Topical Encyclopedia The term "striven" is derived from the verb "strive," which means to make great efforts to achieve or obtain something, or to struggle or fight vigorously. In the context of the Bible, "striven" often refers to the spiritual and moral efforts of individuals or groups in their pursuit of righteousness, obedience to God, and the advancement of His kingdom.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the concept of striving is frequently associated with the struggles of the Israelites as they sought to remain faithful to God's commandments amidst various challenges. The Hebrew word often translated as "strive" is "riyb," which can mean to contend, dispute, or plead. This is seen in passages where God contends with His people due to their disobedience or where individuals contend with one another. For example, in Genesis 6:3, God declares, "My Spirit will not contend with man forever, for he is mortal; his days will be 120 years." Here, the striving of God's Spirit with humanity is indicative of His patience and desire for repentance, yet it also underscores the limits of His forbearance in the face of persistent sin. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "agonizomai" is often used, which conveys the idea of striving or struggling, particularly in a spiritual or moral sense. This term is used in the context of the Christian life as a race or a battle that requires perseverance and dedication. Jesus Himself uses this term in Luke 13:24, where He instructs, "Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able." This passage emphasizes the effort required to live a life of faith and obedience, highlighting the narrow path that leads to salvation. The Apostle Paul frequently uses the imagery of striving in his epistles to describe the Christian's spiritual journey. In 1 Corinthians 9:25, he writes, "Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one." Here, Paul likens the Christian life to an athletic contest, where discipline and effort are necessary to achieve the ultimate prize of eternal life. Spiritual Warfare and Striving The concept of striving is also closely linked to the theme of spiritual warfare. Believers are called to strive against the forces of evil, as described in Ephesians 6:12, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This passage underscores the reality of the spiritual battle and the need for believers to be vigilant and equipped with the armor of God. Striving for Unity and Peace In addition to personal spiritual growth, the Bible also speaks of striving for unity and peace within the body of Christ. In Ephesians 4:3, Paul exhorts believers to be "eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." This striving involves humility, patience, and love, as believers work together to reflect the unity that is found in Christ. Conclusion The biblical concept of striving encompasses a range of spiritual and moral efforts, from personal sanctification to communal harmony. It is a call to active engagement in the Christian life, marked by perseverance, discipline, and a reliance on God's strength to overcome the challenges and opposition faced in the pursuit of holiness and the advancement of God's kingdom. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. p.) of Strive.Strong's Hebrew 8280. sarah -- to persist, exert oneself, persevere... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to persist, exert oneself, persevere NASB Word Usage contended (1), striven (1), wrestled (1). have power as a prince. ... /hebrew/8280.htm - 6k Library The Prodigal's Return A Call to the Unconverted The Folly of Slander. Part 1. Evolution in General Miracles of Destruction. A Christmas Sermon The Christian Home Christians Proved Innocent by their Contempt of Death. Preface. Grundtvig's Hymns Thesaurus Striven (10 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Striven (10 Occurrences). 2 Timothy 4:7 the good strife I have striven, the course I have finished, the faith I have kept, (YLT). ... /s/striven.htm - 9k Strived (1 Occurrence) Strife (71 Occurrences) Calleth (261 Occurrences) Weren't (25 Occurrences) Removeth (27 Occurrences) Enlargement (7 Occurrences) Embitter (2 Occurrences) Enlargements (1 Occurrence) Diggeth (7 Occurrences) Resources Striven: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Striven (10 Occurrences)2 Timothy 4:7 Genesis 26:20 Genesis 26:22 Genesis 32:28 Genesis 49:23 Numbers 20:13 Numbers 26:9 Deuteronomy 33:7 Job 33:13 Jeremiah 50:24 Subtopics Related Terms |