Topical Encyclopedia The term "foregoing" generally refers to the act of abstaining from or giving up something. In a biblical context, foregoing can be understood as a voluntary act of self-denial or sacrifice for a higher spiritual purpose. This concept is often associated with fasting, self-discipline, and the pursuit of holiness.Fasting and Self-Denial Fasting is one of the most direct examples of foregoing in the Bible. It involves abstaining from food and sometimes drink to focus on prayer and spiritual growth. Jesus Himself practiced fasting, as seen in Matthew 4:2: "After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry." This act of foregoing physical sustenance was a preparation for His ministry and a demonstration of reliance on God. The Apostle Paul also speaks to the idea of foregoing in the context of self-discipline. In 1 Corinthians 9:27, he writes, "No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of foregoing personal desires to maintain spiritual integrity and effectiveness in ministry. Foregoing for the Sake of Others The Bible also presents foregoing as an act of love and consideration for others. In Romans 14:21, Paul advises, "It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything to cause your brother to stumble." This passage highlights the principle of foregoing personal freedoms to prevent causing spiritual harm to others, reflecting a selfless love that prioritizes the well-being of fellow believers. Material Possessions and Wealth Foregoing is also evident in the teachings of Jesus regarding material possessions. In Matthew 19:21, Jesus tells the rich young ruler, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." This call to forego earthly wealth is a challenge to prioritize spiritual riches over material gain. Spiritual Growth and Holiness The act of foregoing is often linked to the pursuit of holiness and spiritual maturity. Hebrews 12:1 encourages believers to "lay aside every weight, and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us." This involves foregoing anything that hinders spiritual progress, emphasizing the need for intentional self-denial in the Christian walk. Conclusion In summary, the concept of foregoing in the Bible encompasses a range of practices and attitudes, from fasting and self-discipline to the relinquishment of personal rights and material possessions. It is a demonstration of commitment to God, love for others, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Forego.Library The Proof of the Foregoing the Trinity of Persons in one God... But in Addition to the Foregoing Rule, which Guards us against ... Answer to the Foregoing Arguments. Whether the Foregoing Prayer is a Suitable Form for this Sacrament ... He Adds to the Foregoing the Testimony of S. Jerome. The Fraud of the Foregoing Practices; their Connection with Heresy ... Use of the Foregoing Discussions. While the Foregoing Scene was Taking Place at the Vatican... Letter cxvi. (Enclosed in the Foregoing Letter. ) According to the Foregoing, Then, the one Kind of Wisdom is Human. ... Thesaurus Foregoing (1 Occurrence)...Foregoing (1 Occurrence). Hebrews 7:18 For there is an annulling of a foregoing commandment because of its weakness and uselessness (WEB ASV). ... /f/foregoing.htm - 6k Theocracy Amulet Manasses (1 Occurrence) Genealogy (29 Occurrences) Esdras Quotations Forehead (23 Occurrences) Vile (59 Occurrences) Villany (4 Occurrences) Resources Is the Bible a fairy tale? | GotQuestions.orgForegoing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Foregoing (1 Occurrence)Hebrews 7:18 Subtopics Related Terms |