Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of an "outsider" often refers to individuals or groups who are not part of the covenant community of Israel or the early Christian church. The term can encompass foreigners, Gentiles, or those who are not adherents to the faith practices of the Israelites or early Christians. The treatment and perception of outsiders in the Bible provide insight into the broader themes of inclusion, redemption, and the universality of God's message.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Israelites were called to be a distinct people, set apart by their covenant with God. Outsiders, often referred to as "foreigners" or "sojourners," were those who did not belong to the twelve tribes of Israel. Despite this distinction, the Law provided specific instructions on how to treat outsiders. Leviticus 19:34 states, "You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God." This command underscores the principle of compassion and justice towards those who are not part of the covenant community. The account of Ruth, a Moabite woman, exemplifies the inclusion of outsiders. Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her faith in the God of Israel led to her becoming the great-grandmother of King David, highlighting God's openness to those outside the ethnic boundaries of Israel. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of outsiders expands with the advent of the Gospel message. Jesus' ministry often reached out to those considered outsiders by Jewish society, including Samaritans, tax collectors, and sinners. In John 4, Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well illustrates His willingness to break social and religious barriers, offering the living water of eternal life to all who believe. The Apostle Paul further develops the theme of inclusion in his epistles. In Ephesians 2:12-13 , Paul writes, "remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ." Here, Paul emphasizes that through Christ, the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles has been broken down, allowing all to become part of God's family. Theological Implications The treatment of outsiders in the Bible reflects God's heart for all humanity and His desire for inclusivity within His redemptive plan. The call to love and accept outsiders challenges believers to extend grace and hospitality, recognizing that the Gospel transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries. The biblical narrative consistently points to a future where people from every nation, tribe, and tongue will worship God together, as seen in Revelation 7:9 : "After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." Practical Application For contemporary believers, the biblical perspective on outsiders encourages a posture of openness and love towards those who may be different or marginalized. It calls for an active engagement in sharing the Gospel and welcoming all into the community of faith, reflecting the inclusive nature of God's kingdom. The church is called to be a place where outsiders become insiders through the transformative power of Christ's love and grace. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) One not belonging to the concern, institution, party, etc., spoken of; one disconnected in interest or feeling.2. (n.) A locksmith's pinchers for grasping the point of a key in the keyhole, to open a door from the outside when the key is inside. 3. (n.) A horse which is not a favorite in the betting. Strong's Hebrew 2114a. zur -- to be a stranger... 1), alien (2), aliens (2), another (2), enemies (1), estranged (4), foreign (2), foreigners (2), illegitimate (1), layman (9), outsider (2), satisfied (1 ... /hebrew/2114a.htm - 5k Library An Appeal to the Outsider; Or, the Claims of Christianity Nature of the Renderings The Right to a Normal Home Life Additional Notes. In common with the Roman Church, the Greek Church has seven ... The Healing Christ Second visit to Nazareth - the Mission of the Twelve. The Moravians. Sin and Forgiveness Between Brethren. Three Keys. Thesaurus Outsider (9 Occurrences)...Outsider (9 Occurrences). ... Leviticus 22:12 If a priest's daughter is married to an outsider, she shall not eat of the heave offering of the holy things. ... /o/outsider.htm - 9k Outsiders (5 Occurrences) Layman (9 Occurrences) Contributions (19 Occurrences) Madness (13 Occurrences) Mad (22 Occurrences) Outside (215 Occurrences) Priest's (75 Occurrences) Sacred (140 Occurrences) Heave (25 Occurrences) Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about nationalism? | GotQuestions.org Why does the Bible speak so negatively about tax collectors? | GotQuestions.org Outsider: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Outsider (9 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 14:16 1 Corinthians 14:24 Exodus 29:33 Exodus 30:33 Leviticus 22:10 Leviticus 22:12 Leviticus 22:13 Numbers 18:4 Numbers 18:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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