Paddle small spade. Deut. 23:13.
Painful toilsome. Psa. 73:16.
Painfulness toil. 2 Cor.11:27.
Palace
1. αύλή “an open court enclosed by buildings,” “a large house,” Matt. 26:3,58,69; Mark 14:54,66; Luke 11:21; John 18:15.
2. πραιτώριον, praetorium, from “praetor,” a Roman officer; his court or residence, Mark 15:16; Phil. 1:13; also translated “judgment hall” and “common hall.”
Palm(s) φοῖνιξ. It was formerly very abundant in Israel, and yielded a rich supply of dates, a highly prized Eastern food and luxury. It is not only justly celebrated for its fruit, but its large, beautifully-shaped leaves were waved as emblematic of victory. Rev. 7:9. The fibrous nature of its trunk makes it an unsuitable wood for the manufacture of fine articles, but for garden-gates, posts, beams, etc. it is well adapted, and for these purposes is largely used in the East. Its branches were strewn in the path when the Lord entered Jerusalem, John 12:13, and as an emblem of victory are held by the multitude who cry “Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.” Rev. 7:9; John 12:13. A symbol of the growth and flourishing state of the righteous. Song of Sol. 7:7-8; Psa. 92:12.
Palmer-worm This terribly destructive insect is much dreaded in the East. It is one of the locust species, but in its larva state, when it is fully as destructive to vegetation as when full winged. The locust in the various stages of its existence commits the most frightful ravages upon some of the fairest portions of the earth. Joel 1:4; Amos 4:9.
Palsy Palsy is a contraction of “paralysis,” and this is described as a loosening or disabling, a loss of the power of motion or sensation in any part of the body. Matt. 4:24; 8:6; 9:2,6; Mark 2:3-10; Luke 5:18,24; Acts 8:7; 9:33.
Pamphylia A district in Asia Minor visited by Paul. It lies on the south coast, with Cilicia on the east, and Lycia on the west. Acts 2:10; 13:13; 14:24; 15:38; 27:5.
Paper Formerly made of the papyrus which grew in Egypt. 2 John 12.
Paphos A city on the west coast of Cyprus. It was here that Paul condemned Elymas, who sought to prevent Sergius Paulus from listening to him. Acts 13:6,13.
Paradise Revelation 2:7 seems to allude to the garden of Eden, with its tree of life, as a type of what Christ will give to the overcomer. Christ promised the thief on the cross that he should be with Him that day in paradise (Luke 23:43). Paul was caught up to the third heavens and heard in paradise unspeakable words (2 Cor. 12:4). In all the passages it signifies a “place of delights and happiness.”
Paradise A symbol of heaven, or the immediate presence of God. Luke 23:43; 2 Cor. 12:4.
Parcel portion. Gen. 33:19.
Parchments “Membranes or skins,” on which manuscripts were anciently written, and which succeeded the use of papyrus. 2 Tim. 4:13.
Parmenas One of the seven chosen to attend to the needs of the saints at Jerusalem. Acts 6:5.
Parthians Natives of Parthia, a large country in the far east, adjoining Media, on the south of the Caspian Sea. Parthians were at Jerusalem at Pentecost. This is apparently the most distant country from which any had travelled on that occasion. That there should have been Israelites of the dispersion from so many districts, and such immense distances was no doubt ordered of God, for it was an occasion that had never been before. Thousands heard the gospel and could carry it back with them. Acts 2:9. {see Medes}.
Partridge The habit of this bird in laying her eggs on the ground and her attempts to hatch them there is noticed by the Prophet Jeremiah. Thousands of eggs are thus procured and the bird itself is easily caught; that too, and the manner of doing it, are noted in 1 Samuel 26:20, etc. Jer. 17:11; 1 Sam. 26:20.
Pass to surpass. Eph. 3:19.
Passion “To be affected, to suffer,” Acts 1:3, after Christ “had suffered.”
Pastor(s) ποιμήν, “a shepherd.” Eph. 4:11 is the only place where pastors are named; but Peter was told to shepherd Christ’s sheep. John 21:16. The Lord is called the good Shepherd, John 10:11,14; the great Shepherd (Heb. 13:20); and the chief Shepherd, 1 Peter 5:4, an example to the pastors how to watch over and tend His sheep and lambs. {See “Offices and Gifts in the Church”}
Patara A seaport in Lycia, lying to the east of Rhodes, from whence Paul on his third missionary journey sailed to Phoenice. Acts 21:1.
Pate the head. Psa. 7:16.
Patmos The island to which the apostle John was banished, by Domitian as is supposed. It is a rocky island in the Aegean Sea, near Samos. Rev. 1:9. There is a town half an hour’s climb from the harbor, with 4,000 or 5,000 Greek inhabitants. The island is now called Patino.
Patriarch “Head of a family” and often used in Scripture to designate Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the twelve sons of Jacob. Acts 2:29; 7:8-9; Heb. 7:4.
Pattern
1. τύπος, From “to strike,” Titus 2:7; Heb. 8:5, “type,” “pattern.”
2. ύποτύπωσις, “a delineation,” 1 Tim. 1:16.
3. ύπόδειγμα, from “to show before,” Heb. 9:23, “representations.”
Paul formerly named Saul. He was of the tribe of Benjamin, a native of Tarsus, a city of Cilicia, and born free of Rome. He was a Pharisee, and studied under Gamaliel. We first hear of him as a young man, at whose feet the clothes of the witnesses against the martyr Stephen were laid. He became a violent persecutor of the church, thinking he was therein doing God service. After his conversion (about A.D. 36), he began at once to preach that Jesus was the Son of God (Acts 9:20). He had his gospel and his mission direct from heaven, so that he had no need to seek a commission from Jerusalem, though he was not independent of the church already formed: he received his sight and the Holy Spirit by the laying on of hands of Ananias, a disciple of Damascus. A new phase began in the church by its heavenly character being taught by Paul, who was an apostle. To him was revealed the truth of the one body of Christ, and the doctrine of the church, that in Christ Jesus there is neither Jew nor Gentile, the middle wall being entirely broken down. Though the question of Gentile believers being exempt from keeping the law was settled at Jerusalem, yet Paul suffered much persecution from the Jews and Judaizing teachers, who could not fall in with the Gentiles having an equal place with them. Paul was emphatically the apostle to the Gentiles, and this caused him to take several missionary journeys into Asia, and to cross to Europe. It is clear from 2 Corinthians 11:24-27 that in the Acts we do not get by any means a full account of his labours. He was arrested at Jerusalem, and sent to Caesarea for his safety. To avoid being sent back to Jerusalem, where plots were made to murder him, he appealed to Rome, and was sent there. After two years of an easy imprisonment (Acts 28:30-31), he was doubtless liberated, for this is implied in these last two verses of the Acts; and when previously could he have left Trophimus sick at Miletus (2 Tim. 4:20)? We do not know all his movements, but apparently he visited Ephesus, 1 Tim. 1:3; Macedoni, 1 Tim. 1:3; Troas, 2 Tim. 4:13; Miletus, 2 Tim. 4:20; Crete, Titus 1:5; and Nicopolis, Titus 3:12. The early writers say he visited Spain, which we know he desired to do. Rom. 15:24,28. When 2 Timothy was written he was again a prisoner, expecting the near approach of death. Tradition says he was beheaded with the sword, and this form of execution is probable, because he was a Roman citizen.
Pavement The part of the Roman governor’s palace where judgment was announced, perhaps an open court, for a Roman judgment had to be proclaimed under the open heaven, and in the presence of the accusers. The Greek word signifies “strewn or inlaid with stones.” Gabbatha signifies “a hill,” it was probably a raised platform of tessellated pavement. John 19:13.
Peace The gospel is called “the gospel of peace.” Rom. 10:15; Eph. 6:15. On its reception the believer, being justified by faith, has peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Rom. 5:1. He made peace through the blood of the cross. Col. 1:20. Therefore to the saints God is called “the God of peace,” and the Lord Jesus is “the Lord of peace.” Rom. 15:33; 2 Thess. 3:16. The Lord Jesus, who is our peace, also made peace on the cross between Jew and Gentile, making in Himself “one new man.” Eph. 2:14-15. When the Lord left His disciples in the world, He gave them peace and added “My peace I give unto you.” John 14:27. “The mind of the Spirit life and peace.” Rom. 8:6 JND. All God’s saints, after spreading out their requests before God, should know what it is to have the peace of God that passeth understanding keeping their hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phil. 4:6-7.
Peacock This beautiful bird was imported into Israel from India every three years by the ships of Solomon. On the same occasions apes were brought to the king for their playful antics, as the peacocks were for their rare beauty. 1 King 10:22; 2 Chron. 9:21.
Pearl Symbol of beauty and costliness. Matt. 7:6; 13:45; Rev. 21:21.
Pearl, One A symbol of the Church in unity, beauty, costliness. Matt. 13:46; Rev. 21:21.
Pear Used for that which is precious in Matt. 7:6, and in Matt. 13:45-46, for that which Christ sought. In 1 Tim. 2:9; Rev. 17:4; 18:12,16 it refers to the ornaments worn by women. The twelve gates of the heavenly Jerusalem are each a pearl. Rev. 21:21.
Peculiar People A people of God’s choice, peculiarly His. Titus 2:14. In 1 Peter 2:9 JND it is “a people for a possession” (see also Eph. 1:14; Mal. 3:17).
Peeled stripped. Isa. 18:2.
Peep chirp. Isa. 8:19; 10:14.
Pekah open-eyed. He reigned twenty years over Israel. Another wicked king, who, like his predecessor was conspired against and slain. 2 Kings 15.
Pekahiah the Lord has opened his eyes. He reigned two years over Israel. A wicked king, conspired against by his captain and slain. 2 Kings 15.
