Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "hinders" refers to obstacles or impediments that prevent or delay progress, particularly in spiritual growth or the fulfillment of God's purposes. The concept of hindrance is addressed in various passages, highlighting both external and internal factors that can obstruct one's relationship with God and the pursuit of His will.Biblical References: 1. Galatians 5:7 : "You were running so well. Who has hindered you from obeying the truth?" In this passage, the Apostle Paul addresses the Galatian church, expressing concern that they have been hindered in their spiritual journey. The hindrance here is attributed to false teachings and influences that have led them away from the truth of the Gospel. 2. 1 Thessalonians 2:18 : "For we wanted to come to you—indeed I, Paul, tried again and again—but Satan hindered us." Paul speaks of a direct spiritual hindrance, attributing the obstruction of his plans to visit the Thessalonians to the work of Satan. This highlights the belief in spiritual warfare and the reality of opposition from evil forces. 3. Romans 15:22 : "This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you." Paul explains to the Roman believers that his missionary work and responsibilities have delayed his visit to them. Here, the hindrance is due to the demands of ministry and the necessity of prioritizing the spread of the Gospel. Theological Implications: Hindrances in the Christian life can be both spiritual and practical. They may arise from external sources, such as persecution, false teachings, or spiritual opposition, as well as internal sources, such as sin, doubt, or fear. The Bible encourages believers to recognize and overcome these hindrances through faith, perseverance, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Practical Applications: 1. Discernment: Christians are called to discern the sources of hindrances in their lives, whether they stem from spiritual attacks, worldly distractions, or personal weaknesses. This discernment is crucial for maintaining a steadfast walk with God. 2. Prayer and Spiritual Warfare: Believers are encouraged to engage in prayer and spiritual warfare to overcome hindrances. Ephesians 6:12-18 emphasizes the importance of putting on the full armor of God to stand against spiritual forces that seek to hinder one's faith. 3. Community Support: The Christian community plays a vital role in helping individuals overcome hindrances. Through mutual encouragement, accountability, and teaching, believers can support one another in their spiritual journeys. 4. Perseverance: The Bible calls for perseverance in the face of hindrances. James 1:2-4 speaks of the testing of faith producing perseverance, which leads to spiritual maturity and completeness. In summary, the concept of hindrance in the Bible serves as a reminder of the challenges believers face in their spiritual walk. By identifying and addressing these obstacles, Christians can continue to grow in their faith and fulfill God's purposes for their lives. Library Whether Fear Hinders Action? Whether Pleasure Hinders the Use of Reason? Whether Insincerity Hinders the Effect of Baptism? Whether Anger Above all Hinders the Use of Reason? How Accidie Hinders the Mind from all Contemplation of the virtues ... Whether Food or Drink Taken Beforehand Hinders the Receiving of ... Now what is it in the Human Soul that Most of all Hinders the ... Whether the Seminal Loss that Occurs During Sleep Hinders Anyone ... Whether the Contemplative Life is Hindered by the Active Life? Whether a Man Can Hate the Truth? Thesaurus Hinders (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Hinders (3 Occurrences). Acts 8:36 And as they went along the way, they came upon a certain water, and ... /h/hinders.htm - 7k Hindmost (6 Occurrences) Obstacle (6 Occurrences) Letter (112 Occurrences) Impediment (2 Occurrences) Forget (77 Occurrences) Excludes (1 Occurrence) Disadvantage (1 Occurrence) Mischievous (13 Occurrences) Barrier (4 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean to 'run the race set before us' (Hebrews 12:1)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy should I believe in Christ's resurrection? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of Hebrews 12:2? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hinders (3 Occurrences)Acts 8:36 Hebrews 12:1 3 John 1:10 Subtopics Related Terms |