Welcome to FaithTime’s Bible Glossary. Here you’ll find clear, biblically grounded definitions for important terms beginning with the letter C, complete with Scripture references and explanations to enrich your study and spiritual growth.
Cain
Definition: The first son of Adam and Eve, known for committing the first murder by killing his brother Abel out of jealousy.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 4:1-8
Simple Meaning: Cain represents sin, jealousy, and the consequences of turning away from God.
Calvary
Definition: The hill outside Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified, also called Golgotha.
Scripture Reference: Luke 23:33
Simple Meaning: Calvary symbolizes the place of Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity’s sins.
Canaan
Definition: The Promised Land given by God to Abraham and his descendants, representing God’s provision and covenant faithfulness.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 17:8
Simple Meaning: Canaan is both a literal land and a symbol of God’s promise and blessing.
Capernaum
Definition: A town on the Sea of Galilee where Jesus performed many miracles and taught in the synagogue.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:13
Simple Meaning: Capernaum highlights Jesus’ ministry and the importance of faith in His teachings.
Captain of the Lord’s Host
Definition: A title referring to a divine commander or angel leading God’s heavenly armies.
Scripture Reference: Joshua 5:14
Simple Meaning: This title emphasizes God’s authority, power, and guidance in spiritual battles.
Census
Definition: An official count of the population, often for taxation or military purposes; in the Bible, it also reflects God’s sovereignty over His people.
Scripture Reference: Luke 2:1-3
Simple Meaning: Biblical censuses remind us that God knows every individual and orchestrates history.
Chaldeans
Definition: A people of ancient Mesopotamia who played a key role in the Babylonian Empire and the exile of Israel.
Scripture Reference: Daniel 1:4
Simple Meaning: Chaldeans represent foreign powers that challenged God’s people but were ultimately under His control.
Christ
Definition: The Anointed One, Messiah, or Savior promised in the Old Testament and fulfilled in Jesus.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 16:16
Simple Meaning: Christ is God’s chosen one who brings salvation to humanity.
Church
Definition: The collective body of believers in Christ, called to worship, serve, and spread the Gospel.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 16:18
Simple Meaning: The Church is God’s family on earth, united in faith and mission.
Circumcision
Definition: A physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, later also used metaphorically for spiritual purity and commitment.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 17:10-11
Simple Meaning: Circumcision represents dedication to God, both physically and spiritually.
Clarion Call
Definition: A clear, strong, and urgent message or warning from God, often calling people to repentance or action.
Scripture Reference: Joel 2:1
Simple Meaning: God calls His people with clarity and urgency to respond faithfully.
Cleansing
Definition: The act of removing sin or impurity, spiritually or ritually, often associated with forgiveness and sanctification.
Scripture Reference: 1 John 1:7-9
Simple Meaning: Cleansing restores fellowship with God and renews the believer’s heart.
Commandments
Definition: God’s instructions for righteous living, including the Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
Scripture Reference: Exodus 20:1-17
Simple Meaning: Commandments guide believers in living in accordance with God’s will.
Confession
Definition: Acknowledging and admitting sin or faith, either to God or publicly, as a step toward repentance and restoration.
Scripture Reference: 1 John 1:9
Simple Meaning: Confession brings forgiveness, cleansing, and renewed relationship with God.
Consecration
Definition: Setting apart someone or something for God’s service, dedicating life, property, or objects to holy purposes.
Scripture Reference: Exodus 28:41
Simple Meaning: Consecration signifies commitment and devotion to God.
Covenant
Definition: A solemn agreement or promise made by God with His people, often including blessings and obligations.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 9:9-17
Simple Meaning: Covenants demonstrate God’s faithfulness and the commitment expected from His people.
Cross
Definition: The instrument of Jesus’ crucifixion, symbolizing sacrifice, redemption, and the central act of salvation.
Scripture Reference: Luke 23:33
Simple Meaning: The Cross represents God’s love and the forgiveness available through Jesus.
Cry of the Heart
Definition: A deep, earnest prayer or plea directed to God, expressing need, repentance, or worship.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 34:17
Simple Meaning: God listens to sincere cries from His people and responds with help and comfort.
Curse
Definition: A pronouncement of judgment, misfortune, or divine punishment, often associated with disobedience or sin.
Scripture Reference: Deuteronomy 28:15
Simple Meaning: Curses show the consequences of turning away from God’s commands.
Custodian of the Temple
Definition: Individuals appointed to care for the temple, its rituals, and its sacred objects in the Old Testament.
