Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 107:425 (Jan 1950)
Article: Editorials
Author: Anonymous

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BSac 107:425 (Jan 50) p. 1

Editorials

Abiding

The word μένω, which is translated abide, is used about 120 times in the New Testament. Other English terms used to translate this word are equally significant—’remain, continue, tarry, endure’ (Matt 10:11; Luke 19:5; Acts 9:43; 27:31; 1 Cor 13:13; 2 Tim 2:13). The Apostle John employs this verb sixty-four times, and in his writings the Authorized Version translators have rendered the word abide twenty-one times. The meaning of this Greek term is thus clearly indicated as that which remains, dwells, continues, tarries or endures; it is what abides in the position in which it is placed. In reference to spiritual reality the word abide indicates a constancy in relation to Christ. It is also true that Christ referred to His own abiding in the believer (cf. John 15:5), which relationship could never fail since it depends only on His faithfulness. There is little basis, consequently, for the sentiment expressed in certain hymns wherein Christ is petitioned to abide with the believer.

The general meaning of the word abide lends itself to at least two ideas—one which suggests a continuing in union with Christ, and another which suggests a continuing in communion with Christ. The most revealing passage is John 15:1–17, where the believer is enjoined to abide in Christ as a branch abides in the vine. This passage will not support the notion that to abide in Christ means to remain in union with Him; when this superficial rendering is accepted, only false doctrine ensues. On the other hand, it is clear that the word of exhortation directs the believer to remain in communion with Christ, as He remained in communion with His Father. As the sap flows from the vine into the branch that remains in contact, so the spiritual vitality flows from Christ to the believer who abides. Communion depends upon agreement, and agreement requires complete subjection of one to his superior: thus it is imperative that the commandments

BSac 107:425 (Jan 50) p. 2

of the one shall be kept by the other. Christ said that by keeping His Father’s commandments He abode in His love. There was, of course, no attempt on Christ’s part to preserve a union with His Father. That had been unbroken and unbreakable from all eternity; but, on the human side, He did maintain communion by doing the Father’s will.

Three vers...

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