Topical Encyclopedia The term "alternately" is not directly found in the text of the Bible; however, the concept of alternating or taking turns can be observed in various biblical narratives and teachings. This entry explores the idea of alternating roles, responsibilities, and actions as seen in Scripture, reflecting the order and structure that God has established in His creation.Alternating Roles and Responsibilities In the Old Testament, the division of labor and alternating roles are evident in the priestly duties assigned to the Levites. The Levites were divided into different families, each with specific responsibilities in the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. For instance, the sons of Kohath, Gershon, and Merari had distinct roles in transporting the Tabernacle and its furnishings (Numbers 4:1-33). This division ensured that the work was shared and that each family had a turn in serving the Lord. The concept of alternating responsibilities is also seen in the rotation of priestly duties. In 1 Chronicles 24, King David organizes the priests into 24 divisions, each serving in the Temple at different times. This system allowed for an orderly and continuous worship of God, with each division taking turns in the sacred service. Alternating Times and Seasons The Bible frequently speaks of times and seasons, which inherently involve alternation. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 famously declares, "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven." This passage highlights the cyclical nature of life, where different times call for different actions, such as planting and harvesting, mourning and dancing, or keeping silence and speaking. The alternation of day and night, as established in the creation account in Genesis 1, further underscores the divine order in the natural world. Genesis 1:5 states, "God called the light 'day,' and the darkness He called 'night.' And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day." This rhythm of day and night is a fundamental aspect of God's creation, providing a pattern for work and rest. Alternating Leadership and Authority Scripture also records instances of alternating leadership and authority. In the book of Judges, God raises up different judges to deliver Israel from oppression at various times. Each judge, such as Deborah, Gideon, and Samson, serves for a period before leadership transitions to another (Judges 2:16-19). This alternation reflects God's sovereignty in appointing leaders according to His purposes and timing. In the New Testament, the early church demonstrates a form of alternating leadership through the appointment of elders and deacons to oversee different aspects of church life (Acts 6:1-6, 1 Timothy 3:1-13). This structure allows for shared leadership and the distribution of responsibilities, ensuring that the needs of the congregation are met. Alternating in Worship and Practice The Psalms often reflect the alternation between lament and praise, a pattern that mirrors the believer's journey through trials and triumphs. Psalm 30:5 captures this alternation: "For His anger is fleeting, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay the night, but joy comes in the morning." This verse illustrates the transition from sorrow to joy, a common theme in the life of faith. In the New Testament, the practice of alternating between different forms of worship is evident in the early church. Believers gathered for teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). This variety in worship practices allowed for a holistic expression of faith and devotion to God. In summary, while the term "alternately" is not explicitly used in the Bible, the concept is woven throughout Scripture in the form of alternating roles, times, leadership, and worship practices. These patterns reflect the order and rhythm established by God, guiding His people in their service, relationships, and spiritual growth. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (adv.) In reciprocal succession; succeeding by turns; in alternate order.2. (adv.) By alternation; when, in a proportion, the antecedent term is compared with antecedent, and consequent. Greek 5116. topazion -- a topaz ... topaz. Neuter of a presumed derivative (alternately) of topazos (a "topaz"; of uncertain origin); a gem, probably the chrysolite -- topaz. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5116.htm - 6k 3342. metaxu -- between, after Library A Word to the Wavering Ones The Poet. Education and Preparation. The Apocalypse of Peter. Occasion of Writing. Relative Position of Jews and Gentiles ... Beasts Similarly Subject to the Law of Mutation. Introduction. Submit Yourselves Therefore to God. James 4:7. From Malachi to the Birth of Christ. The Opinion of the Stoics Concerning God; of his Anger and ... Thesaurus Alternately (2 Occurrences)... is compared with antecedent, and consequent. Multi-Version Concordance Alternately (2 Occurrences). Romans 2:15 in that they show ... /a/alternately.htm - 7k Loving-kindness (150 Occurrences) Gallop (1 Occurrence) Flat (33 Occurrences) Potent (1 Occurrence) Bond (32 Occurrences) Checkerwork Alternating (1 Occurrence) Alternated (2 Occurrences) Stagger (20 Occurrences) Resources Why is Jacob called Jacob and Israel alternately in the book of Genesis? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Nebuchadnezzar? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of epektasis? | GotQuestions.org Alternately: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Alternately (2 Occurrences)Romans 2:15 Ezra 3:11 Subtopics Related Terms |
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