelation 01:19-20
Revelation 15:3-4

Word Data:

Strong's: H530, H543, H551, H571, H3330, H5229, H6664, H6965, H7187, H7189, G225, G226, G227, G228, G230, G281, G803, G804, G1103, G3483, G4103, G4137, G5198, G5199

Forms Found in the English ULB:

certainly, certainty, for certain, indeed, real, sure, surely, true, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, truths

trust

Related Ideas:

entrust, trustworthiness, trustworthy

Definition:

To "trust" something or someone is to believe that the thing or person is true or dependable. That belief is also called "trust." A "trustworthy" person is one you can trust to do and say what is right and true, and therefore one who has the quality of "trustworthiness."

Trust is closely related to faith. If we trust someone, we have faith in that person to do what they promised to do.
Having trust in someone also means depending on that person.
To "trust in" Jesus means to believe that he is God, to believe that he died on the cross to pay for our sins, and to rely on him to save us.
A "trustworthy saying" refers to something that is said that can be counted on to be true.
For one person to "entrust" something to a second person is for the first person to give that thing to the second person and expect that the second person will do what the first person tells him to do.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "trust" could include "believe" or "have faith" or "have confidence" or "depend on."
The phrase "put your trust in" is very similar in meaning to "trust in."
The term "trustworthy" could be translated as "dependable" or "reliable" or "can always be trusted."

(See also: believe, confidence, faith, faithful, true)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 09:22-24
1 Timothy 04:09
Hosea 10:12-13
Isaiah 31:1-2
Nehemiah 13:13
Psalm 031:05
Titus 03:8

Word Data:

Strong's: H530, H539, H540, H571, H982, H1556, H2620, H3176, H4009, H4268, H7365, G1679, G3860, G3982, G4100, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

entrust, entrusted, entrusting, trust, trusted, trusting, trusts, trustworthiness, trustworthy

understand

Related Ideas:

argument, craftiness, insight, intelligent, realize, unintentionally, without understanding

Definition:

The term "understand" means to hear or receive information and know what it means.

The term "understanding" can refer to "knowledge" or "wisdom" or realizing how to do something.
To understand someone can also mean to know how that person is feeling.
A person who is "without understanding" does not understand.
While walking on the road to Emmaus, Jesus caused the disciples to understand the meaning of the scriptures about the Messiah.
Depending on the context, the term "understand" could be translated by "know" or "believe" or "comprehend" or "know what (something) means."
Often the term "understanding" can be translated by "knowledge" or "wisdom" or "insight."
"Arguments" are statements that one person makes to share his understanding with another person and to convince that other person to understand something the same way.
"Craftiness" is understanding used for evil.
An "intelligent" person thinks clearly and learns quickly.
To do something "unintentionally" is to do it without knowing or by accident or without intending to do it.

(See also: believe, know, wise)

Bible References:

Job 34:16-17
Luke 02:47
Luke 08:10
Matthew 13:12
Matthew 13:14
Proverbs 03:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H995, H998, H999, H1847, H2940, H3045, H3820, H3823, H3824, H4486, H7200, H7919, H7922, H7924, H8085, H8394, G50, G144, G145, G191, G801, G1097, G1108, G1271, G1380, G1492, G1921, G1922, G1987, G1990, G2638, G2657, G3539, G3563, G4894, G4907, G4908, G4920, G5424, G5428, G5429

Forms Found in the English ULB:

arguments, craftiness, gain understanding, gives ... insight, insight, intelligent, realize, realized, understand, understanding, understands, understood, unintentionally, without understanding

understand

Related Ideas:

argument, craftiness, insight, intelligent, realize, unintentionally, without understanding

Definition:

The term "understand" means to hear or receive information and know what it means.

The term "understanding" can refer to "knowledge" or "wisdom" or realizing how to do something.
To understand someone can also mean to know how that person is feeling.
A person who is "without understanding" does not understand.
While walking on the road to Emmaus, Jesus caused the disciples to understand the meaning of the scriptures about the Messiah.
Depending on the context, the term "understand" could be translated by "know" or "believe" or "comprehend" or "know what (something) means."
Often the term "understanding" can be translated by "knowledge" or "wisdom" or "insight."
"Arguments" are statements that one person makes to share his understanding with another person and to convince that other person to understand something the same way.
"Craftiness" is understanding used for evil.
An "intelligent" person thinks clearly and learns quickly.
To do something "unintentionally" is to do it without knowing or by accident or without intending to do it.

(See also: believe, know, wise)

Bible References:

Job 34:16-17
Luke 02:47
Luke 08:10
Matthew 13:12
Matthew 13:14
Proverbs 03:05

Word Data:

Strong's: H995, H998, H999, H1847, H2940, H3045, H3820, H3823, H3824, H4486, H7200, H7919, H7922, H7924, H8085, H8394, G50, G144, G145, G191, G801, G1097, G1108, G1271, G1380, G1492, G1921, G1922, G1987, G1990, G2638, G2657, G3539, G3563, G4894, G4907, G4908, G4920, G5424, G5428, G5429

Forms Found in the English ULB:

arguments, craftiness, gain understanding, gives ... insight, insight, intelligent, realize, realized, understand, understanding, understands, understood, unintentionally, without understanding

vision

Definitions:

The term "vision" refers to something that a person sees. It especially refers to something unusual or supernatural that God shows people in order to give them a message.

Usually, visions are seen while the person is awake. However, sometimes a vision is something a person sees in a dream while asleep.
God sends visions to tell people something that is very important. For example, Peter was shown a vision to tell him that God wanted him to welcome Gentiles.

Translation Suggestion

The phrase "saw a vision" could be translated as "saw something unusual from God" or "God showed him something special."
Some languages may not have separate words for "vision" and "dream." So a sentence such as "Daniel had dreams and visions in his mind" could be translated as something like "Daniel was dreaming while asleep and God caused him to see unusual things."

(See also: dream)

Bible References:

Acts 09:10-12
Acts 10:3-6
Acts 10:11
Acts 12:9-10
Luke 01:22
Luke 24:23
Matthew 17:9-10

Word Data:

Strong's: H2372, H2376, H2377, H2378, H2380, H2384, H4236, H4758, H4759, H7203, H7723, H8602, G3701, G3705, G3706

Forms Found in the English ULB:

vision, visions

walk

Definition:

The term "walk" is often used in a figurative sense to mean "live."

"Enoch walked with God" means that Enoch lived in a close relationship with God.
To "walk by the Spirit" means to be guided by the Holy Spirit so that we do things that please and honor God.
To "walk in" God's commands or God's ways means to "live in obedience to" his commands, that is, to "obey his commands" or "do his will."
When God says he will "walk among" his people, it means that he is living among them or closely interacting with them.
To "walk contrary to" means to live or behave in a way that is against something or someone.
To "walk after" means to seek or pursue someone or something. It can also mean to act in the same way as someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate "walk" literally, as long as the correct meaning will be understood.
Otherwise, figurative uses of "walk" could also be translated by "live" or "act" or "behave."
The phrase "walk by the Spirit" could be translated by, "live in obedience to the Holy Spirit" or "behave in a way that is pleasing to the Holy Spirit" or "do things that are pleasing to God as the Holy Spirit guides you."
To "walk in God's commands" could be translated by "live by God's commands" or "obey God's commands."
The phrase "walked with God" could be translated as, "lived in close relationship with God by obeying and honoring him."

(See also: Holy Spirit, honor)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Kings 02:04
Colossians 02:07
Galatians 05:25
Genesis 17:01
Isaiah 02:05
Jeremiah 13:10
Micah 04:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H1869, H1980, H1981, H3212, H4108, G1704, G4043, G4748

Forms Found in the English ULB:

walk, walk around, walked, walking, walking around, walks

walk

Definition:

The term "walk" is often used in a figurative sense to mean "live."

"Enoch walked with God" means that Enoch lived in a close relationship with God.
To "walk by the Spirit" means to be guided by the Holy Spirit so that we do things that please and honor God.
To "walk in" God's commands or God's ways means to "live in obedience to" his commands, that is, to "obey his commands" or "do his will."
When God says he will "walk among" his people, it means that he is living among them or closely interacting with them.
To "walk contrary to" means to live or behave in a way that is against something or someone.
To "walk after" means to seek or pursue someone or something. It can also mean to act in the same way as someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate "walk" literally, as long as the correct meaning will be understood.
Otherwise, figurative uses of "walk" could also be translated by "live" or "act" or "behave."
The phrase "walk by the Spirit" could be translated by, "live in obedience to the Holy Spirit" or "behave in a way that is pleasing to the Holy Spirit" or "do things that are pleasing to God as the Holy Spirit guides you."
To "walk in God's commands" could be translated by "live by God's commands" or "obey God's commands."
The phrase "walked with God" could be translated as, "lived in close relationship with God by obeying and honoring him."

(See also: Holy Spirit, honor)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Kings 02:04
Colossians 02:07
Galatians 05:25
Genesis 17:01
Isaiah 02:05
Jeremiah 13:10
Micah 04:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H1869, H1980, H1981, H3212, H4108, G1704, G4043, G4748

Forms Found in the English ULB:

walk, walk around, walked, walking, walking around, walks

walk

Definition:

The term "walk" is often used in a figurative sense to mean "live."