Pelican This well-known bird was unclean under the law and its flesh forbidden as food. It is generally associated with solitary birds who frequent ruins and desolate places far removed from the haunts of man. Lev. 11:18. Its love of solitude is referred to in Psalm 102:6. In two instances where cormorant is in the text, read pelican. Zeph. 2:14; Isa. 34:11.
Peradventure perhaps. Rom. 5:7.
Perdition “Irrecoverable doom” Phil. 1:28; 1 Tim. 6:9; Heb. 10:39; 2 Peter 3:7; Rev. 17:8,11. Judas and Antichrist are each called “son of perdition.” John 17:12; 2 Thess. 2:3.
Perfect Various Greek words are so translated, the principal one is τελειόω, τέλειος, “full, complete, perfect.” This is applied to the Lord in Hebrews 2:10: to do all required for the office: and in Luke 13:32, by completing His work in death (the same word in reference to the Lord is translated “consecrated” in Heb. 7:28). We are exhorted to be “perfect” as our Father in heaven is “perfect,” that is, complete in being like Him, good to all. Matt. 5:48. The Lord said to the rich young man, “If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast,” etc. Matt. 19:21. It is also applied to a “full grown” man in Ephesians 4:13; (and in 1 Cor. 14:20 is translated “men”: in understanding “be perfect”). The application of the term is various: its meaning must be arrived at by the context.
Perfection This word is used in the Scriptures in a way very different from that usually ascribed to it. Were the believer either perfect in himself or in his ways, there would be no room for the exhortation, “Be ye therefore perfect.” Paul would not venture to affirm that he was perfect, Phil. 3:12, save in Christ risen and glorified. Col. 2:10. We are, however, to be perfect as our Father in heaven is, in the principle of our walk amongst men. Grace should characterize our ways and actions towards all; in this sense only are the words used, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matt. 5:48. This is perfection as to the principle of walk and action in the world. “Perfection” is employed in Heb. 6:1 to express Christian progress and growth, in contrast to the state under Judaism; and in Phil. 3:12-15, it refers to the object set before the Christian — Christ on high and glorified. There is a passage, and a blessed one it is, which declares that we are perfected and that for ever (Heb. 10:14), but that is perfection for God — what we are in His sight — the answer to the present place of Jesus on high as having finished the work which the Father gave Him to do. But our full and absolute perfection in fact will be accomplished only and when “we ... see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. If bodily and moral likeness to Christ (Phil. 3:21 and 1 John 3:2) await His coming, there cannot be perfection short of beholding Christ in glory.
Perga An ancient town of Pamphylia, situate on the river Cestrus. It was twice visited by Paul. Extensive ruins of the city remain. Acts 13:13-14; 14:25.
Pergamos An ancient city of Mysia, in the N.W. of Asia Minor. Also called Pergamon. It once had a population of about 150,000. Rev. 1:11; 2:12. {See Ephesus}
Perilous “dangerous, difficult times.” 2 Tim. 3:1. The same word is translated “fierce” in Matt. 8:28, in reference to the dangerous one possessed with demons. Such is the character of the present time, however smooth Satan may make it appear.
Persis A Christian woman of Rome, who is called by Paul “beloved,” and who laboured much in the Lord. Rom. 16:12.
Peter, Simon Peter, Cephas Simon appears to have been his name at first, and Cephas or Peter to have been given him by the Lord. Luke 5:10; 6:14; John 1:40. He was a fisherman in partnership with James and John. They forsook all and became apostles, of whom Peter had a sort of first place. When a few of the apostles were chosen for any particular service, Peter is always one, and is named first; but beyond this we do not read that he had any authority over the others. Many incidents concerning him are related in the Gospels. He was energetic and impulsive. When he opposed the thought of Christ having to suffer, he was denounced as Satan. Matt. 16:23. His self-confidence led him to deny his Lord, but he was truly repentant, and after the resurrection was personally sifted as to having more love to the Lord than the others had, and was then enjoined to feed and shepherd the sheep and lambs of Christ. The keys of the kingdom were committed to Peter, and we find him preaching the first sermon after the giving of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, when about three thousand souls were added to the assembly; these were Jews. He was also the means of bringing in Cornelius, a Gentile. Thus he opened the kingdom to both Jews and Gentiles. Peter was the apostle to the circumcision, and Paul to the Gentiles, and he seems never to have got quite clear of his Jewish prejudices. Paul had to withstand him to the face at Antioch, “for he was to be blamed,” when he separated himself from the Gentile converts. He confesses that there were some things in Paul’s epistles which were hard to be understood: they would be beyond one who could not break entirely away from Judaism. Peter wrote the two Epistles bearing his name. Tradition says he was crucified at Rome, and was, by his own request, impaled head downwards. It is also recorded that his wife suffered with him.
