Topical Encyclopedia The term "high-born" refers to individuals of noble or royal lineage, often associated with positions of authority, privilege, and influence. In the biblical context, high-born individuals are frequently mentioned in relation to their roles in governance, leadership, and the unfolding of God's divine plan.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, high-born individuals often include kings, princes, and members of the royal family. These figures are typically seen as having been placed in their positions by divine providence. For example, King David, though initially a shepherd, was chosen by God to be king over Israel, establishing a royal lineage that would lead to the birth of Jesus Christ. The prophet Samuel anointed David, signifying God's choice (1 Samuel 16:12-13). The book of Proverbs frequently addresses the behavior and responsibilities of those in high positions. Proverbs 31:4-5 advises, "It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to crave strong drink, lest they drink and forget what is decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of justice." This passage underscores the expectation that high-born individuals should exercise wisdom and justice. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of high-born takes on a spiritual dimension. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often contrasts earthly status with spiritual status. In 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 , Paul writes, "Brothers, consider the time of your calling: Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were powerful; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly and despised things of the world, and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast in His presence." This passage highlights the Christian teaching that spiritual nobility, characterized by humility and faith, is of greater value than earthly nobility. The high-born, in the spiritual sense, are those who are born again into the family of God, regardless of their earthly status. Role in Society and the Church High-born individuals in biblical times were often expected to lead by example, demonstrating righteousness and justice. The responsibilities of leadership were seen as a divine mandate, with the expectation that those in power would uphold God's laws and care for the people. This is evident in the instructions given to kings in Deuteronomy 17:18-20 , where they are commanded to write for themselves a copy of the law and read it all the days of their life to learn to fear the Lord and follow His commandments. In the early church, the emphasis shifted from earthly nobility to spiritual leadership. The qualifications for church leaders, such as elders and deacons, focused on character and faithfulness rather than social status (1 Timothy 3:1-13). Conclusion The biblical perspective on high-born individuals encompasses both the responsibilities associated with earthly nobility and the spiritual calling of all believers to live as children of God. While earthly status may confer certain privileges and responsibilities, the ultimate measure of nobility in the Bible is one's relationship with God and adherence to His commandments. Library Treatise on Good Works Letter cxxvii. To Principia. Letter cxxx. To Demetrias. Letter cxxviii. To Gaudentius. Letter cxxiii. To Ageruchia. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... The Good Samaritan The Tournament at Constantinople. Luther Before the Diet Luther Before the Diet. Thesaurus Highborn (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (a.) of noble birth. Multi-Version Concordance Highborn (1 Occurrence). Psalms 62:9 Men of low degree are ... /h/highborn.htm - 6k High-born (2 Occurrences) Generous (17 Occurrences) Powerful (93 Occurrences) Hiram (21 Occurrences) Higher (73 Occurrences) High (4559 Occurrences) Resources What year was Jesus Christ born? When was Jesus born? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was Jesus born in a manger? | GotQuestions.org Who was Annas in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance High-born (2 Occurrences)Luke 19:12 1 Corinthians 1:26 Subtopics Related Terms Corresponding (17 Occurrences) |
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