"Enoch walked with God" means that Enoch lived in a close relationship with God.
To "walk by the Spirit" means to be guided by the Holy Spirit so that we do things that please and honor God.
To "walk in" God's commands or God's ways means to "live in obedience to" his commands, that is, to "obey his commands" or "do his will."
When God says he will "walk among" his people, it means that he is living among them or closely interacting with them.
To "walk contrary to" means to live or behave in a way that is against something or someone.
To "walk after" means to seek or pursue someone or something. It can also mean to act in the same way as someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate "walk" literally, as long as the correct meaning will be understood.
Otherwise, figurative uses of "walk" could also be translated by "live" or "act" or "behave."
The phrase "walk by the Spirit" could be translated by, "live in obedience to the Holy Spirit" or "behave in a way that is pleasing to the Holy Spirit" or "do things that are pleasing to God as the Holy Spirit guides you."
To "walk in God's commands" could be translated by "live by God's commands" or "obey God's commands."
The phrase "walked with God" could be translated as, "lived in close relationship with God by obeying and honoring him."

(See also: Holy Spirit, honor)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Kings 02:04
Colossians 02:07
Galatians 05:25
Genesis 17:01
Isaiah 02:05
Jeremiah 13:10
Micah 04:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H1869, H1980, H1981, H3212, H4108, G1704, G4043, G4748

Forms Found in the English ULB:

walk, walk around, walked, walking, walking around, walks

walk

Definition:

The term "walk" is often used in a figurative sense to mean "live."

"Enoch walked with God" means that Enoch lived in a close relationship with God.
To "walk by the Spirit" means to be guided by the Holy Spirit so that we do things that please and honor God.
To "walk in" God's commands or God's ways means to "live in obedience to" his commands, that is, to "obey his commands" or "do his will."
When God says he will "walk among" his people, it means that he is living among them or closely interacting with them.
To "walk contrary to" means to live or behave in a way that is against something or someone.
To "walk after" means to seek or pursue someone or something. It can also mean to act in the same way as someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

It is best to translate "walk" literally, as long as the correct meaning will be understood.
Otherwise, figurative uses of "walk" could also be translated by "live" or "act" or "behave."
The phrase "walk by the Spirit" could be translated by, "live in obedience to the Holy Spirit" or "behave in a way that is pleasing to the Holy Spirit" or "do things that are pleasing to God as the Holy Spirit guides you."
To "walk in God's commands" could be translated by "live by God's commands" or "obey God's commands."
The phrase "walked with God" could be translated as, "lived in close relationship with God by obeying and honoring him."

(See also: Holy Spirit, honor)

Bible References:

1 John 01:07
1 Kings 02:04
Colossians 02:07
Galatians 05:25
Genesis 17:01
Isaiah 02:05
Jeremiah 13:10
Micah 04:02

Word Data:

Strong's: H1869, H1980, H1981, H3212, H4108, G1704, G4043, G4748

Forms Found in the English ULB:

walk, walk around, walked, walking, walking around, walks

water

Definition:

In addition to its primary meaning, "water" also often refers to a body of water, such as an ocean, sea, lake, or river.

The term "waters" refers to bodies of water or many sources of water.
The term "waters" can also be a general reference to a large amount of water.
To "water" livestock and other animals means to provide water for them. In Bible times, this usually involved drawing water from a well with a bucket and pouring the water into a trough or other container for the animals to drink from.
The phrase "draw water" means "pull water up from a well with a bucket."

Translation Suggestions:

"Streams of living water will flow from them" could be translated as "the power and blessings from the Holy Spirit will flow out of them them like streams of water." Instead of "blessings" the term "gifts" or "fruits" or "godly character" could be used.
When Jesus is talking to the Samaritan woman at the well, the phrase "living water" could be translated as "water that gives life" or "lifegiving water." In this context, the imagery of water must be kept in the translation.
Depending on the context, the term "waters" or "many waters" could be translated as "great suffering (that surrounds you like water)" or "overwhelming difficulties (like a flood of water)" or "large amounts of water."

(See also: life, spirit, Holy Spirit, power)

Bible References:

Acts 08:36-38
Exodus 14:21
John 04:10
John 04:14
John 04:15
Matthew 14:28-30

Word Data:

Strong's: H2222, H3384, H4325, H4857, H7301, H7783, H8248, G504, G4215, G4222, G5202, G5204

Forms Found in the English ULB:

water, watered, watering, waters

well

Related Ideas:

cistern

Definition:

The terms "well" and "cistern" refer to two different kinds of sources for water in Bible times.