Scripture Reference: 1 Chronicles 9:22
Simple Meaning: Temple custodians illustrate responsibility, service, and reverence for God’s house.
Cephas
Definition: The Aramaic name given by Jesus to Simon Peter, meaning “rock,” symbolizing his foundational role in the early church.
Scripture Reference: John 1:42
Simple Meaning: Cephas signifies strength and steadfastness as a leader among Jesus’ disciples.
Cherubim
Definition: Angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God, often depicted as guardians of holy places.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 3:24
Simple Meaning: Cherubim symbolize God’s holiness and guarded His sacred spaces.
Chiasmus
Definition: A literary device frequently used in Hebrew poetry and Scripture that presents ideas in a mirrored or inverted order to emphasize key themes.
Scripture Reference: Examples found throughout Psalms and Proverbs.
Simple Meaning: Chiasmus helps highlight important messages by repeating ideas in a structured pattern.
Christology
Definition: The study of the person and work of Jesus Christ, focusing on His divine and human nature, mission, and role in salvation.
Scripture Reference: Colossians 1:15-20
Simple Meaning: Christology explores who Jesus is and what He accomplished for humanity.
Circumciser
Definition: A term used in the New Testament to describe those who insisted on physical circumcision as necessary for salvation.
Scripture Reference: Galatians 5:12
Simple Meaning: Circumcisers represent legalistic thinking contrary to faith in Christ.
Cleave
Definition: To cling closely or faithfully to someone or something, often used to describe a committed relationship.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 2:24
Simple Meaning: Cleaving means holding tightly to God or loved ones in loyalty and love.
Comforter
Definition: A title Jesus gave to the Holy Spirit, emphasizing His role in counseling, encouraging, and strengthening believers.
Scripture Reference: John 14:26
Simple Meaning: The Comforter is God’s presence with us, bringing peace and guidance.
Confidant
Definition: Someone trusted with private matters or who provides spiritual encouragement and counsel.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 27:17
Simple Meaning: A confidant supports growth and honesty in relationships.
Consummation
Definition: The final fulfillment or completion of God’s redemptive plan at the end of history.
Scripture Reference: Revelation 21:6
Simple Meaning: Consummation is when God’s kingdom is fully realized and restored.
Covenant Confirmed
Definition: To establish or reaffirm a binding agreement or promise between God and His people through a ritual or statement.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 15:18
Simple Meaning: Covenant confirmation strengthens God’s promises and our commitment.
Corban
Definition: A gift dedicated to God, sometimes misused to avoid family duties.
Scripture Reference: Mark 7:11
Simple Meaning: Corban warns against religious excuses for neglecting love.
Cush
Definition: Ancient region south of Egypt, home of faithful believers like the eunuch.
Scripture Reference: Acts 8:27
Simple Meaning: God’s kingdom includes distant lands and humble seekers.
Cyrene
Definition: North African city whose sons spread the gospel boldly.
Scripture Reference: Acts 13:1
Simple Meaning: God calls diverse nations to proclaim His Word.
Cana
Definition: Village where Jesus turned water into wine, launching His signs.
Scripture Reference: John 2:1
Simple Meaning: Cana reveals Jesus’ transforming power in ordinary moments.
Cyprus
Definition: Island where Barnabas preached and Paul began missionary journeys.
Scripture Reference: Acts 13:4
Simple Meaning: Cyprus shows God guiding ministry across seas.
Caiaphas
Definition: High priest who prophesied unwittingly about Jesus’ atoning death.
Scripture Reference: John 11:50
Simple Meaning: God uses even enemies to fulfill His redemptive plan.
Carmel
Definition: Mountain where Elijah proved Yahweh alone is God.
Scripture Reference: 1 Kings 18:19
Simple Meaning: Carmel displays God’s fire consuming false worship.
Chinnereth
Definition: Ancient name for the Sea of Galilee, scene of Jesus’ miracles.
Scripture Reference: Numbers 34:11
Simple Meaning: Chinnereth witnesses Christ calming storms and calling disciples.
Cilicia
Definition: Paul’s home region where he persecuted then proclaimed Christ.
Scripture Reference: Acts 9:30
Simple Meaning: God transforms persecutors into passionate witnesses.
Caleb
Definition: Faithful spy who trusted God to conquer giants at age 85.
Scripture Reference: Joshua 14:12
Simple Meaning: Caleb models lifelong courage rooted in God’s promises.
