Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the "hand" often symbolizes power, authority, and action. The hand of God, in particular, is frequently depicted as a representation of His unlimited power and divine intervention in the world. This imagery is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating God's sovereignty and His active role in the affairs of humanity.Divine Power and Authority The hand of God is a powerful symbol of His authority and might. In the book of Exodus, the hand of God is instrumental in delivering the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. Exodus 13:3 states, "Remember this day, the day you came out of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. For the LORD brought you out of it by the strength of His hand." Here, the hand of God is depicted as the force that liberates and redeems His people, demonstrating His supreme power over earthly rulers. Creation and Sustenance The hand of God is also associated with creation and sustenance. In Psalm 95:4-5 , it is written, "In His hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to Him. The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land." This passage highlights God's creative power, emphasizing that the entire universe is under His control and care, crafted by His hands. Protection and Deliverance The protective and delivering power of God's hand is a recurring theme in Scripture. In Isaiah 41:10 , God reassures His people, saying, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." This verse underscores the idea that God's hand is a source of strength and support, offering protection and deliverance to those who trust in Him. Judgment and Justice The hand of God is also a symbol of judgment and justice. In Daniel 5:5 , during the feast of Belshazzar, "the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall of the king’s palace, opposite the lampstand." This mysterious hand delivered a message of impending judgment, demonstrating God's authority to execute justice and hold individuals accountable for their actions. Healing and Restoration In the New Testament, the hand of Jesus is often associated with healing and restoration. In Mark 1:41 , Jesus, moved with compassion, "reached out His hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' He said, 'Be clean!'" The act of Jesus extending His hand to heal the sick illustrates His divine power to restore and renew, offering a glimpse of the kingdom of God breaking into the world. Empowerment and Commissioning The hand of God also signifies empowerment and commissioning for service. In Acts 11:21 , it is recorded, "The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord." Here, the hand of God empowers the early church, enabling the spread of the Gospel and the growth of the Christian community. Throughout the Bible, the hand is a multifaceted symbol of God's unlimited power, encompassing creation, protection, judgment, healing, and empowerment. It serves as a reminder of His active presence and sovereign authority in the world. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 59:1Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: Nave's Topical Index Library Christ's Kingly Office Stephen's vision Article xxviii (xiv): of Ecclesiastical Power. The Personality of Power. The Praying that Glorifies God St John the Baptist The Spirit and Power of Elias. The Second Day in Passion-Week - the Barren Fig-Tree - the ... The Power of Feeble Faith Chapter xliii Resources What is the right hand of fellowship (Galatians 2:9)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the hand of Hamsa? | GotQuestions.org Why did oaths involve putting a hand under someone's thigh (Genesis 24:9)? | GotQuestions.org Hand: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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