A well is a deep hole dug into the ground so that underground water can flow into it.
A cistern is a deep hole dug into rock that was used as a holding tank for collecting rain water.
Cisterns were usually dug into rock and sealed with plaster to keep the water in. A "broken cistern" happened when the plaster became cracked so that the water leaked out.
Cisterns were often located in the courtyard area of people's homes to catch the rainwater that would run off the roof.
Wells were often located where they could be accessed by several families or a whole community.
Because water was very important for both people and livestock, the right to use a well was often a cause of strife and conflict.
Both wells and cisterns were usually covered with a large stone to prevent anything falling in it. Often there was a rope with a bucket or pot attached to it to bring the water up to the surface.
Sometimes a dry cistern was used as a place to imprison someone, such as happened to Joseph and Jeremiah.
These terms are similar in meaning. The main difference is that a well continually receives water from underground springs, whereas a cistern is a holding tank for water that usually comes from rain.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "well" could include "deep water hole" or "deep hole for spring water" or "deep hole for drawing water."
The term "cistern" could be translated as "stone water pit" or "deep and narrow pit for water" or "underground tank for holding water."

(See also: Jeremiah, prison, strife)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 11:17
2 Samuel 17:17-18
Genesis 16:14
Luke 14:4-6
Numbers 20:17

Word Data:

Strong's: H875, H953, H1360, H4002, H4599, H4726, H4841, G4077, G5421

Forms Found in the English ULB:

cistern, cisterns, well, wells

well

Related Ideas:

cistern

Definition:

The terms "well" and "cistern" refer to two different kinds of sources for water in Bible times.

A well is a deep hole dug into the ground so that underground water can flow into it.
A cistern is a deep hole dug into rock that was used as a holding tank for collecting rain water.
Cisterns were usually dug into rock and sealed with plaster to keep the water in. A "broken cistern" happened when the plaster became cracked so that the water leaked out.
Cisterns were often located in the courtyard area of people's homes to catch the rainwater that would run off the roof.
Wells were often located where they could be accessed by several families or a whole community.
Because water was very important for both people and livestock, the right to use a well was often a cause of strife and conflict.
Both wells and cisterns were usually covered with a large stone to prevent anything falling in it. Often there was a rope with a bucket or pot attached to it to bring the water up to the surface.
Sometimes a dry cistern was used as a place to imprison someone, such as happened to Joseph and Jeremiah.
These terms are similar in meaning. The main difference is that a well continually receives water from underground springs, whereas a cistern is a holding tank for water that usually comes from rain.

Translation Suggestions:

Ways to translate "well" could include "deep water hole" or "deep hole for spring water" or "deep hole for drawing water."
The term "cistern" could be translated as "stone water pit" or "deep and narrow pit for water" or "underground tank for holding water."

(See also: Jeremiah, prison, strife)

Bible References:

1 Chronicles 11:17
2 Samuel 17:17-18
Genesis 16:14
Luke 14:4-6
Numbers 20:17

Word Data:

Strong's: H875, H953, H1360, H4002, H4599, H4726, H4841, G4077, G5421

Forms Found in the English ULB:

cistern, cisterns, well, wells

will of God

Related Ideas:

God's will, desire of God, he wishes, his will, will of my Father, will of our God and Father, will of the Lord

Definition:

The "will of God" refers to God's desires and plans.

God's will especially relates to his interactions with people and how he wants people to respond to him.
It also refers to his plans or desires for the rest of his creation.
The term to "will" means to "determine" or to "desire."

Translation Suggestions:

The "will of God" could also be translated as "what God desires" or "what God has planned" or "God's purpose" or "what is pleasing to God."

Bible References:

1 John 02:15-17
1 Thessalonians 04:3-6
Colossians 04:12-14
Ephesians 01:1-2
John 05:30-32
Mark 03:33-35
Matthew 06:8-10
Psalms 103:21

Word Data:

Strong's: H6634, H7522, G1012, G1013, G2307, G2308, G2309

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God's will, desires of God, he desires, he wishes, his will, will of God, will of my Father, will of our God and Father, will of the Lord, will of your Father, you are willing, your will

word

Definition:

A "word" refers to something that someone has said. In the Bible, it almost always refers to an entire message, not just one word.

An example of this is when the angel told Zechariah, "You did not believe my words," which means, "You did not believe what I said."
Sometimes "word" refers to speech in general, such as "powerful in word and deed" which means "powerful in speech and behavior."
Often in the Bible "the word" refers to everything God has said or commanded, as in "the word of God" or "the word of truth."
A very special use of this term is when Jesus is called "the Word." For these last two meanings, see word of God

Translation Suggestions:

Different ways of translating "word" or "words" include "teaching" or "message" or "news" or "a saying" or "what was said."

(See also: word of God)

Bible References:

2 Timothy 04:02
Acts 08:04
Colossians 04:03
James 01:18
Jeremiah 27:04
John 01:03
John 01:14
Luke 08:15
Matthew 02:08
Matthew 07:27

Word Data:

Strong's: H561, H562, H565, H1697, H1703, H2656, H2706, H4405, H4406, H7878, H8052, G518, G1024, G1310, G3054, G3055, G3056, G4086, G4487, G5023, G5537, G5542

Forms Found in the English ULB:

word, words, message, messages

word

Definition:

A "word" refers to something that someone has said. In the Bible, it almost always refers to an entire message, not just one word.

An example of this is when the angel told Zechariah, "You did not believe my words," which means, "You did not believe what I said."
Sometimes "word" refers to speech in general, such as "powerful in word and deed" which means "powerful in speech and behavior."
Often in the Bible "the word" refers to everything God has said or commanded, as in "the word of God" or "the word of truth."
A very special use of this term is when Jesus is called "the Word." For these last two meanings, see word of God

Translation Suggestions:

Different ways of translating "word" or "words" include "teaching" or "message" or "news" or "a saying" or "what was said."

(See also: word of God)

Bible References:

2 Timothy 04:02
Acts 08:04
Colossians 04:03
James 01:18
Jeremiah 27:04
John 01:03
John 01:14
Luke 08:15
Matthew 02:08
Matthew 07:27

Word Data:

Strong's: H561, H562, H565, H1697, H1703, H2656, H2706, H4405, H4406, H7878, H8052, G518, G1024, G1310, G3054, G3055, G3056, G4086, G4487, G5023, G5537, G5542

Forms Found in the English ULB:

word, words, message, messages

word

Definition:

A "word" refers to something that someone has said. In the Bible, it almost always refers to an entire message, not just one word.

An example of this is when the angel told Zechariah, "You did not believe my words," which means, "You did not believe what I said."
Sometimes "word" refers to speech in general, such as "powerful in word and deed" which means "powerful in speech and behavior."
Often in the Bible "the word" refers to everything God has said or commanded, as in "the word of God" or "the word of truth."
A very special use of this term is when Jesus is called "the Word." For these last two meanings, see word of God

Translation Suggestions:

Different ways of translating "word" or "words" include "teaching" or "message" or "news" or "a saying" or "what was said."

(See also: word of God)

Bible References:

2 Timothy 04:02
Acts 08:04
Colossians 04:03
James 01:18
Jeremiah 27:04
John 01:03
John 01:14
Luke 08:15
Matthew 02:08
Matthew 07:27

Word Data:

Strong's: H561, H562, H565, H1697, H1703, H2656, H2706, H4405, H4406, H7878, H8052, G518, G1024, G1310, G3054, G3055, G3056, G4086, G4487, G5023, G5537, G5542

Forms Found in the English ULB:

word, words, message, messages

word of God

Related Ideas:

God's word, his words, my word, scripture, word of Yahweh, word of the Lord, word of truth, writings

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "word of God" refers to anything that God has communicated to people. This includes spoken and written messages. Jesus is also called "the Word of God."

The term "scriptures" means "writings." It is only used in the New Testament and refers to the Hebrew scriptures, which is the Old Testament. These writings were God's message that he had told people to write down so that many years in the future people could still read it.
The related terms "word of Yahweh" and "word of the Lord" often refer to a specific message from God that was given to a prophet or other person in the Bible.
Sometimes this term occurs as simply "the word" or "my word" or "your word" (when talking about God's word).
In the New Testament, Jesus is called "the Word" and "the Word of God." These titles mean that Jesus fully reveals who God is, because he is God himself.

The term "word of truth" is another way of referring to "God's word," which is his message or teaching. It does not refer to just one word.

God's word of truth includes everything that God has taught people about himself, his creation, and his plan of salvation through Jesus.
This term emphasizes the fact that what God has told us is true, faithful, and real.