Pharaoh prince or king. Supreme authority in the world. Common designation of the Egyptian kings, of whom there are at least seven thus titled in the Scriptures. Ex. 1.
Pharisees This term has been supposed to be derived from the Hebrew word, Parash, which signifies “to separate.” The Pharisees separated themselves from the mass of the Jews. Josephus speaks of them as early as the reign of Jonathan (B.C. 161-144). They separated themselves on the plea of superior sanctity of life, devotion to God, and their study of the law. The Pharisee in his prayer, Luke 18, declared that he was not as other men.
Paul, in his defence before King Agrippa, styles the Pharisees, “the most straitest sect,” showing how strict they were to carry out their rules. Josephus says they declared that because of their exactness in religion they were the favourites of heaven. Our Lord lays bare their true state before their eyes: they made the outside of the cup and the platter clean, but their inward part was “full of ravening [plunder] and wickedness.” They paid tithes, it was true, but passed over righteousness and the love of God. They loved the chief places; but they were as covered graves, over which men walked unconsciously, Luke 11:39-44, and became defiled, Num. 19:16.
The Pharisees included all classes of men — rich and poor; they were very numerous, and at times had great influence. See an instance of this in the time of Alexandra. We see that they were well represented in the constitution of the council before whom Paul was arraigned (Acts 23:6).
The peculiar tenets of the Pharisees were these: they held that God was in some way bound to bless the Jews, and make them inherit the kingdom, because of the merits of Abraham, and because of their observance of the law.
They were the great advocates of tradition. It was the Pharisees and scribes who complained to the Lord of the disciples not observing the tradition of the elders; but the Lord showed that by their traditions they transgressed the commandments of God. Matt. 15:1-9; Mark 7:3-13.
They believed in the existence of angels and spirits, and in the resurrection of the dead, though, according to Josephus, they also held the transmigration of souls from one person to another. It has been thought that the disciples even had imbibed this notion by their asking whether the blind man was born blind because of his own sin or that of his parents (John 9:2).
They regarded the tie of marriage in the loosest way, and held that a man could divorce his wife for any cause. Luke 16:14-18.
They held that no person but a Jew could be called a neighbor, and treated all others as enemies. Maimonides has this passage: “A Jew sees a Gentile fall into the sea, let him by no means lift him out; for it is written, ‘Thou shalt not rise up against the blood of thy neighbor.’ But this is not thy neighbor.” This will give great force to the parable of the Good Samaritan, where a Samaritan was to be accounted neighbor to the Jew.
Their professed sanctity with fasting and long prayers is fully borne out by Scripture; but the Lord in a withering way laid bare their true state of wickedness, as well as their great hypocrisy. While they held the common people in contempt they were themselves far worse in God’s sight.
There may have been in the time of our Lord, and before that, great laxity in keeping the law, and obeying its righteousness, that led some to separate themselves, seeking greater holiness; to whom many attached themselves without any such desire, until the great mass of the Pharisees duly merited the severe rebukes of the Lord. Nicodemus, Gamaliel, and Saul we may fain hope were samples of men of a different stamp, though they all needed the regenerating power of grace to give them what they desired.
Phenice A town and harbor in Crete. The vessel in which Paul sailed was attempting to reach this harbor when it was caught by the wind and wrecked. The Authorized Version says the haven “lieth toward the south west and north west”; but the expression is now held to mean that it “looks towards the N.E. and S.E.” Acts 27:12. It has been identified with the modern Lutro. This harbor is described as being open to the east, but a small island lies almost in front of it; it has thus two entrances, one looking to the N.E. and the other to S.E. {See also under Phoenicia.}
Philadelphia A city in Lydia, in the west of Asia Minor. It was built by Attalus Philadelphus, king of Pergamos. Rev. 1:11; 3:7. It has several times been more or less destroyed by earthquakes. It is still a considerable town, named Ala-Shehr. {See Ephesus,}
Philippi A noted city of Macedonia, named after Philip, the father of Alexander the Great. It was a Roman military colony. Here Lydia was converted, and the jailor and his house. The word was so effectual that an assembly was gathered, the first in Europe, and an epistle was written to the saints there. It was called the chief (or rather first) city, not of Macedonia as a whole, but of that part of Macedonia. Acts 16:12; 20:6; Phil. 1:1; 1 Thess. 2:2. Extensive ruins are now all that are left of the city.
Philosophy An effort was made by Satan, acting on the mind of man, to corrupt the truth by mixing therewith worldly wisdom. Col. 2:8; see also 1 Tim. 6:20; 2 Tim. 2:16-18.
Phinehas mouth of brass. Zeal for the glory of God, and its consequent reward. Psa. 106:30-31. Name occurs about 16 times, and only in the Old Testament. Num. 25.
Phoenicia, Phenice, Phenicia Phoenice proper was a narrow strip of land on the Mediterranean extending S. of Tyre and N. of Sidon, but afterward extended far north, and was there much wider. Acts 11:19; 15:3; 21:2.
