Aging
Holman Bible Dictionary [1]
Old Testament References to aging persons in the Old Testament stress the physiological changes of aging ( 1 Kings 14:4; 2 Samuel 19:35; Ecclesiastes 12:1-5; Zechariah 8:4 ), the wisdom of the aging ( Deuteronomy 32:7; Job 12:12 ), the honor due the aging ( Exodus 20:12; Leviticus 19:32 ), and the continuing service of the aging ( Genesis 12-50 , the patriarchs; Joshua 13:1; Joshua 14:10; Psalm 92:14; Joel 2:28 ). Aging is presented as a normal part of the biblical view of the life cycle ( Psalm 90:10; Isaiah 46:4 ). See Elder .
New Testament References to aging persons in the New Testament focus on the responsibility of children or the family of faith to care for dependent or disabled aging persons ( Mark 7:1-13; Matthew 15:1-6; 1 Timothy 5:4 , 1 Timothy 5:8; James 1:27 ). The young are urged to honor the aging ( 1 Timothy 5:1-2 ), and the aging are encouraged to be worthy examples ( Titus 2:2-3 ). Christians are expected to care for widows ( Acts 6:1-7 ), and the aging are expected to serve God as did Zechariah, Elizabeth, Simeon, and Anna in Luke 1-2 . Such service by the aging can bring blessings to their families, as did Timothy's grandmother and mother ( 2 Timothy 1:5 ).
Practical Concerns The biblical view of aging is unequivocally positive, though allowing for foolish elderly ( Ecclesiastes 4:13 ). Generally older persons have a reservoir of wisdom and understanding based on past experience ( Deuteronomy 32:7 ). They can experience new family joys, even after many previous sad experiences ( Ruth 4:13-17 ). Both youth and age have their unique worth; they are not in competition ( Proverbs 20:29 ). While advancing age results in diminishing strength ( Ecclesiastes 12:1-8 ), God's grace and help are ever the same ( Isaiah 46:4 ).
Many promises of the New Testament have special meaning for older persons ( John 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:55-58 ).
Douglas Anderson
Webster's Dictionary [2]
(p. pr. & vb. n.) of Age
