Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical studies, the term "partisan" is not directly mentioned in the Scriptures. However, the concept of partisanship, understood as strong, sometimes blind allegiance to a particular party, faction, or cause, can be explored through various biblical narratives and teachings. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that address the nature of division, loyalty, and unity among God's people.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel often experienced division and partisanship, particularly during the period of the divided kingdom. After the reign of Solomon, the kingdom split into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah (1 Kings 12). This division was marked by political and religious partisanship, as the northern kingdom established its own centers of worship in Bethel and Dan, leading to idolatry and conflict with Judah. The prophets frequently addressed the dangers of such divisions. For instance, the prophet Hosea warned against the alliances and political maneuverings of the northern kingdom, which often led them away from reliance on God (Hosea 7:11-13). The call to return to God and forsake divisive allegiances is a recurring theme in the prophetic literature. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the early church faced challenges of partisanship, particularly in the form of divisions among believers. The Apostle Paul addressed this issue in his letters to the Corinthians. In 1 Corinthians 1:10-13 , Paul writes, "I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction. My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: Individuals among you are saying, 'I follow Paul,' 'I follow Apollos,' 'I follow Cephas,' or 'I follow Christ.' Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?" Paul's exhortation highlights the danger of aligning oneself with human leaders or factions at the expense of unity in Christ. He emphasizes that Christ is the foundation of the church, and believers are called to unity in Him, transcending personal or group loyalties. Theological Implications Theologically, the Bible calls for unity among believers, rooted in the truth of the Gospel and the person of Jesus Christ. Ephesians 4:3-6 urges believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." Partisanship, when it leads to division and strife, is contrary to the biblical call for unity. The Scriptures encourage believers to prioritize their allegiance to Christ above all else, fostering a spirit of love, humility, and cooperation within the body of Christ. Practical Considerations In practical terms, believers are encouraged to discern the difference between healthy diversity and harmful division. Romans 14:1-4 advises, "Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on his opinions. One man’s faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The one who eats everything must not belittle the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand." This passage underscores the importance of accepting one another in love, recognizing that differences in opinion or practice should not lead to division. Instead, believers are called to focus on their shared faith in Christ and work towards unity in the Spirit. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) An adherent to a party or faction; one who is strongly and passionately devoted to a party or an interest.2. (n.) The commander of a body of detached light troops engaged in making forays and harassing an enemy. 3. (n.) Any member of such a corps. 4. (a.) Adherent to a party or faction; especially, having the character of blind, passionate, or unreasonable adherence to a party; as, blinded by partisan zeal. 5. (a.) Serving as a partisan in a detached command; as, a partisan officer or corps. 6. (n.) A kind of halberd or pike; also, a truncheon; a staff. Greek 2208. Zelotes -- the Zealot, a member of a Jewish political party ... Zelotes. The same as Zelotes; a Zealot, ie (specially) partisan for Jewish political independence -- Zelotes. see GREEK Zelotes. 2207, 2208. Zelotes. 2209 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2208.htm - 6k Library Chapter thirteen The Condemnation of "The Three Chapters. " A Loyal Tribute To Pammachius against John of Jerusalem. The Princesses of the Comneni Acts XI Progress of Calvinism On the Study of the Evidences of Christianity. The King --Continued. Knox and Queen Mary, 1561 Thesaurus Partisan (1 Occurrence)... a.) Adherent to a party or faction; especially, having the character of blind, passionate, or unreasonable adherence to a party; as, blinded by partisan zeal. ... /p/partisan.htm - 7k Partisanship (1 Occurrence) Zealot (4 Occurrences) Dissension (18 Occurrences) Machine (2 Occurrences) Partisans (1 Occurrence) Partings (1 Occurrence) Catholic Adherent (1 Occurrence) Strong (736 Occurrences) Resources What are the disputable matters in Romans 14:1? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do Christians practice the indoctrination of children? | GotQuestions.org What is the history of the Bible in English? | GotQuestions.org Partisan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Partisan (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 1:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
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