Phrygia A large district in the center of Asia Minor, having Bithynia on the north, and Pisidia on the south; but its extent varied at different times. Jews from this district were at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost, and Paul twice traversed the plain in his missionary journeys. Acts 2:10; 16:6; 18:23.
Phygellus Named as one of Asia, who had turned away from Paul, though perhaps not an apostate. 2 Tim. 1:15.
Phylactery Short portions of the law written on strips of parchment were rolled up in a piece of calf-skin and worn upon the forehead and left arm, supposed to be in obedience to Deuteronomy 6:8; 11:18. The Pharisees and scribes made them large to attract attention: it was making them broad that was condemned by the Lord. Matt. 23:5. In later times they were worn as charms.
Piety εύσέβεια, ‒βέω, “To exercise piety, reverence.” “Piety” occurs only in the A.V. in 1 Tim. 5:4; it is “holiness” in Acts 3:12; and “worship” in Acts 17:23. In all other places it is “godliness”; but “piety” is a better translation. In 1 Tim. 2:10 “godliness” is θεοσέβεια, worship or fear of God.
Pilate, Pontius Pilate He was appointed governor (procurator) of Judea, with full military and judicial authority, A.D. 25-6. Pilate had his headquarters at Jerusalem instead of Caesarea, which perhaps more easily brought him into conflict with the Jews. Josephus relates that he had outraged the prejudices of the Jews, (see Luke 13:1), before he had anything to do with the trial of the Lord. He could see that the rulers had delivered Jesus out of envy, and determined to scourge Him and let Him go; but the clamour of the Jews was so great that he perhaps tried to find some plausible ground for condemning Him, but had to confess, “I find no fault in Him.” The message from his wife also confirmed his desire to release Him; but the people, as well as the rulers, chose Barabbas instead of Christ; and the rulers declared that Pilate could not be Caesar’s friend if he let the King of the Jews live. This decided the unprincipled judge. He took water, and, washing his hands, declared that he was innocent of the death of that just One; whereupon the rulers uttered that awful expression, “His blood be on us, and on our children.” Matt. 27; Mark 15; Luke 3:1; 13:1; 23; John 18, 19. Complaints from the Samaritans caused Pilate to be sent to Rome to answer the charges, A.D. 36, and he closed his life by his own hand (Josephus, Ant. 18:4, 1, 2.).
Pill to peel. Gen. 30:37-38.
Pillar Symbol of ability to support, uphold, or maintain. Gal. 2:9; 1 Tim. 3:15; Rev. 3:12. Applied to Peter, James, and John, who “seemed to be pillars” in the church at Jerusalem (Gal. 2:9). The church is “the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Tim. 3:15): God’s witness to the truth on earth; that which maintains the truth. The overcomer in Philadelphia will be made a pillar in the temple of God. Rev. 3:12. The mighty angel of Revelation 10:1 has feet as pillars of fire for judgment.
Pine Tree is twice referred to by Isaiah 41:19; 60:13. “It is quite unknown to what tree this term applied.” — Sir Joseph Hooker.
Pins, hooks, cords, etc. Used in the construction of the Tabernacle. A symbol of the believer upheld and maintained by Divine power, variously employed. “Kept by the power of God,” 1 Peter 1:5.
Pisidia A comparatively narrow district in Asia Minor, between Phrygia and Pamphylia. It is a mountainous country, and was inhabited by a wild and lawless people, who were never thoroughly subdued by either the Greeks or the Romans. It was twice visited by Paul, and it may have been here that he experienced the “perils of robbers,” of which he speaks. Acts 13:14; 14:24.
Pit, Bottomless {See Deep.}
Plain homely. Gen. 25:27.
Platter dish. Matt. 23:25.
Plow A symbol of spiritual labour. 1 Cor. 9:10; Luke 9:62.
Plumbline A symbol of exact measurement. Amos 7:7-8.
Poll the head. Num. 1:2.
Poll, to to cut. 2 Sam. 14:26.
Pomegranate grows both wild and cultivated; its bark is used in the tanning of the finest kind of leather, and its beautiful fruit and flower were largely used in the ornamentation of the Sanctuary and in the rich robe of the High Priest.
Pomegranate Tree is one of the most generally useful. The rind, seeds, and other parts form a most useful medicine for various complaints. It produces an exceedingly rich fruit, and the juice a cooling draft or light wine.
Pomegranates A symbol of fruit of a heavenly character. Ex. 28:33-34; Song of Sol. 6:11; 8:2.
Pommel knob. 2 Chron. 4:12.
Pontus The N.E. district of Asia Minor, forming part of the coast of the Euxine Sea. Jews from thence were at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost, and some were addressed as believers by Peter in his first Epistle. It was made a Roman province under Nero Porcius. Acts 2:9; 18:2; 1 Peter 1:1. {See Festus.}
Poplar Tree was used by Jacob, Gen. 30:37, and under its pale and abundant foliage idolatrous rites were anciently practiced. Hos. 4:13.
