a -proov ´: This word, as ordinarily used, means "to entertain a favorable opinion concerning" (Psalm 49:13; Lamentations 3:36 ). Its Biblical and archaic use conveys a much stronger meaning and is equivalent to its use in legal formalities of today, "to approve a bill," i.e. by some act, generally a signature, to express approval. In New Testament, a number of times, for Greek dokimázō , "to test, try, make proof of," and its derivative, dókimos , "tested," "tried." The word will, in almost every ease, imply that the proof is victoriously demonstrated, the proved is also approved, just as in English we speak of "tried men" (Trench, Greek Synonyms of New Testament ). It is the word most frequently used for the testing of ores. That which does not stand the test is adókimos , "reprobate." Compare Jeremiah 6:30 King James Version: "reprobate silver." That which stands the test is dokimos , "approved." "Salute Apelles the approved in Christ" (Romans 16:10 ); "they that are approved" (1 Corinthians 11:19 ); "Present thyself approved unto God" (2 Timothy 2:15 ); when he hath been "approved" (James 1:12 ). See also Romans 14:18 , Romans 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 2:4 .
The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) was edited by James Orr, John Nuelsen, Edgar Mullins, Morris Evans, and Melvin Grove Kyle and was published complete in 1939. This web site includes the complete text.
WikipediaThe ISBE is a classic Bible reference compiled from nearly 10,000 entries written by over 200 different Bible scholars and teachers. In addition to the encyclopedia articles, all of the major words of the Bible are represented and defined.
The historical, cultural, and linguistic information in the ISBE can be of great value in Bible study and research.
But as with any writings of men, the careful student of the Bible must always compare them with Scripture. As you use this helpful study resource, remember that only God's word is pure.
Read More