Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, attackers are often depicted as individuals or groups who initiate conflict or aggression against others, frequently against the people of God. The concept of attackers is woven throughout the Scriptures, illustrating both physical and spiritual dimensions of conflict.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, attackers are frequently seen in the context of warfare and conquest. The Israelites, as they journeyed to the Promised Land, encountered numerous hostile nations. For instance, the Amalekites attacked the Israelites at Rephidim, prompting Moses to instruct Joshua to choose men and fight against them (Exodus 17:8-13). This event underscores the reality of external threats faced by God's people and the necessity of divine intervention and human leadership in overcoming such adversaries. The Philistines are another prominent group of attackers in the Old Testament. They were a constant threat to Israel during the time of the Judges and the early monarchy. The account of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17) is a well-known account of an individual attacker, Goliath, who challenged the armies of Israel, only to be defeated by David through faith in God. Spiritual Dimensions Attackers are not limited to physical entities; the Bible also addresses spiritual attackers. In the book of Job, Satan acts as an accuser and attacker, challenging Job's righteousness and seeking to undermine his faith (Job 1:6-12). This narrative highlights the spiritual warfare that believers may face, where the adversary seeks to attack their faith and integrity. The Psalms frequently express the psalmists' cries for deliverance from attackers. Psalm 3:1-2 states, "O LORD, how my foes have increased! How many rise up against me! Many say of me, 'God will not deliver him.'" These verses reflect the reality of feeling overwhelmed by adversaries and the need for divine rescue. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the concept of attackers extends to the spiritual realm, with an emphasis on the believer's struggle against spiritual forces. Ephesians 6:12 declares, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This passage encourages believers to recognize the spiritual nature of their battles and to equip themselves with the armor of God. Jesus Himself faced attackers throughout His ministry, from the Pharisees and Sadducees who sought to undermine His authority, to the ultimate betrayal and crucifixion. Despite these attacks, Jesus demonstrated love, forgiveness, and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Response to Attackers The biblical response to attackers is multifaceted. Believers are called to trust in God's protection and deliverance, as seen in Psalm 18:2 : "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Additionally, Jesus taught His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44), emphasizing a response of grace and forgiveness. Ultimately, the Bible assures believers of God's sovereignty and justice, promising that He will ultimately deal with all forms of evil and aggression. Romans 12:19 reminds believers, "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God's wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'" This assurance allows believers to rest in God's righteous judgment while seeking to live in peace with others. Library Chapter vi The Missing Factor in Current Theories Thesaurus Attackers (41 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Attackers (41 Occurrences). ... (BBE). Joshua 7:8 O Lord, what am I to say now that Israel have given way before their attackers? (BBE). ... /a/attackers.htm - 20k Damaged (44 Occurrences) Worm (22 Occurrences) Attacker (14 Occurrences) Foes (95 Occurrences) Overcame (84 Occurrences) Faces (158 Occurrences) Fruits (109 Occurrences) Zion's (6 Occurrences) Unaware (16 Occurrences) Resources Does Deuteronomy 22:28-29 command a rape victim to marry her rapist? | GotQuestions.orgShould Israel be building settlements in the occupied territories, i.e., the West Bank and East Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org What is the Feast of Purim? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Attackers (41 Occurrences)Luke 19:43 Deuteronomy 33:7 Joshua 7:8 Joshua 7:12 Joshua 10:13 1 Samuel 10:1 1 Samuel 14:15 1 Samuel 14:48 1 Kings 8:37 1 Kings 8:44 2 Kings 17:20 2 Chronicles 6:28 2 Chronicles 6:34 2 Chronicles 25:8 Esther 9:5 Psalms 35:3 Psalms 35:15 Isaiah 28:6 Isaiah 29:5 Isaiah 42:13 Isaiah 42:24 Isaiah 47:12 Isaiah 49:26 Isaiah 59:18 Jeremiah 4:16 Jeremiah 15:13 Jeremiah 20:11 Jeremiah 30:16 Jeremiah 38:2 Jeremiah 39:18 Jeremiah 50:7 Jeremiah 50:10 Jeremiah 50:37 Lamentations 1:3 Lamentations 1:7 Lamentations 1:17 Lamentations 4:12 Lamentations 5:5 Ezekiel 39:23 Amos 9:4 Nahum 3:13 Subtopics Related Terms |