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "the message of Yahweh" or "God's message" or "the teachings from God."
It may be more natural in some languages to make this term plural and say "God's words" or "the words of Yahweh."
The expression "the word of Yahweh came" is often used to introduce something that God told his prophets or his people. This could be translated as "Yahweh spoke this message" or "Yahweh spoke these words."
The term "scripture" or "scriptures" could be translated as "the writings" or "the written message from God." This term should be translated differently from the translation of the term "word."
When "word" occurs alone and it refers to God's word, it could be translated as "the message" or "God's word" or "the teachings." Also consider the alternate translations suggested above.
When the Bible refers to Jesus as "the Word," this term could be translated as "the Message" or "the Truth."
"Word of truth" could be translated as "God's true message" or "God's word, which is true."
It is important for the translation of this term to include the meaning of being true.

(See also: prophet, true, word, Yahweh)

Bible References:

Genesis 15:01
1 Kings 13:01
Jeremiah 36:1-3
Luke 08:11
John 05:39
Acts 06:02
Acts 12:24
Romans 01:02
2 Corinthians 06:07
Ephesians 01:13
2 Timothy 03:16
James 01:18
James 02:8-9

Word Data:

Strong's: H561, H565, H1697, H3068, G3056, G4487

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God's word, God's words, his words, my word, scripture, scriptures, word of God, word of Yahweh, word of the Lord, word of truth, words of God, writings

work

Related Ideas:

act, deed, fellow worker

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "work," "deed," and "act" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

God's "works" and the "work of his hands" are expressions that refer to all the things he does or has done, including creating the world, saving sinners, providing for the needs of all creation and keeping the entire universe in place. The terms "deeds" and "acts" are also used to refer to God's miracles in expressions such as "mighty acts" or "marvelous deeds."
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to do good works, which are also called "good fruit."
The term "work" can also refer to "service" or "ministry."
People are not saved by their good works; they are saved through faith in Jesus.
The term "fellow worker" means someone who does a ministry along with someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways to translate "works" or "deeds" could be "actions" or "things that are done."
When referring to God's "works" or "deeds" and the "work of his hands," these expressions could also be translated as "miracles" or "mighty acts" or "amazing things he does."
The expression "the work of God" could be translated as "the things that God is doing" or "the miracles God does" or "the amazing things that God does" or "everything God has accomplished."
The expression "your work in the Lord" could also be translated as "what you do for the Lord."
The expression "examine your own work" could also be translated as "make sure what you are doing is God's will" or "make sure that what you are doing pleases God."
The expression "the work of the Holy Spirit" could be translated as "the empowering of the Holy Spirit" or "the ministry of the Holy Spirit" or "the things that the Holy Spirit does."

(See also: fruit, Holy Spirit, miracle)

Bible References:

1 John 03:12
Acts 02:8-11
Daniel 04:37
Exodus 34:10-11
Galatians 02:15-16
James 02:17
Matthew 16:27-28
Micah 02:07
Romans 03:28
Titus 03:4-5

Word Data:

Strong's: H1576, H4399, H4566, H4567, H4611, H4639, H4659, H5673, H5949, H5998, H6213, H6466, H6468, G1754, G2038, G2040, G2041, G2716, G3173

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act, action, actions, activities, acts, deed, deeds, fellow worker, fellow workers, work, works

work

Related Ideas:

act, deed, fellow worker

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "work," "deed," and "act" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

God's "works" and the "work of his hands" are expressions that refer to all the things he does or has done, including creating the world, saving sinners, providing for the needs of all creation and keeping the entire universe in place. The terms "deeds" and "acts" are also used to refer to God's miracles in expressions such as "mighty acts" or "marvelous deeds."
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to do good works, which are also called "good fruit."
The term "work" can also refer to "service" or "ministry."
People are not saved by their good works; they are saved through faith in Jesus.
The term "fellow worker" means someone who does a ministry along with someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways to translate "works" or "deeds" could be "actions" or "things that are done."
When referring to God's "works" or "deeds" and the "work of his hands," these expressions could also be translated as "miracles" or "mighty acts" or "amazing things he does."
The expression "the work of God" could be translated as "the things that God is doing" or "the miracles God does" or "the amazing things that God does" or "everything God has accomplished."
The expression "your work in the Lord" could also be translated as "what you do for the Lord."
The expression "examine your own work" could also be translated as "make sure what you are doing is God's will" or "make sure that what you are doing pleases God."
The expression "the work of the Holy Spirit" could be translated as "the empowering of the Holy Spirit" or "the ministry of the Holy Spirit" or "the things that the Holy Spirit does."

(See also: fruit, Holy Spirit, miracle)

Bible References:

1 John 03:12
Acts 02:8-11
Daniel 04:37
Exodus 34:10-11
Galatians 02:15-16
James 02:17
Matthew 16:27-28
Micah 02:07
Romans 03:28
Titus 03:4-5

Word Data:

Strong's: H1576, H4399, H4566, H4567, H4611, H4639, H4659, H5673, H5949, H5998, H6213, H6466, H6468, G1754, G2038, G2040, G2041, G2716, G3173

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act, action, actions, activities, acts, deed, deeds, fellow worker, fellow workers, work, works

work

Related Ideas:

act, deed, fellow worker

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "work," "deed," and "act" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

God's "works" and the "work of his hands" are expressions that refer to all the things he does or has done, including creating the world, saving sinners, providing for the needs of all creation and keeping the entire universe in place. The terms "deeds" and "acts" are also used to refer to God's miracles in expressions such as "mighty acts" or "marvelous deeds."
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to do good works, which are also called "good fruit."
The term "work" can also refer to "service" or "ministry."
People are not saved by their good works; they are saved through faith in Jesus.
The term "fellow worker" means someone who does a ministry along with someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

Other ways to translate "works" or "deeds" could be "actions" or "things that are done."
When referring to God's "works" or "deeds" and the "work of his hands," these expressions could also be translated as "miracles" or "mighty acts" or "amazing things he does."
The expression "the work of God" could be translated as "the things that God is doing" or "the miracles God does" or "the amazing things that God does" or "everything God has accomplished."
The expression "your work in the Lord" could also be translated as "what you do for the Lord."
The expression "examine your own work" could also be translated as "make sure what you are doing is God's will" or "make sure that what you are doing pleases God."
The expression "the work of the Holy Spirit" could be translated as "the empowering of the Holy Spirit" or "the ministry of the Holy Spirit" or "the things that the Holy Spirit does."

(See also: fruit, Holy Spirit, miracle)

Bible References:

1 John 03:12
Acts 02:8-11
Daniel 04:37
Exodus 34:10-11
Galatians 02:15-16
James 02:17
Matthew 16:27-28
Micah 02:07
Romans 03:28
Titus 03:4-5

Word Data:

Strong's: H1576, H4399, H4566, H4567, H4611, H4639, H4659, H5673, H5949, H5998, H6213, H6466, H6468, G1754, G2038, G2040, G2041, G2716, G3173

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act, action, actions, activities, acts, deed, deeds, fellow worker, fellow workers, work, works

world

Related Ideas:

universe, worldly

Definition:

The term "world" usually refers to the part of the universe where people live: the earth. The term "worldly" describes the evil values and behaviors of people living in this world.

In its most general sense, the term "world" refers to the heavens and the earth, as well as everything in them.
In many contexts, "world" actually means "people in the world."
Sometimes it is implied that this refers to the evil people on earth or the people who do not obey God.
The apostles also used "world" to refer to the selfish behaviors and corrupt values of the people living in this world. This can include self-righteous religious practices which are based on human efforts.
People and things characterized by these values are said to be "worldly."

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "world" could also be translated as "universe" or "people of this world" or "corrupt things in the world" or "evil attitudes of people in the world."
The phrase "all the world" often means "many people" and refers to the people living in a certain region. For example, "all the world came to Egypt" could be translated as "many people from the surrounding countries came to Egypt" or "people from all the countries surrounding Egypt came there."
Another way to translate "all the world went to their hometown to be registered in the Roman census" would be "many of the people living in regions ruled by the Roman empire went..."
Depending on the context, the term "worldly" could be translated as, "evil" or "sinful" or "selfish" or "ungodly" or "corrupt" or "influenced by the corrupt values of people in this world."
The phrase "saying these things in the world" can be translated as "saying these things to the people of the world."
In other contexts, "in the world" could also be translated as "living among the people of the world" or "living among ungodly people."

(See also: corrupt, heaven, Rome, godly)

Bible References:

1 John 02:15
1 John 04:05
1 John 05:05
John 01:29
Matthew 13:36-39

Word Data:

Strong's: H776, H2309, H2465, H2717, H5769, H8398, G165, G1093, G2886, G2889, G3625

Forms Found in the English ULB:

universe, world, world's, worldly

world

Related Ideas:

universe, worldly

Definition:

The term "world" usually refers to the part of the universe where people live: the earth. The term "worldly" describes the evil values and behaviors of people living in this world.

In its most general sense, the term "world" refers to the heavens and the earth, as well as everything in them.
In many contexts, "world" actually means "people in the world."
Sometimes it is implied that this refers to the evil people on earth or the people who do not obey God.
The apostles also used "world" to refer to the selfish behaviors and corrupt values of the people living in this world. This can include self-righteous religious practices which are based on human efforts.
People and things characterized by these values are said to be "worldly."

