Topical Bible: Regency: General Scriptures Concerning

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The concept of regency, while not explicitly named in the Bible, can be understood through the lens of governance, authority, and stewardship as depicted in various scriptural narratives. Regency involves the administration of a kingdom or domain on behalf of a sovereign, often during the sovereign's absence or minority. This theme is reflected in several biblical accounts where individuals are entrusted with authority and responsibility.

1. Joseph as Regent in Egypt:

Joseph's rise to power in Egypt serves as a prime example of regency. After interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph is appointed as second-in-command, effectively acting as a regent over Egypt. Genesis 41:40-41 states, "You shall be in charge of my house, and all my people are to obey your commands. Only with regard to the throne will I be greater than you. Pharaoh also told Joseph, 'I hereby place you over all the land of Egypt.'" Joseph's stewardship during the years of plenty and famine illustrates the responsibilities and authority of a regent.

2. The Parable of the Ten Minas:

In the New Testament, Jesus' parable of the ten minas reflects the concept of regency. In Luke 19:12-13 , Jesus tells of a nobleman who goes to a distant country to receive a kingdom and entrusts his servants with his wealth, saying, "A man of noble birth went to a distant country to lay claim to his kingship and then return. Beforehand, he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. 'Conduct business with this until I return,' he said." This parable highlights the expectation of faithful stewardship and accountability in the absence of the sovereign.

3. The Role of Stewards:

The Bible frequently addresses the role of stewards, who act as regents over their master's household or affairs. In 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 , Paul writes, "So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful." This passage underscores the importance of faithfulness and responsibility in managing what has been entrusted by the true owner.

4. The Authority of Kings and Leaders:

Throughout the Old Testament, kings and leaders are depicted as regents under God's ultimate sovereignty. In 1 Samuel 10:1 , Samuel anoints Saul as king, saying, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" This anointing signifies that earthly rulers govern as representatives of God's authority, accountable to Him for their leadership.

5. Christ's Reign and the Church:

In the New Testament, the Church is portrayed as the body of Christ, with believers acting as regents of His kingdom on earth. In Matthew 28:18-20 , Jesus commissions His disciples, saying, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This Great Commission entrusts believers with the responsibility to advance Christ's kingdom until His return.

These scriptures collectively illustrate the biblical principles of regency, emphasizing stewardship, accountability, and the exercise of authority under the ultimate sovereignty of God.

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1 Kings 22:47
There was then no king in Edom: a deputy was king.
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2 Kings 15:5
And the LORD smote the king, so that he was a leper to the day of his death, and dwelled in a several house. And Jotham the king's son was over the house, judging the people of the land.
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Library

ii.
... of his error through the Scriptures, was the ... to the Lutheran innovations, the Imperial
Regency replied by a ... it demanded "the summoning of a General Council, if ...
//christianbookshelf.org/luther/first principles of the reformation/ii.htm

The Life of Mr. John Knox.
... in prayer, frequent in reading the scriptures, and in ... the queen sickened and died,
and a general peace, which ... was then about to receive the regency, the earl ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of mr john.htm

The Heidelberg Catechism. AD 1563.
... But under the regency of Frederick's second son, Prince ... 'The man,' he said, before
the General Synod at ... resurrection, in accordance with the Scriptures (Luke 23 ...
/.../ 69 the heidelberg catechism.htm