Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept Renewal in the biblical context refers to the process of being made new or restored, both spiritually and morally. It is a transformative process that involves a change of heart and mind, aligning oneself with the will and purposes of God. This concept is central to the Christian faith, emphasizing the need for believers to continually seek spiritual growth and maturity. Old Testament Foundations The idea of renewal is rooted in the Old Testament, where God promises to restore and renew His people. In Isaiah 40:31, the prophet declares, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint." This passage highlights the divine source of renewal, emphasizing reliance on God for strength and vitality. The theme of renewal is also evident in the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. In Ezekiel 36:26, God promises, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." This renewal is both individual and communal, signifying a transformation that leads to obedience and faithfulness. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, renewal is closely associated with the work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the concept of renewal in his epistles. In Romans 12:2, he exhorts believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." Here, renewal involves a mental and spiritual transformation that enables discernment and alignment with God's will. Paul further elaborates on this theme in Ephesians 4:22-24, where he instructs believers to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This passage underscores the moral and ethical dimensions of renewal, calling for a departure from sinful behaviors and the adoption of a Christ-like character. Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the process of renewal. In Titus 3:5, Paul writes, "He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit." The Spirit is the agent of renewal, effecting the new birth and empowering believers to live transformed lives. Practical Implications Renewal is an ongoing process in the life of a believer. It involves daily surrender to God's will, regular engagement with Scripture, and a commitment to prayer and fellowship with other believers. Colossians 3:10 encourages Christians to "put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." This continuous renewal is essential for spiritual growth and maturity, enabling believers to reflect the character of Christ in their lives. Conclusion While the entry does not include a formal conclusion, it is evident that renewal is a foundational aspect of the Christian life, deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments. It is a divine work that requires human cooperation, resulting in a life that increasingly mirrors the holiness and righteousness of God. Topical Bible Verses Isaiah 40:31But they that wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Topicalbible.org Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The act of renewing, or the state of being renewed; as, the renewal of a treaty.Greek 1456. egkainia -- dedication, renewal (of religious services) ... dedication, renewal (of religious services). Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter Transliteration: egkainia Phonetic Spelling: (eng-kah'-ee-nee-ah) Short Definition: ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1456.htm - 6k 3824. paliggenesia -- regeneration, renewal 342. anakainosis -- renewal 2538. kainotes -- newness Library Baptism Renewal of the Vow. The Impossibility of Renewal. Renewal in the Image of Christ. For the Renewal of Anniversary Blessings. That the Renewal of Man is not Completed in this World. The Beginning of Renewal; Resurrection Called Regeneration; they ... Imploring Forgiveness and Renewal of Heart. Renewal of Hostilities Between the Romans and Persians after the ... Renewal of Troubles. Second Exile. Pistus and Gregory, Culmination ... Whether the Plants and Animals Will Remain in this Renewal? Thesaurus Renewal (6 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) The act of renewing, or the state of being renewed; as, the renewal of a treaty. ...Renewal (6 Occurrences). ... /r/renewal.htm - 8k Earth (10501 Occurrences) Heavens (548 Occurrences) Renewed (17 Occurrences) Renew (16 Occurrences) Anem (1 Occurrence) Baptismal (1 Occurrence) Lord's (548 Occurrences) Mouth (534 Occurrences) Regeneration (2 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about renewal? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Titus - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org What is palingenesis? | GotQuestions.org Renewal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Renewal (6 Occurrences)Matthew 19:28 Romans 12:2 Colossians 3:11 Titus 3:5 Job 14:14 Isaiah 57:10 Subtopics Related Terms |