Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of an embassy or diplomatic mission, as understood in modern terms, was not explicitly defined. However, the Bible does provide instances where envoys or messengers were sent to represent the interests of a king or nation, which can be seen as a form of ancient diplomacy.Old Testament Instances 1. Envoys and Messengers: The Old Testament frequently mentions the use of envoys or messengers to convey messages between kings and nations. For example, in 2 Samuel 10:1-5, King David sent envoys to express sympathy to Hanun, the king of the Ammonites, upon the death of his father. However, the envoys were humiliated, leading to conflict. This incident illustrates the delicate nature of diplomatic missions and the potential for misunderstanding. 2. Hezekiah and the Babylonian Envoys: In 2 Kings 20:12-19 and Isaiah 39:1-8, King Hezekiah received envoys from Babylon. He showed them all his treasures, which later led to Isaiah prophesying the Babylonian captivity. This event highlights the role of envoys in international relations and the potential consequences of their visits. 3. The Gibeonite Deception: In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites sent envoys to make a treaty with Israel by pretending to be from a distant land. This account demonstrates the use of envoys in treaty-making and the importance of discernment in diplomatic engagements. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not explicitly mention embassies, the concept of ambassadorship is present in a spiritual sense. The Apostle Paul refers to himself as an ambassador for Christ. In 2 Corinthians 5:20 , Paul writes, "Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God." Here, the term "ambassador" is used metaphorically to describe the role of Christians in representing the kingdom of God and spreading the message of reconciliation through Christ. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, diplomatic missions were crucial for maintaining alliances, negotiating peace, and establishing treaties. Envoys were often chosen for their wisdom, eloquence, and ability to navigate complex political landscapes. They carried messages, gifts, and sometimes tribute, serving as the voice and presence of their sovereigns in foreign courts. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the concept of an embassy can be seen as a reflection of God's desire for reconciliation and peace among nations. The use of envoys in the Bible underscores the importance of communication, understanding, and the pursuit of harmonious relationships. In the New Testament, the idea of Christians as ambassadors for Christ emphasizes the call to represent God's kingdom on earth, advocating for spiritual reconciliation and embodying the values of the gospel. Conclusion While the Bible does not provide a detailed framework for embassies as understood today, the principles of diplomacy, representation, and ambassadorship are evident throughout the scriptures. These instances offer valuable insights into the biblical worldview on international relations and the spiritual calling of believers to act as representatives of God's kingdom. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The public function of an ambassador; the charge or business entrusted to an ambassador or to envoys; a public message to; foreign court concerning state affairs; hence, any solemn message.2. (n.) The person or persons sent as ambassadors or envoys; the ambassador and his suite; envoys. 3. (n.) The residence or office of an ambassador. Greek 4242. presbeia -- age, seniority ... age, seniority. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: presbeia Phonetic Spelling: (pres-bi'-ah) Short Definition: an embassy, delegation Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4242.htm - 6k Library A Solemn Embassy How He Received an Embassy from the Persians and Kept the Night ... Embassy and Presents from the Indians. Philo's Embassy to Caius in Behalf of the Jews. Embassy from John in Prison to Jesus --Death of John --Relations ... Innocent the Bishop of the Presbytery of Rome. He Sent an Embassy ... Concerning Valentinian the Younger and Gratian. Persecution under ... On the Departure of Flavian, Bishop of Antioch, who was Gone on an ... Exaction of Tribute in Antioch, and Demolition of the Statues of ... That He Wrote Also to the King of Persia, who had Sent Him an ... Thesaurus Embassy (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Embassy (2 Occurrences). Luke 14:32 and if not, while he is yet far off, having sent an embassy, he asks for terms of peace. ... /e/embassy.htm - 7k Numenius Eliezer (14 Occurrences) Embassadors (8 Occurrences) Septuagint Zobah (15 Occurrences) Nahash (9 Occurrences) Jephthah (26 Occurrences) Lud (10 Occurrences) Ludim (3 Occurrences) Resources Should Jerusalem be the capital of modern-day Israel? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Athenagoras of Athens? | GotQuestions.org Who was Philo of Alexandria? | GotQuestions.org Embassy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Embassy (2 Occurrences)Luke 14:32 Luke 19:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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