Potsherd piece of pottery. Job 2:8.
Potter The apparatus employed by the potter in the East is very simple. It is turned by his feet, leaving his hands free to operate on the clay. To see him form a vessel, and if it does not please him, to witness it crushed in a moment, vividly brings before the mind the question, “Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another to dishonour?” Rom. 9:21; Rev. 2:27. What grace to be made “vessels of mercy”! A symbol of Divine sovereignty exercised in grace or judgment. Jer. 18:1-10; Psa. 2:9; Rom. 9:21.
Pound(s) A symbol of talents or gifts for public service. Luke 19.{See Money in Bible Subjects}
Power(s) Several Greek words are translated power: the principal are –
1. δύναμις, “power, energy, ability to act,” without the thought of “authority.” Matt. 22:29; 24:30; 26:64; Luke 4:14; 9:1; 24:49; Rom. 1:4; Eph. 1:19; etc. The disciples were to tarry at Jerusalem until they had received such power by the gift of the Holy Spirit.
2. έξουσία, “power, right, privilege,” with the thought of “authority,” which is sometimes the best word by which to translate it. Matt. 9:6; 10:1; Luke 4:6; 12:11; John 19:11; Acts 26:18; Rom 13:1-3; Eph. 1:21; Col. 1:13; Rev. 13:12, etc. Christ gave such power or right to become sons of God to those that received him (John 1:12). Pilate could have no such authority to judge Christ unless it had been given him from above. The “powers” that be are ordained of God.
Prayer In a general way prayer may be said to be intercourse of a dependent one with God. Our Lord often went aside privately to pray, and we read of one occasion when He spent the whole night in prayer to God. Luke 6:12. In John 17 the Lord rehearsed various things that He had done, basing petitions thereon. We are exhorted to make known our petitions, or requests, to God, and the peace of God shall keep our hearts and minds, Phil. 4:6-7; and there are the groanings begotten by the Holy Spirit which we cannot put into words, Rom. 8:26; and also a holy intercourse with the Father and the Lord Jesus, respecting our own souls, and concerning all the joys and sorrows connected with the church and with service therein, and also respecting the glorious gospel in the world. We must ask in faith. Mark 11:24; James 1:5-7. We should ask in the name of the Lord Jesus, and on His behalf, John 14:13; 15:16; 16:23,26); and what is according to His will, 1 John 5:14-15. “Supplications” are at times joined with prayers. Acts 1:14; Eph. 6:18; Phil. 4:6; 1 Tim. 2:1; 5:5; Heb. 5:7. It is not easy to gather the difference between “supplications” and “prayers,” except that the former may imply asking for something, which the latter does not necessarily imply.
Preacher κήρυξ, “a herald.” Paul said he was appointed a preacher, a herald. 1 Tim. 2:7; 2 Tim. 1:11. Noah was a herald of righteousness. 2 Peter 2:5.
Preaching Often used in the N.T. for simply “making known,” without the idea of formal preaching as now understood. Matt. 11:1; Mark 1:4,7; Luke 4:18; Acts 8:4; 2 Peter 2:5.
Precious rare. 1 Sam. 3:1.
Predestinate προορίζω, “To mark out beforehand, predetermine.” In Rom. 8:29-30 those foreknown by God (not foreseen to be better than others) are declared to be predestinated to be conformed to the image of God’s Son. In Eph. 1:5 believers are predestinated to the adoption of sons, according to the purpose of God, who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will. Eph 1:11. Predestination is to a blessing; election is God’s choice of individuals, embracing Christ as the corner stone, 1 Peter 2:6; angels, 1 Tim. 5:21; saints in the present dispensation, Rom. 8:33; and the Jewish remnant, Matt. 24:22,24,31. Predestination and election are not the same, although closely and intimately connected; the former secures the blessing, the latter the person. Election refers to God’s sovereign choice of individuals, but predestination goes a step beyond, and applies to what I am set apart to in the Divine purpose. Hence we are predestinated “to be conformed to the image of His Son.” Rom. 8:29. We have the security of the believer founded on the eternal and sovereign choice of God in Ephesians 1:4; and the wondrous place of blessing to which he is set apart as securely founded on the truth of predestination. Eph. 1:5. Both “election” and “predestination” are founded solely on God’s own purpose and will, both according to His grace, and both the fruit of the Divine mind before the world began.
Presbytery {See Elders, in “Offices and Gifts in the Church,”}
Presently at once. Matt. 26:53.
Pressfat vat in which fruit is pressed. Hag. 2:16.
Prevent go before. 1 Thess. 4:15.
Pricks pads. A symbol of sharp troubles. Acts 9:5; Num. 33:55.
Priest One who presents gifts and offerings to God, Matt. 8:4; Heb. 8:4; 1 Peter 2:5, etc. We meet with chief priests (in the plural). It is supposed that any who had been high priests were termed “chief priests” afterward. The Lord Jesus was not a priest on earth, Heb. 8:4, nor of the order of Aaron, Heb. 7:14); though He offered Himself to God, Heb. 9:14, the antitype of the action of Aaron on the day of Atonement for the nation; He was really offerer, offering and priest in His own Person, and is now the Christian’s great High Priest above, Heb. 4:14-16; {See also Melchisedec}). The Christian also is a priest, Rev. 1:6; 1 Pet. 2:9; Heb. 10:19; Rom. 12:1; and has access to God at all times.
Priesthood Since the rending of the Temple vail from top to bottom, a special class of persons on earth, exercising priestly functions according to God, no longer exists. The whole system of which an earthly priesthood formed an integral part has passed away. Heb. 8:13. Hebrews 7 shows an earthly priesthood set aside, and a heavenly one established; Hebrews 8 puts the covenants before us, contrasting them. The old covenant is dismissed, and the new covenant introduced. Hebrews 9 contrasts the sacrifices; the one sacrifice of Christ being of Divine and permanent value, superseding the many sacrifices and offerings which could never take away sins. But the Levitical system, with a temple larger and far more glorious, and sacrifices commemorative in their character with a priesthood established in the house of Zadok, will be set up in the millennium, carefully adapted to the new state of things. Ezek. 40-46. But during the present interval of grace — after the entire abolition of Judaism, and before the inauguration of the new system — Christianity has come in, and the revelation of an order of priesthood, unlike what was or will be. Now all Christians are priests. All have an equal title to draw near, as saith the apostle, “Let us draw near.” Heb. 10:22. Paul’s preeminent place as an apostle did not confer upon him any special place as a priest or worshipper. There is but one High Priest, even Jesus, sitting at the right hand of God; and all saints have been constituted worshippers and priests. Thus the church can sing, “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father.” Rev. 1:5-6. What are the sacrifices which as priests we offer? The priests’ guide-book under the law was the book of Leviticus: our guide-book and directory is the epistle to the Hebrews. Turning to it, therefore, we learn that our sacrifices are praise to God and practical benevolence to man. Heb. 13:15-16. Further, all Christians are regarded as a holy priesthood in offering up spiritual sacrifices to God, 1 Peter 2:5, and a royal priesthood in displaying the moral virtues of Jesus to man. 1 Peter 2:9.
The priesthood of Christ is exercised on high, is founded on His work and person, and is unchangeable. Its object is to sustain believers in their walk, service, and worship, to afford succour in temptation, and sympathy in suffering. Priesthood is to sustain; Advocacy is to restore. Christ is exercising His functions as a priest according to the pattern of Aaron, but according to the everlasting order of Melchisedek. Heb. 7.
Principality A description of high powers in the unseen world, described as being in the heavenlies. Eph. 3:10. They were created by the Lord Jesus, and He is head of them all. Col. 1:16; 2:10. Some fell from the position given them; they kept not their first estate or principality. Jude 6. Others contend against the saints in the heavenlies. Eph. 6:12. The Lord spoiled them on the cross, Col. 2:15, and at His resurrection was raised by God far above all created powers.(Eph. 1:21.
Prisca, Priscilla The wife of Aquila, both of whom Paul calls “my fellow-workmen in Christ Jesus.” Rom. 16:3 JnD. They were with Paul at Corinth, and travelled with him to Ephesus, where they were enabled to “expound unto Apollos the way of God more perfectly.” Priscilla is at times named before her husband. Acts 18:2,18,26; Rom. 16:3; 1 Cor. 16:19; 2 Tim. 4:19.
Prison Refers to a Roman prison. Matt. 14:3,10; 18:30. In Acts 12:4-10 Peter was bound by two chains, and lay asleep between two soldiers, with guards before the door to keep all safe. The angel led him through a first and second guard to the outer “iron gate” that led into the city. Acts 16:24 speaks of the “inner prison” which agrees with the above. There are spirits kept in prison. 1 Pet. 3:19. The abyss in which Satan is to be cast for the thousand years is also called a prison. Rev. 20:7.
Prize The Christian race is illustrated by the Grecian contests for prizes: “one receiveth the prize”: it was a corruptible crown (said to be a garland of olive, apple, pine, or parsley): the Christian’s is an incorruptible crown. 1 Cor. 9:24-27. The prize Paul was looking forward to, was to be with and like the Lord. Phil. 3:14.
Prochorus One of the seven chosen to look after the poor saints: nothing more is recorded of him. Acts 6:5.
Proper comely, fair. Heb. 11:23.
Prophet πρόφήτης. 1 Cor. 12:28. It is clear that in the early days of the church there were prophets who foretold events. Acts 11:27-28; 21:9-11. There was also another kind of prophesying, namely, speaking unto men “to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.” In prophesying they edified the church. 1 Cor. 14:3-4. The Word of God is brought home to heart and conscience by this gift, 1 Cor. 14:25, so that the soul of the hearer is brought into contact with God Himself through the Word spoken.
Propitiation ίλασμίς, from “to be propitious.” The aspect of Christ”s death that vindicates the holy and righteous character of God, and enables Him to be merciful to the whole world, while it extends to the sins of believers. 1 John 2:2; 4:10. A kindred word (the verb) occurs in Hebrews 2:17, which should be translated “to make propitiation for the sins of the people.” In Romans 3:25 is another kindred word, which should be translated ‘mercy-seat,’ as it is, and must be, in Hebrews 9:5. Atonement is the expression of the united aspect of the cross towards God and towards man. Thus in the yearly return of that solemn and deeply impressive atonement-day, Lev. 16, two goats were presented before the Lord, the one was Jehovah’s lot, while the other was for the people. One was killed and its blood carried within the veil and sprinkled once upon the mercy-seat, and seven times before it. The other was presented alive before the Lord, and the sins of the people confessed over it by the high priest. Now those two parts of Christ’s work — glorifying God by the shed and sprinkled blood, and bearing away the sins of the people — when regarded as a whole, constitute atonement. If considered separately, however, propitiation would answer to that blessed work done within the veil and before the eye of God; while substitution would refer to the transference of sins to the head of the scape-goat and its dismissal to a land not inhabited. Propitiation is for God, and for Him alone, although it vitally concerns us. It is the blessed answer of Jesus meeting, in death and before God, the holy and righteous claims of Jehovah’s throne. God has been infinitely glorified, and His moral government gloriously vindicated in the blood-shedding of Jesus. Christ is now God’s propitiatory or mercy-seat. Rom. 3:25; 1 John 2:2. In Hebrews 2:17 read “propitiation,” not “reconciliation.”
Proselyte The scribes and Pharisees showed great zeal in making proselytes. Matt. 23:15. The heathen who professed Judaism were called proselytes. Acts 2:10; 6:5; 13:43. The Rabbis hold that there were two classes, “proselytes of the gate,” from Exodus 20:10, who under certain promises were admitted as strangers; and “proselytes of righteousness,” who were also circumcised. But this distinction is not found in the law.
Proverb A sentence in which there is a hidden meaning, or a wider application than the simple words imply. Luke 4:23; John 16:25,29; 2 Peter 2:22.
Provoke to stimulate. Rom. 10:19.
Psalm Besides its application to the Psalms of David, the term is used for any hymn of praise. 1 Cor. 14:26; Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; James 5:13.
Ptolemais A maritime town in Israel 32° 55' N. Acts 21:7. Its name was Accho, but was changed by the Ptolemies. Napoleon called it the key of Palestine, and it has been the scene of several sieges. It is now called Acre or Akka.
Publicans Those who farmed the taxes by paying a fixed sum for a certain district, and kept what was collected over; they then either employed others as collectors, or re-farmed smaller districts. As the yoke of the Romans was very galling, the Jews who undertook to collect the taxes were looked upon as unworthy of the least respect, and were treated as extortioners, which perhaps some of them were (see Luke 3:13; 19:8).
Publius The chief man in the island of Melita, when Paul was shipwrecked, who received and lodged the company courteously for three days. Paul healed his sick father. Acts 28:7-8.
Pulse pod-bearing plants, as peas, beans. Dan. 1:12,16 .
Purchase The church has been purchased by the blood of God’s Son, Acts 20:28; even false teachers spreading their damnable heresies have been bought by the Lord (2 Peter 2:1) and so their judgment will be all the more swift and sure. Christ has tasted death for everything (see Greek of Heb. 2:9). Christ has bought the world. God loved it, John 3:16, and Christ bought it, Matt. 13:44. Thus the world has been loved and bought. Redemption is a very different thing from “purchase”; the former refers to a change of state or condition, while the latter merely intimates a change of masters. You may purchase a slave, but that is not deliverance from the state of slavery. “Until the redemption (future) of the purchased (past) possession.” Eph. 1:14. The creation is purchased, but its redemption is yet future; that will be effected when it passes from bondage to liberty, from groans to praises, and from pain to rest. Rom. 8:19-22.
Purple A Symbol of royalty, among Gentiles especially. John 19:2; Ex. 25:4.They clothed the Lord in a robe of this colour in mockery. Mark 15:17,20. Rome is described as clothed in royalty as well as worldly grandeur. Symbol of imperialism. Rev. 17:4; 18:12,16. {See also Scarlet.}
Purtenance entrails. Ex. 12:9.
Puteoli A port in Italy on the N.E. of the Bay of Naples, and where Paul landed on his way to Rome. Acts 28:13. The city was sacked by Alaric and Genseric, and never recovered.
Pygarg This clean animal is of the antelope species. Some have identified the “pygarg” with the beautiful antelope known as the “addox,” an inhabitant of Northern Africa, and from the derivation of the Hebrew word it may be so. Deut. 14:5. The margin reads bison, which is incorrect.