In the Bible, “chide” generally means to scold or reproach, often in the context of correcting or admonishing someone for their behavior. It conveys a sense of urging repentance or a change in conduct, as seen in passages where God or a spokesperson addresses wrongdoing.
Scripture
11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline
or be weary of his reproof,
12 for the Lord reproves him whom he loves,
as a father the son in whom he delights.
Chide Meaning in the Bible
The term “chide” in the Bible often encompasses the roles of correction, admonition, and the pursuit of righteousness. It reflects the broader biblical theme of accountability and the expectation of moral behavior among God’s people. For example, in Psalm 103:9-10, it is stated, “He will not always chide, neither will he keep his anger forever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.” This passage highlights God’s patience and mercy while also affirming His authority to correct and admonish His followers. The act of chiding, therefore, serves a dual purpose: it affirms God’s justice while simultaneously encouraging believers to pursue a path of holiness.
Moreover, the prophetic literature frequently employs chiding as a means of urging Israel to repent. In Jeremiah 7:13, God declares, “And now, because you have done all these things, says the Lord, and I spoke to you, rising up early and speaking, but you did not hear; and I called you, but you did not answer.” Here, the chiding reflects God’s relentless pursuit of relationship with His people, calling them to change their ways. This corrective discourse is an essential aspect of God’s covenantal relationship with humanity, emphasizing that true repentance is necessary to restore fellowship with Him. The overarching message is that while chiding may involve reprimand, it also comes from a place of deep love and the desire for reconciliation and transformation.
The biblical concept of chiding can also be understood within the context of parental relationships, particularly in the way that God interacts with His children. Proverbs speaks frequently about the importance of discipline and correction, where chiding takes on the role of imparting wisdom and guidance. Proverbs 3:11-12 illustrates this sentiment beautifully: “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.” This passage not only acknowledges the necessity of correction but presents it as an act of love, suggesting that chiding is a vital part of growth and maturity in faith.
The New Testament also incorporates the idea of chiding in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Matthew 18:15-17, Jesus instructs His followers on how to address a brother who sins: they are to go to him privately, seeking a restoration in relationship. This process of confrontation underscores the importance of chiding in promoting reconciliation and accountability within the community of believers. It reveals that constructive chiding, when carried out in love and humility, serves to strengthen bonds and nurture a spirit of unity. Thus, chiding, throughout the biblical narrative, emerges not merely as a reprimand but as a multifaceted expression of love aimed at correction, growth, and fostering deeper relationships both with God and among each other.
Divine Correction and Instruction
In the biblical context, “chide” often refers to God’s role in correcting and instructing His people. This chiding is not merely punitive but serves as a means of guidance, encouraging individuals to turn away from sin and return to a righteous path. It reflects God’s desire for His followers to grow in wisdom and understanding, emphasizing the importance of repentance and moral integrity.
Human Accountability and Relationships
Chiding can also be understood in the context of interpersonal relationships among believers. It signifies the responsibility individuals have to hold one another accountable for their actions. This form of chiding is rooted in love and concern, aiming to foster spiritual growth and community cohesion. It highlights the necessity of honest communication and the importance of addressing wrongdoing within the body of believers.
The Balance of Justice and Mercy
Another broader meaning of chide in the Bible encompasses the balance between justice and mercy. While chiding can imply a stern reprimand, it is often accompanied by the hope of restoration and forgiveness. This duality reflects God’s character, where He is just in addressing sin but also merciful in offering grace and second chances. This understanding encourages believers to approach chiding with a spirit of compassion, recognizing the potential for redemption in every situation.
How to Embrace Correction for Spiritual Growth
Embracing correction is a vital part of our journey as Christians, and it can often feel uncomfortable, but it’s essential for our spiritual growth. When someone points out a flaw or a misstep in our behavior or beliefs, it’s easy to become defensive or dismissive. However, I’ve found that approaching these moments with an open heart can lead to profound transformation. Remember Proverbs 12:1, which tells us that “whoever loves discipline loves knowledge.” Instead of viewing correction as a personal attack, try to see it as an opportunity to reflect on your actions and align them more closely with Christ’s teachings. Pray for humility and wisdom, and ask God to help you see the truth in the feedback you receive. Surround yourself with a community that encourages honest dialogue, and be willing to extend grace to others as they correct you, just as you would hope to receive grace in return. In doing so, you’ll not only grow closer to God but also foster deeper relationships with those around you.
Bible References to the Meaning of Chide:
Job 5:17-18: 17 “Behold, blessed is the one whom God reproves;
therefore despise not the discipline of the Almighty.
18 For he wounds, but he binds up; he shatters, but his hands heal.
Psalm 6:1-2: 1 O Lord, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline me in your wrath.
2 Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am languishing; heal me, O Lord, for my bones are troubled.
Psalm 38:1-2: 1 O Lord, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline me in your wrath!
2 For your arrows have sunk into me, and your hand has pressed down on me.
Psalm 94:12-13: 12 Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O Lord, and whom you teach out of your law.
13 to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked.
Psalm 118:18-19: 18 The Lord has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death.
19 Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the Lord.
Proverbs 15:31-32: 31 The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.
32 Whoever ignores instruction despises himself,
but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.
Proverbs 19:18-19: 18 Discipline your son, for there is hope; do not set your heart on putting him to death.
19 A man of great wrath will pay the penalty, for if you deliver him, you will only have to do it again.
Proverbs 29:15-17: 15 The rod and reproof give wisdom,
but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.
16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases,
but the righteous will look upon their downfall.
17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.
Isaiah 1:18-20: 18 “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.
19 If you are willing and obedient,
you shall eat the good of the land;
20 but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be eaten by the sword; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
Jeremiah 2:19-20: 19 Your evil will chastise you,
and your apostasy will reprove you.
Know and see that it is evil and bitter
for you to forsake the Lord your God;
the fear of me is not in you,
declares the Lord God of hosts.
20 “For long ago I broke your yoke
and burst your bonds;
but you said, ‘I will not serve.’
Yes, on every high hill
and under every green tree
you bowed down like a whore.
Jeremiah 30:11-12: 11 For I am with you to save you, declares the Lord;
12 “For thus says the Lord: Your hurt is incurable, and your wound is grievous.”
Hosea 6:1-2: 1 “Come, let us return to the Lord;
for he has torn us, that he may heal us;
he has struck us down, and he will bind us up.”
2 After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we may live before him.
Zephaniah 3:2-4: 2 She listens to no voice; she accepts no correction. She does not trust in the Lord; she does not draw near to her God.
3 Her officials within her are roaring lions;
her judges are evening wolves
that leave nothing till the morning.
4 Her prophets are fickle, treacherous men;
her priests profane what is holy;
they do violence to the law.
Hebrews 12:5-6: 5 And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him.
6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and chastises every son whom he receives.”
Revelation 3:19-20: 19 Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.
20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.