Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Oppression in the biblical context refers to the unjust or cruel exercise of authority or power over others, often manifesting in the form of social, economic, or political injustice. It is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, where God’s people are frequently called to stand against it and to seek justice for the oppressed. Old Testament References: The Old Testament frequently addresses the issue of oppression, particularly in the context of the Israelites' history and their interactions with surrounding nations. In Exodus, the Israelites themselves are victims of oppression under Egyptian rule. God hears their cries and delivers them, demonstrating His concern for the oppressed: "I have surely seen the affliction of My people in Egypt, and I have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sufferings" (Exodus 3:7). The Law given to Moses includes numerous commands to protect the vulnerable from oppression. For instance, Leviticus 19:13 states, "You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him. The wages of a hired worker must not remain with you until morning" . Similarly, Deuteronomy 24:14-15 instructs, "Do not oppress a hired hand who is poor and needy, whether he is one of your brothers or a foreigner residing in one of your towns. You are to pay his wages each day before sunset, because he is poor and depends on them" . The prophets also speak out against oppression, often as a sign of Israel's unfaithfulness to God. Isaiah 1:17 calls the people to "Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow" . Similarly, Amos condemns those who "trample on the poor and force him to give you grain" (Amos 5:11). New Testament References: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies the call to liberate the oppressed. In Luke 4:18, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed" . This mission is central to His ministry and reflects the heart of God towards those suffering under oppression. The early church is also instructed to care for the oppressed and marginalized. James 1:27 emphasizes, "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world" . This care for the vulnerable is a hallmark of Christian community and witness. Theological Implications: The biblical narrative consistently portrays God as a defender of the oppressed, calling His people to reflect His justice and mercy. Oppression is seen as a violation of God’s order and an affront to His character. Believers are called to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8), which includes standing against oppression in all its forms. Practical Application: Christians are encouraged to actively seek justice and advocate for those who are oppressed. This can involve personal actions, such as fair treatment of others, as well as broader social and political engagement to address systemic injustices. The call to oppose oppression is a call to embody the love and justice of God in a broken world. Concordance Oppresest (1 Occurrence)Job 30:21 Thesaurus Oppresest (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Oppresest (1 Occurrence). Job 30:21 Thou art turned to be fierce to me, With the strength of Thy hand, Thou oppresest me. (YLT). ... /o/oppresest.htm - 6k Oppositions (1 Occurrence) Oppress (57 Occurrences) Fierce (92 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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