Dictionary of Bible Themes: 8307 moderation

8307 moderation

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8200 The character of the believer » 8307 moderation

The classic virtue of temperate conduct, especially the avoidance of extremes. Scripture commends moderation as a way of life for Christians, while stressing the need for total commitment to God.

The ideal of moderation

Ecclesiastes 7:16-18

Moderation in a legal context

Exodus 21:23-25 The purpose of this legislation was not to encourage vengeance but to moderate or restrain it. See also Leviticus 24:17-22; Numbers 35:9-15 pp Deuteronomy 4:41-43 pp Deuteronomy 19:1-10 One purpose of cities of refuge was to moderate the revenge of families of the murdered.

Moderation in personal and social relations

Proverbs 17:27 See also Genesis 43:29-31; Proverbs 12:16; Proverbs 23:4; Galatians 5:22-23

Moderation in personal ethics

Titus 2:11-12 See also Proverbs 15:16 Moderation in matters of wealth is affirmed.

Moderation in speech is commended:

Matthew 5:33-37; Colossians 4:6 Ephesians 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8; 1 Timothy 3:2-3,8,11; Titus 1:7-8; Titus 2:2-8

Moderation in religious activity

Ecclesiastes 7:16-17 See also Matthew 23:23-26; 1 Corinthians 14:26-33

Moderation must not lead to being spiritually lukewarm

Revelation 3:15-16 See also Revelation 3:1-2