Edification; Edify
TextsWhat is the meaning of Edification; Edify in the Bible?
The Greek terms oikodomeo and oikodome function as metaphors for spiritual construction in the New Testament, where 'edify' and 'edification' translate the act of fostering growth in Christian character. The Revised Version often employs 'build up' to clarify the architectural imagery inherent in these passages.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the architectural metaphor of 'building up' clarifies how early Christian communities viewed spiritual maturity as a cumulative process of instruction and mutual support rather than an instantaneous event.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Edification; Edify functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Edification; Edify in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Edification; Edify clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Edification; Edify." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/edification-edify/