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "world" could also be translated as "universe" or "people of this world" or "corrupt things in the world" or "evil attitudes of people in the world."
The phrase "all the world" often means "many people" and refers to the people living in a certain region. For example, "all the world came to Egypt" could be translated as "many people from the surrounding countries came to Egypt" or "people from all the countries surrounding Egypt came there."
Another way to translate "all the world went to their hometown to be registered in the Roman census" would be "many of the people living in regions ruled by the Roman empire went..."
Depending on the context, the term "worldly" could be translated as, "evil" or "sinful" or "selfish" or "ungodly" or "corrupt" or "influenced by the corrupt values of people in this world."
The phrase "saying these things in the world" can be translated as "saying these things to the people of the world."
In other contexts, "in the world" could also be translated as "living among the people of the world" or "living among ungodly people."

(See also: corrupt, heaven, Rome, godly)

Bible References:

1 John 02:15
1 John 04:05
1 John 05:05
John 01:29
Matthew 13:36-39

Word Data:

Strong's: H776, H2309, H2465, H2717, H5769, H8398, G165, G1093, G2886, G2889, G3625

Forms Found in the English ULB:

universe, world, world's, worldly

world

Related Ideas:

universe, worldly

Definition:

The term "world" usually refers to the part of the universe where people live: the earth. The term "worldly" describes the evil values and behaviors of people living in this world.

In its most general sense, the term "world" refers to the heavens and the earth, as well as everything in them.
In many contexts, "world" actually means "people in the world."
Sometimes it is implied that this refers to the evil people on earth or the people who do not obey God.
The apostles also used "world" to refer to the selfish behaviors and corrupt values of the people living in this world. This can include self-righteous religious practices which are based on human efforts.
People and things characterized by these values are said to be "worldly."

Translation Suggestions:

Depending on the context, "world" could also be translated as "universe" or "people of this world" or "corrupt things in the world" or "evil attitudes of people in the world."
The phrase "all the world" often means "many people" and refers to the people living in a certain region. For example, "all the world came to Egypt" could be translated as "many people from the surrounding countries came to Egypt" or "people from all the countries surrounding Egypt came there."
Another way to translate "all the world went to their hometown to be registered in the Roman census" would be "many of the people living in regions ruled by the Roman empire went..."
Depending on the context, the term "worldly" could be translated as, "evil" or "sinful" or "selfish" or "ungodly" or "corrupt" or "influenced by the corrupt values of people in this world."
The phrase "saying these things in the world" can be translated as "saying these things to the people of the world."
In other contexts, "in the world" could also be translated as "living among the people of the world" or "living among ungodly people."

(See also: corrupt, heaven, Rome, godly)

Bible References:

1 John 02:15
1 John 04:05
1 John 05:05
John 01:29
Matthew 13:36-39

Word Data:

Strong's: H776, H2309, H2465, H2717, H5769, H8398, G165, G1093, G2886, G2889, G3625

Forms Found in the English ULB:

universe, world, world's, worldly

worthy

Related Ideas:

deserve, nullify, unworthy, worth, worthily, worthless, worthlessness, worthy

Definition:

The term "worthy" describes someone or something that deserves respect or honor. To "have worth" means to be valuable or important.

Being "worthy" is related to being valuable or having importance.
To do something "worthily" means to do something in a worthy way.
To be "unworthy" means to not be deserving of any honor or recognition.
To be "worthless" means to not have any purpose or value.
To "nullify" something is to make it worth nothing.

Translation Suggestions:

"Worthy" could be translated as "deserving" or "important" or "valuable."
The word "worth" could be translated as "value" or "importance."
The phrase to "have worth" could also be translated as to "be valuable" or to "be important."
The phrase "is worth more than" could be translated as "is more valuable than."
Depending on the context, the term, "unworthy" could also be translated as "unimportant" or "dishonorable" or "undeserving."
The term "worthless" could be translated as "with no value" or "with no purpose" or "worth nothing."

(See also: honor)

Bible References:

2 Samuel 22:04
2 Thessalonians 01:11-12
Acts 13:25
Acts 25:25-27
Acts 26:31
Colossians 01:9-10
Jeremiah 08:19
Mark 01:07
Matthew 03:10-12
Philippians 01:25-27

Word Data:

Strong's: H457, H1100, H2428, H3276, H3644, H4242, H4373, H4392, H4592, H4941, H5541, H6994, H7385, H7386, H7723, H7939, H8602, G96, G514, G515, G516, G888, G1777, G2425, G2480, G2661, G3152, G4186, G5092

Forms Found in the English ULB:

deserve, deserved, deserves, deserving, nullify, unworthy, worth, worthily, worthless, worthlessness, worthy