All Flesh
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The term "all flesh" is a biblical expression that appears throughout the Scriptures, often used to denote humanity as a whole or all living creatures. It is a phrase that underscores the universality of God's creation and His sovereign authority over it. The expression is rich in theological significance, reflecting themes of divine judgment, covenant, and redemption.

Creation and Universality

In the account of creation, "all flesh" is indicative of the entirety of living beings created by God. Genesis 6:12 states, "God looked upon the earth and saw that it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way upon the earth." Here, "all flesh" refers to both humanity and the animal kingdom, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the corruption that led to the flood. This usage underscores the interconnectedness of all living beings under God's creative order.

Divine Judgment

The phrase is frequently associated with divine judgment. In the narrative of the flood, God declares His intention to judge "all flesh" due to widespread wickedness. Genesis 6:17 records, "And behold, I will bring floodwaters upon the earth to destroy every creature under the heavens that has the breath of life. Everything on the earth will perish." This passage highlights the severity of God's judgment, which encompasses all living beings, reflecting the moral accountability of creation to its Creator.

Covenant and Promise

Following the flood, God establishes a covenant with Noah, which includes a promise to "all flesh." Genesis 9:15 states, "And I will remember My covenant between Me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all flesh." This covenant signifies God's mercy and faithfulness, extending His promise of preservation to every living creature. It serves as a reminder of God's ongoing relationship with His creation.

Prophetic Vision

In the prophetic literature, "all flesh" often appears in the context of eschatological visions. The prophet Isaiah speaks of a future time when God's glory will be revealed to "all flesh." Isaiah 40:5 proclaims, "And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all flesh will see it together. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken." This vision anticipates a universal recognition of God's majesty and sovereignty, transcending national and ethnic boundaries.

Redemption and Salvation

The New Testament continues the theme of "all flesh" in the context of redemption and salvation. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is described in Acts 2:17 , quoting the prophet Joel: "In the last days, God says, I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh." This promise signifies the inclusivity of the Gospel message, extending the offer of salvation to all humanity, regardless of status or background.

Mortal Nature

The phrase also serves as a reminder of the frailty and mortality of human life. In passages like Psalm 65:2 , "O You who hear prayer, to You all flesh will come," there is an acknowledgment of human dependence on God. The recognition of human mortality is a call to humility and reliance on the divine.

Throughout Scripture, "all flesh" is a term that encapsulates the breadth of God's creative work, His righteous judgment, His covenantal promises, and His redemptive plan. It serves as a theological reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings under the sovereign rule of God.
All Creatures
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