Topical Bible: The Ox: Urged on by the Goad

◄ The Ox: Urged on by the Goad ►

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The ox, a symbol of strength and service, holds a significant place in biblical literature and ancient Near Eastern culture. In the Scriptures, the ox is often associated with labor, sacrifice, and divine instruction. The imagery of the ox being urged on by the goad provides a vivid metaphor for guidance, discipline, and the human response to divine prompting.

Symbolism and Role in Scripture

The ox is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a beast of burden, essential for agricultural work. In Deuteronomy 25:4, the law states, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain," highlighting the ox's role in food production and the principle of fair treatment for laborers. This command underscores the value of the ox's labor and the ethical treatment of workers, both human and animal.

In the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, the ox was one of the primary animals offered to God. Leviticus 1:3-5 describes the burnt offering of a bull, symbolizing atonement and dedication. The ox's sacrifice was a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, emphasizing themes of redemption and divine provision.

The Goad as a Tool of Guidance

The goad, a pointed stick used to drive oxen, serves as a metaphor for divine guidance and correction. In Acts 9:5, during Saul's conversion, Jesus says, "It is hard for you to kick against the goads." This phrase illustrates the futility of resisting God's will and the necessity of submission to divine direction. The goad represents God's persistent call to obedience and the consequences of resisting His guidance.

The use of the goad in biblical times was a practical necessity for directing the oxen in their labor. It ensured that the animals remained on the correct path and fulfilled their purpose. Similarly, God's guidance, though sometimes uncomfortable, is intended to keep His people on the path of righteousness and purpose.

Lessons from the Ox and the Goad

The relationship between the ox and the goad offers profound lessons for believers. Just as the ox must submit to the goad to accomplish its work, Christians are called to submit to God's guidance through His Word and the Holy Spirit. Proverbs 3:11-12 reminds us, "My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline and do not loathe His reproof; for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, as does a father the son in whom he delights."

The imagery of the ox and the goad also speaks to the importance of perseverance and diligence in the Christian life. Hebrews 12:1 encourages believers to "run with endurance the race set out for us," much like the ox that continues its labor despite the prodding of the goad. This perseverance is essential for spiritual growth and fulfilling God's purposes.

Conclusion

The ox, urged on by the goad, serves as a powerful biblical metaphor for divine guidance, discipline, and the believer's response to God's call. Through the imagery of the ox and the goad, Scripture teaches the importance of submission, perseverance, and the transformative power of divine correction.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 3:31
And after him was Shamgar the son of Anath, which slew of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox goad: and he also delivered Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Acts IX
... Saul's conscience had not been altogether at rest during his persecutions, but that,
like an unruly ox, he had been kicking against a goad, which urged him to ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts ix.htm

"This Thing is from Me"
... gentle tugging of the rein, then the goad and the ... when you have pleaded, and persuaded,
and urged, and done ... Aaron's days, when he made the ox which Scripture ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 42 1896/this thing is from me.htm

Independence of Christianity
... It was one Shamgar, with his ox goad, or it was an Elon, who with his ... saw the whole
assembly melted in tears when the pastor addressed them, and urged them to ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 3 1857/independence of christianity.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... coast, and there is but a bare reference to the exploits of a certain Shamgar, son
of Anath, who "smote of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox-goad."**. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... INTER. Well, keep all things so in thy mind that they may be as a goad in
thy sides, to prick thee forward in the way thou must go. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm