Biblical Definitions for Biblical Terms

When we use biblical definitions for biblical terminology we equip our minds to think biblically. And when we are thinking biblically we tend to act biblically. 

When we use unbiblical definitions for biblical terms, we train our minds to think unbiblically and thus start to act unbiblically. 

For example the term “pride” in our culture is a virtue, when applied to self. We are told to be proud of ourselves, there are pride parades, etc. 

But in the Bible the term pride, when applied to self, is a vice. Pride is a sin. To be proud, or proud of yourself, is a strong negative. 

“All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
— 1 Peter 5:5

In God’s Word and eyes, humility is the virtue, not pride. 

So as much as is possible, let’s use biblical definitions for biblical terms. 

Note:

Greek scholar Kenneth Wuest in his Word Studies states of 1 Peter 5:5 “The word “proud” is the translation of a Greek word which means literally “to show above,” and thus describes the proud person as one who shows himself above others. 

The word “humble” is the translation of the Greek word rendered “lowly” in Matthew 11:29, where it describes our Lord’s character. The word is found in an early secular document where it speaks of the Nile River in its low stage in the words, “It runs low.” The word means “not rising far from the ground.” It describes the Christian who follows in the humble and lowly steps of his Lord.”