Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Toleration, in a biblical sense, refers to the allowance or acceptance of beliefs, practices, or behaviors that one may not necessarily agree with. It involves patience and restraint in dealing with differences, particularly in religious or moral contexts. The concept of toleration is rooted in the broader biblical themes of love, patience, and forbearance. Biblical Foundations: The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that underscore the importance of toleration. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently addresses the need for Christians to live in harmony despite differences. In Romans 14:1 , Paul writes, "Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on his opinions." This passage highlights the call for believers to exercise tolerance towards those who may hold different convictions, particularly in matters of personal conscience. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus Christ exemplified toleration through His interactions with a diverse range of individuals, including those marginalized by society. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). This beatitude encourages believers to pursue peace and understanding, which inherently involves a degree of toleration. The Parable of the Weeds: In Matthew 13:24-30 , Jesus tells the Parable of the Weeds, where a farmer allows both wheat and weeds to grow together until the harvest. This parable can be interpreted as a lesson in toleration, suggesting that judgment should be reserved for God, and that believers are to coexist with those who may not share their faith or values. Paul's Exhortations: Paul's letters often address the need for unity and toleration within the early church. In Ephesians 4:2-3 , he urges, "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Here, Paul emphasizes the virtues of humility, patience, and love as essential to maintaining unity, which requires toleration of differences. Old Testament Insights: The Old Testament also provides insights into the concept of toleration. Proverbs 19:11 states, "A man's insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense." This proverb highlights the wisdom in exercising patience and the virtue of overlooking offenses, which aligns with the practice of toleration. Limits of Toleration: While the Bible advocates for toleration, it also sets boundaries, particularly when it comes to sin and false teachings. In Galatians 1:8-9 , Paul warns against accepting any gospel contrary to the one he preached, indicating that toleration does not extend to compromising core doctrinal truths. Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 5:11 , Paul instructs the church to dissociate from those who claim to be believers but live in blatant sin, demonstrating that toleration has its limits when it comes to maintaining the purity and integrity of the faith community. Practical Application: In practical terms, toleration involves engaging with others respectfully and lovingly, even when disagreements arise. It requires a balance between upholding truth and extending grace. Christians are called to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), which involves standing firm in their convictions while also demonstrating the love and patience that Christ exemplified. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The allowance of divergent opinions or religions; forbearance.2. (n.) Specifically, the allowance of religious opinions and modes of worship in a state when contrary to, or different from, those of the established church or belief. 3. (n.) Hence, freedom from bigotry and severity in judgment of the opinions or belief of others, especially in respect to religious matters. Greek 3929. paresis -- a letting go ... remission. From ktetor; praetermission, ie Toleration -- remission. see GREEK ktetor. (paresin) -- 1 Occurrence. 3928, 3929. paresis. 3930 . Strong's Numbers //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3929.htm - 7k Library Toleration Toleration The Saybrook Platform and the Toleration Act True or False Toleration? December 9. General Chronological Table of the Life of S. Athanasius. Letters and Edicts. Branches of Church History. Contemporary History. The Character of the Enemies of Religion. Protest of the Princes Thesaurus Toleration (1 Occurrence)... to religious matters. Multi-Version Concordance Toleration (1 Occurrence). 2 Corinthians 11:4 If indeed some visitor is proclaiming ... /t/toleration.htm - 7k Toll (8 Occurrences) Visitor (2 Occurrences) Jezebel (20 Occurrences) Gamaliel (7 Occurrences) Welcomed (30 Occurrences) Forbearance (9 Occurrences) Tolerating (1 Occurrence) Tolerance (2 Occurrences) Admirable (1 Occurrence) Resources What impact did John Locke have on the Christian faith? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the Edict of Milan? | GotQuestions.org What is the origin of the Roman Catholic Church? | GotQuestions.org Toleration: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Toleration (1 Occurrence)2 Corinthians 11:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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