Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Corinthian correspondence, the Apostle Paul addresses the concept of holy zeal, emphasizing its importance in the life of a believer and the church community. Zeal, in its holy form, is a fervent and passionate commitment to God and His purposes, characterized by a sincere devotion to righteousness and the advancement of the Gospel.1 Corinthians 14:12 · In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul encourages the believers to pursue spiritual gifts with zeal, particularly those that build up the church. He writes, "It is the same with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, strive to excel in those that build up the church" . Here, Paul acknowledges the Corinthians' enthusiasm for spiritual gifts but directs their zeal towards edification and the common good, rather than personal elevation. 2 Corinthians 7:11 · Paul further illustrates the concept of holy zeal in his second letter, where he commends the Corinthians for their earnestness in repentance. He states, "Consider what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what zeal, what vindication! In every way you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter" . This passage highlights how genuine repentance and godly sorrow can produce a zeal that leads to transformation and righteousness. 2 Corinthians 9:2 · Paul also speaks of the Corinthians' zeal in the context of generosity. He writes, "For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your zeal has stirred most of them to do likewise" . The Corinthians' zeal in giving serves as an example and motivation for others, demonstrating how holy zeal can inspire collective action and support within the body of Christ. 2 Corinthians 11:2 · Paul expresses his own zeal for the Corinthians, likening it to a godly jealousy. He declares, "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. For I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to Him" . This passage reveals Paul's deep concern and fervent desire for the spiritual purity and faithfulness of the Corinthian church, reflecting a holy zeal that seeks the best for others in their relationship with Christ. In the Corinthian letters, holy zeal is portrayed as a vital attribute for believers, driving them towards spiritual growth, communal edification, and faithful service. It is a zeal rooted in love for God and others, manifesting in actions that align with the teachings of Christ and the apostolic mission. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 14:12Even so you, for as much as you are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that you may excel to the edifying of the church. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Zeal or Jealousy which we have for Our Lord. The Emperor is Exhorted to Display Zeal in the Faith. ... How the Holy Spirit is Called Love, and Whether He Alone is So ... That the Example of Certain Saints who Seem to have Exercised ... Fifteenth Day. The Holy Spirit. Number Index The Parables Exemplified in the Early History of the Church. That Sadness is Almost Always Useless, Yea Contrary to the Service ... The Early Life of Malachy. Having Been Admitted to Holy Orders He ... Title Index Resources Who was John the Apostle in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the money changers in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to have left your first love (Revelation 2:4)? | GotQuestions.org Zeal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: David Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Elijah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Israelites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehoiada Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehu Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Josiah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Moses and Levites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Phinehas Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Samuel Religious Zeal without Knowledge Religious Zeal: Andrew and Philip Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Religious Zeal: General Scriptures Concerning Religious Zeal: Paul and Barnabas Religious Zeal: Peter Rebuking Jesus Religious Zeal: The Healed Deaf-Mute Man Religious Zeal: The Restored Leper Religious Zeal: Two Blind Men Proclaiming the Miracle of Healing Zeal: Provokes Others to do Good Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Glory of God Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Welfare of Saints Zeal: should be Exhibited in Contending for the Faith Zeal: should be Exhibited in Desiring the Salvation of Others Zeal: should be Exhibited in Missionary Labours Zeal: should be Exhibited in Spirit Zeal: should be Exhibited in Well-Doing Zeal: should be Exhibited: Against Idolatry Zeal: Sometimes not According to Knowledge Zeal: Sometimes Wrongly Directed Zeal: Ungodly Men Sometimes Pretend To Related Terms |