Topical Encyclopedia Integrity, in the biblical context, refers to the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that align with God's standards. It is a steadfast adherence to ethical and moral codes, reflecting a life that is consistent with the teachings of Scripture. The Bible places a high value on integrity, often associating it with righteousness and wisdom.In the Old Testament, integrity is exemplified in the life of Job, who is described as "blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). Despite severe trials and suffering, Job maintains his integrity, refusing to curse God or abandon his faith. His account illustrates that integrity involves unwavering faithfulness to God, even in adversity. Proverbs frequently highlights the importance of integrity. Proverbs 10:9 states, "He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out" . This verse underscores the security and peace that come from living a life of integrity, contrasting it with the inevitable exposure of deceitful ways. In the New Testament, integrity is closely linked to the character of Jesus Christ, who lived a sinless life and embodied perfect righteousness. Believers are called to emulate Christ's example, as seen in 1 Peter 2:21-22: "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: 'He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth'" . Integrity is also a qualification for leadership within the church. In 1 Timothy 3:2, Paul instructs that an overseer "must be above reproach" , indicating that integrity is essential for those in positions of spiritual authority. This requirement ensures that leaders are trustworthy and set a godly example for others to follow. Repentance Repentance is a fundamental concept in Christianity, involving a sincere turning away from sin and turning toward God. It is characterized by a change of mind and heart, leading to a transformation in behavior. Repentance is essential for salvation and is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament, the call to repentance is often issued by the prophets, who urge the people of Israel to return to God and forsake their sinful ways. For example, in Joel 2:12-13, the Lord declares, "Even now, return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion" . This passage emphasizes the inward nature of true repentance, which goes beyond mere external actions. The New Testament continues this call to repentance, beginning with John the Baptist, who preached, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 3:2). Jesus Himself began His ministry with a similar message, as recorded in Matthew 4:17: "From that time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near'" . Repentance is presented as a necessary response to the coming of God's kingdom and the arrival of the Messiah. The Apostle Paul also emphasizes repentance in his teachings. In Acts 17:30, he declares, "Although God overlooked the ignorance of earlier times, He now commands all people everywhere to repent" . This universal call to repentance highlights its importance for all humanity, regardless of background or previous beliefs. Repentance is closely linked to forgiveness and salvation. In 1 John 1:9, believers are assured, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" . This promise underscores the transformative power of repentance, which leads to a restored relationship with God and a new life in Christ. Subtopics Integrity: Daniel, in his Abstemiousness (I. E. Abstinent) Integrity: Daniel, in Maintaining Uprightness of Character and Consistent Devoutness Integrity: David, in his Conduct While in Refuge With the Philistines Integrity: David, in Preventing Foraging by his Insurgent Forces Integrity: David, in Self-Reproach for the Cutting of Saul's Robe Integrity: General Scriptures Concerning Integrity: Jacob, in the Care of Laban's Property Integrity: Jacob's Sons, when Accused by Joseph of Robbery Integrity: Joab, when Ordered by David to Count the Military Forces of Israel Integrity: Joseph, a Counselor Integrity: Joseph, in Resisting Potiphar's Wife Integrity: Joseph, Innocent of the Charge Which Caused Him to be Cast Into the Dungeon Integrity: Joseph, the Husband of Mary, in not Jealously Accusing Her of Immorality Integrity: Moses, in Taking Nothing from the Israelites in Consideration of his Services Integrity: Nathanael, in Whom Was No Guile Integrity: Nehemiah, Reforming the Civil Service, and Receiving No Compensation for his own Services Integrity: Paul and Barnabas, when the People of Lystra Desired to Deify Them Integrity: Peter, when offered Money by Simon Magus Integrity: Pharaoh, when he Learned That Sarah Was Abraham's Wife Integrity: Samuel, in Exacting Nothing from the People on Account of his Services Integrity: The Egyptian Midwives when Commanded to Destroy the Newborn Babies of the Israelites Integrity: The Rechabites, in Keeping the Nazarite Vows Integrity: Workmen, Who Repaired the Temple Integrity: Zacchaeus, in the Administration of his Wealth Related Terms |