Topical Encyclopedia
The term "Excellent" as a title or name for saints is rooted in the biblical understanding of the character and calling of those who are set apart for God's purposes. In Scripture, the saints are often depicted as those who embody virtues and qualities that reflect the nature of God, and the term "Excellent" captures this essence.
Biblical FoundationThe concept of excellence in relation to the saints is derived from various passages that highlight the moral and spiritual qualities expected of God's people. While the specific phrase "Excellent, The" is not directly used in the Berean Standard Bible, the underlying principle is evident throughout the biblical narrative.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "excellent" is "yakar," which conveys the idea of being precious, valuable, or honorable. This is seen in passages that describe the people of God as His treasured possession. For example, in
Exodus 19:5, God declares, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine."
The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing the transformation and sanctification of believers. In
Philippians 4:8 , Paul exhorts the saints to focus on virtues that are excellent: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things."
Characteristics of the Excellent Saints1.
Moral Integrity: Saints are called to live lives of moral excellence, reflecting the holiness of God. This involves a commitment to righteousness and a rejection of sin. In
1 Peter 2:9 , believers are described as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."
2.
Spiritual Maturity: Excellence in the life of a saint is also marked by spiritual growth and maturity. This involves a deepening relationship with God and an increasing conformity to the image of Christ.
Hebrews 6:1 encourages believers to "leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity."
3.
Service and Sacrifice: The excellent saints are those who serve others selflessly, following the example of Christ. Their lives are characterized by acts of love, compassion, and sacrifice. In
Romans 12:1 , Paul urges believers to "offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."
4.
Faithfulness and Perseverance: Excellence is also demonstrated through faithfulness to God and perseverance in trials. The saints are called to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in God's promises.
James 1:12 states, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him."
ConclusionThe title "Excellent, The" for saints encapsulates the high calling and noble character expected of those who belong to God. Through moral integrity, spiritual maturity, service, and perseverance, the saints reflect the excellence of their Creator, living as His representatives in the world.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Psalm 16:3But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
That Worthy Name.
... to His worth that blessed Name is far from being fully known and uttered by the
Saints of God. ... Oh, the titles, the attributes, the names, the glories ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/that worthy name.htm
The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints
... everything you like; but know that those titles will not ... thick jungle of India shall
see the saints of God ... t expect kings to put down their names for trifles. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the kingly priesthood of the.htm
The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
... on Aaron's breast-plate was fixed the names of the ... odours, which are the prayers
of saints, and they ... Thus you see what terms, characters, titles, and privileges ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm
The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts
... 2 Tim. 1:9,10. HYMN 138 Saints in the hands of Christ Jn. 10:28,29. ... HYMN 147
The names and titles of Christ. From several scriptures. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/
Preface
... of Ruskin's eccentric seeking after curious titles; and the ... the "Celestial Lily"
as Mother Church names the noble ... words, that "we see the Saints better through ...
//christianbookshelf.org/ruskin/saint ursula/preface.htm
The Struggler;
... any such Christians and doctrines; their names and doctrines ... And the effect was,
the saints were strengthened ... not charge the following running-titles upon our ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the struggler.htm
Motives to the Oversight of the Flock
... In the saints themselves, how soon do the Christian graces ... the appendage of the work
Is it names and honor ... his Church, and never think of titles and reputation ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 3 motives to.htm
To John the Oeconomus.
... was called Jesus and Christ, receiving the names from the ... But this common use of
titles gives no offence ... idols the divine name, while the saints have received ...
/.../the ecclesiastical history of theodoret/cxlvi to john the oeconomus.htm
My Own Sentiments on Predestination.
... of life eternal, and with the honourable titles by which ... nature of death eternal,
and with the names by which ... will of man, the perseverance of saints, and the ...
/.../arminius/the works of james arminius vol 1/5 my own sentiments on.htm
They Shall be Called the Children of God
... Positively: They have titles of honour ... of God's children by adoption is far more
excellent and honourable ... As Christ bears the saints' names upon his breast, so ...
/.../the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/19 they shall be called.htm
Resources
What is the name of God? | GotQuestions.orgIs it biblical to call the wife of a pastor, elder, or bishop the First Lady of the church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of “Everlasting Father” in Isaiah 9:6? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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