Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "inventors of evil things" is found in the New Testament, specifically in the Apostle Paul's epistle to the Romans. In Romans 1:30 , Paul describes a list of sinful behaviors and attitudes that characterize those who have turned away from God. Among these, he includes "slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant, and boastful; they invent new forms of evil; they disobey their parents."This designation, "inventors of evil things," highlights the proactive and deliberate nature of sin in the lives of those who reject God's truth. It suggests not merely a passive participation in evil but an active creation and promotion of new ways to sin. This creativity in sinning is seen as a further step in the rebellion against God, indicating a deep-seated corruption and a willful engagement in ungodliness. From a biblical perspective, the concept of inventing evil is rooted in the fallen nature of humanity. The Bible teaches that all humans are born with a sinful nature due to the original sin of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3). This inherent sinfulness manifests in various ways, including the development of new and more sophisticated means of committing sin. The inventiveness in evil is a reflection of the human heart's capacity for wickedness, as described in Jeremiah 17:9 : "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" Throughout Scripture, the wicked are often portrayed as those who not only engage in sinful acts but also lead others astray through their innovations in evil. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things that the Lord hates, including "a heart that devises wicked schemes." This aligns with the idea of inventing evil, as it involves planning and executing actions that are contrary to God's will. The role of "inventors of evil things" is not limited to personal sin but extends to societal influence. In the biblical narrative, such individuals often lead communities or nations into idolatry and moral decay. For example, in the Old Testament, the kings of Israel and Judah who introduced and institutionalized idol worship are seen as inventors of evil, leading the people away from the worship of Yahweh. In the New Testament context, the inventors of evil are those who, having rejected the knowledge of God, not only practice unrighteousness but also encourage others to do the same. Romans 1:32 states, "Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things are worthy of death, they not only continue to do these things but also approve of those who practice them." Theologically, the existence of inventors of evil underscores the need for redemption and transformation through Jesus Christ. The gospel message offers hope and a new nature to those who turn from their wicked ways and embrace the truth of God. As believers are transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2), they are called to reject the deeds of darkness and walk in the light, becoming inventors of good rather than evil. In summary, the title "inventors of evil things" serves as a sobering reminder of the depths of human depravity and the active role that some take in propagating sin. It calls believers to vigilance in their own lives and to the mission of spreading the transformative power of the gospel to a world in need of redemption. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 1:30Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Cli. Letter or Address of Theodoret to the Monks of the ... part viii. The Theology of St. Hilary of Poitiers. Dialogue ii. --The Unconfounded. The Iranian Conquest 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.org What is the meaning of “Everlasting Father” in Isaiah 9:6? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |