Daily Bread

1 John 3:17 - "But he who has this world's living and sees his brother in need and shuts off his inward parts from him, how does the love of God dwell in him."

The Greek word 'splanchna' which is translated "inward parts" here, translates Hebrew words in the Septuagint such as, 'beten', "belly" and 'rechem', "womb". This word is considered to be allegorical in describing the emotions. The KJV translated 'splanchna' as "inward affection" in 2 Co. 7:15. In Philippians 1:8 Paul said, "I long after you all in the splanchna of Jesus Christ". Another similar anatomical word was used in John 7:38 to describe the Holy Spirit flowing out of the belly is the word 'koilia' from which colon is derived. Its usage in classical Greek implies deep passion and emotions. Though some have attempted to distinguish between the allegorical meanings of splanchna (intestines), kolia (belly), and nefros (kidney), it is extremely doubtful whether this is really possible or practical. The semantic focus in the use of these terms is clearly the deeper and more intimate feelings and emotions. What is certain is the realms of God flows forth from the deepest regions of our feelings, living nothing superficial or fake about our actions. We no longer do things out of a legal obligation but are motivated and moved by the Holy Spirit in our deepest desires. In some languages one can use a term, which literally means "belly" or "bowels", but more often than not, these emotions are associated with some particular organ of the body such as heart, spleen, liver, etc. Rather, than attempting to employ a figurative expression which may or may not be fully equivalent, it is often preferable to refer to the emotional content by using terms such as "feelings", "intents", "desires", or "compassion", depending upon the context. (Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament based on Semantic Domains, (New York: United Bible Societies) 1988, 1989.)

Blessings,

Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org