Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, "consulting" often refers to seeking guidance, advice, or information from various sources, whether divine, human, or otherwise. The act of consulting can be seen throughout Scripture, with both positive and negative connotations depending on the source and intent of the consultation.Consulting God The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of consulting God for guidance and wisdom. This is often done through prayer, seeking His will, and studying His Word. In the Old Testament, leaders and prophets regularly sought God's counsel. For example, King David is noted for inquiring of the Lord before making significant decisions. In 1 Samuel 23:2, David asks God, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?" and the Lord responds affirmatively. The practice of consulting God is encouraged throughout Scripture. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This passage underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance rather than relying solely on human wisdom. Consulting Prophets and Wise Counselors In addition to direct consultation with God, the Bible also records instances where individuals sought the counsel of prophets and wise advisors. Prophets served as God's spokespeople, delivering His messages to the people. For example, King Hezekiah consulted the prophet Isaiah during a time of crisis (2 Kings 19:1-7). The value of wise counsel is also highlighted in Proverbs. Proverbs 11:14 states, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance." This suggests that seeking advice from godly and wise individuals is beneficial and can lead to success and safety. Consulting Mediums and False Prophets Conversely, the Bible strongly condemns consulting mediums, spiritists, and false prophets. Such practices are seen as detestable to God and are strictly forbidden. In Leviticus 19:31 , the Israelites are commanded, "Do not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out to be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God." King Saul's consultation with the medium of Endor is a notable example of disobedience in this regard. In 1 Samuel 28, Saul seeks out a medium to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel, an act that ultimately leads to his downfall. This narrative illustrates the dangers and spiritual consequences of seeking guidance from ungodly sources. Consulting in the New Testament In the New Testament, the practice of consulting continues, with a focus on seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The early church often sought the Spirit's direction in decision-making. In Acts 13:2-3 , the church in Antioch fasts and prays before the Holy Spirit instructs them to set apart Barnabas and Saul for missionary work. The New Testament also warns against false teachers and prophets, urging believers to test the spirits and hold fast to sound doctrine. In 1 John 4:1 , believers are instructed, "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." Overall, the biblical perspective on consulting emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and the counsel of godly individuals while avoiding ungodly and deceptive sources. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Consult.Greek 394. anatithemi -- to set up, set forth ... Definition: I lay a case before, impart, communicate, relate Definition: I lay (a case) before, impart, communicate, declare, relate (with a view to consulting ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/394.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 7592. shaal -- to ask, inquire... Usage ask (45), asked (41), asking (5), asks (5), beg (1), begged (1), begs (1), borrow (1), borrowed (1), borrows (1), consult (2), consulting (1), consults (1 ... /hebrew/7592.htm - 6k Library The Emperor Consulting an Oracle, the Demon Gives no Response ... Index to Preachers and Sermons A Short Account of the Origin of Methodism in England General Conclusion. Letter ccliv. To Benenatus Whether an Angel Speaks to God? Whether There Can be Venial Sin in the Higher Reason as Directing ... Whether the Sin of Consent to the Act is in the Higher Reason? The Oracles. Essay Thesaurus Consulting (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Consulting (3 Occurrences). ... Proverbs 16:30 Consulting his eyes to devise froward things, Moving his lips he hath accomplished evil. ... /c/consulting.htm - 7k Consult (27 Occurrences) Astrology Consulteth (7 Occurrences) Divination (25 Occurrences) Kerchief Urim (8 Occurrences) Familiar (35 Occurrences) Thummim (6 Occurrences) Magic (12 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about decision-making? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the “spirit of prostitution” in Hosea 4:12? | GotQuestions.org Should Christians go to doctors? | GotQuestions.org Consulting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Consulting (3 Occurrences)Matthew 27:7 Proverbs 16:30 Isaiah 30:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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