The term "out-place" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept can be understood through various scriptural references that discuss being out of place in a spiritual or moral sense. This entry explores the idea of being spiritually or morally out of place, drawing from biblical narratives and teachings.

Biblical Context

1. Exile and Displacement: The Bible frequently addresses the theme of being out of place through the experiences of exile and displacement. The Israelites' Babylonian exile is a prime example, where they found themselves physically and spiritually out of place due to their disobedience to God. In 2 Kings 25:21, the deportation to Babylon is described, highlighting the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

2. Prodigal Son: In the New Testament, the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) illustrates a personal journey of being out of place. The younger son demands his inheritance and leaves his father's house, squandering his wealth in a distant land. His physical departure from home symbolizes a spiritual and moral dislocation. Eventually, he recognizes his out-of-place status and returns to his father, seeking forgiveness and restoration.

3. Strangers and Sojourners: The concept of being out of place is also reflected in the description of believers as "strangers and sojourners" in the world. Hebrews 11:13-16 speaks of the patriarchs who lived by faith, acknowledging that they were strangers on the earth, seeking a heavenly homeland. This metaphorical out-of-place status emphasizes the Christian's ultimate citizenship in heaven.

4. Moral and Spiritual Misalignment: The Bible warns against being morally and spiritually out of place through sin and disobedience. In Ephesians 5:8-11, believers are urged to live as children of light, avoiding the "fruitless deeds of darkness." This passage underscores the importance of aligning one's life with God's will, avoiding the spiritual dislocation that comes from sin.

5. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus often addressed the issue of being out of place in His teachings. In Matthew 7:21-23, He warns that not everyone who calls Him "Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father. This teaching highlights the danger of being spiritually out of place despite outward appearances of faith.

Theological Implications

The concept of being out of place in a biblical sense often involves a separation from God's intended purpose and design for humanity. It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance, realignment with God's will, and the pursuit of holiness. The Bible consistently calls believers to recognize their spiritual status and seek restoration through faith and obedience.

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to examine their lives for areas where they may be spiritually or morally out of place. This involves regular self-reflection, prayer, and study of Scripture to ensure alignment with God's will. The church community plays a vital role in supporting individuals in this journey, providing guidance, accountability, and encouragement.

In summary, while the term "out-place" is not explicitly used in the Bible, the concept is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of spiritual alignment with God's purposes and the dangers of moral and spiritual dislocation.Out-place (5 Occurrences)

2 Kings 10:24
And they come in to make sacrifices and burnt-offerings, and Jehu hath set for himself in an out-place eighty men, and saith, 'The man who letteth escape 'any' of the men whom I am bringing in unto your hand -- his soul for his soul.'
(YLT)

Proverbs 1:20
Wisdom in an out-place crieth aloud, In broad places she giveth forth her voice,
(YLT)

Proverbs 7:12
Now in an out-place, now in broad places, And near every corner she lieth in wait) --
(YLT)

Proverbs 24:27
Prepare in an out-place thy work, And make it ready in the field -- go afterwards, Then thou hast built thy house.
(YLT)

Ezekiel 34:21
Because with side and with shoulder ye thrust away, And with your horns push all the diseased, Till ye have scattered them to the out-place,
(YLT)

Out-place (5 Occurrences)
Out-place. Outnumber, Out-place. Out-places . Multi-Version
Concordance Out-place (5 Occurrences). 2 Kings 10:24 And ...
/o/out-place.htm - 7k

Out-places (22 Occurrences)
Out-places. Out-place, Out-places. Outpost . Multi-Version Concordance
Out-places (22 Occurrences). ... (YLT). Out-place, Out-places. Outpost . Reference
/o/out-places.htm - 13k

Outnumber (2 Occurrences)

/o/outnumber.htm - 7k

Goings (42 Occurrences)
... In Ezekiel 44:5, the American Standard Revised Version substitutes "egress" (way
out or place of exit) for "going forth." "The goings out (place of exit; hence ...
/g/goings.htm - 22k

Going (2561 Occurrences)
... In Ezekiel 44:5, the American Standard Revised Version substitutes "egress" (way
out or place of exit) for "going forth." "The goings out (place of exit; hence ...
/g/going.htm - 10k

Placing (44 Occurrences)
... (BBE). 2 Kings 10:24 And they come in to make sacrifices and burnt-offerings, and
Jehu hath set for himself in an out-place eighty men, and saith, 'The man who ...
/p/placing.htm - 20k

What were the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place in the temple / tabernacle? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about an out of body experience / astral projection? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about the value of a secret place? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus