Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionBearing children is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the importance of family, lineage, and the fulfillment of God's promises. The act of childbearing is often seen as a blessing from God, a means of fulfilling His command to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28). This entry explores the biblical perspective on bearing children, highlighting key passages and figures that illustrate its theological and cultural significance. Old Testament In the Old Testament, bearing children is closely tied to God's covenantal promises. The patriarchs and matriarchs of Israel, such as Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and Jacob and Rachel, experienced God's intervention in their ability to bear children. For instance, Sarah's barrenness and subsequent miraculous conception of Isaac underscore God's sovereignty and faithfulness (Genesis 21:1-2). The account of Hannah, who prayed fervently for a child and was blessed with Samuel, illustrates the deep desire for children and the belief in God's power to grant them (1 Samuel 1:10-20). Children are often seen as a reward and a sign of God's favor, as expressed in Psalm 127:3: "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward" . New Testament In the New Testament, the theme of bearing children continues to hold significance, particularly in the context of Jesus' birth. The miraculous conception of Jesus by the Virgin Mary is a pivotal event, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and demonstrating God's direct intervention in human history (Luke 1:31-35). The New Testament also addresses the spiritual dimensions of bearing children. In 1 Timothy 2:15, Paul writes, "But she will be saved through childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control" . This passage has been interpreted in various ways, often understood as emphasizing the role of women in nurturing faith and godliness within the family. Cultural and Theological Significance Bearing children in biblical times was not only a personal blessing but also a communal and national concern. The growth of the Israelite nation depended on the multiplication of its people, and genealogies were meticulously recorded to trace lineage and inheritance. The birth of children ensured the continuation of family lines and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Theologically, bearing children is seen as participating in God's creative work. It reflects the divine image in humanity, as men and women are called to co-create life with God. This partnership with the Creator underscores the sanctity of life and the responsibility of parents to raise their children in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. Challenges and Redemption The Bible does not shy away from the challenges associated with bearing children. Stories of barrenness, loss, and hardship are prevalent, yet they often serve as a backdrop for God's redemptive work. The narratives of women like Sarah, Rachel, and Elizabeth highlight God's compassion and power to bring life where there was none. Moreover, the Bible acknowledges the pain and suffering that can accompany childbirth, as seen in Genesis 3:16, where God tells Eve, "I will greatly multiply your pain in childbirth; in pain you will bring forth children" . Despite this, the hope of redemption and the joy of new life remain central themes. Conclusion Bearing children is a multifaceted theme in the Bible, encompassing divine blessing, covenantal promises, and the continuation of God's people. It is a profound expression of faith and trust in God's providence, as well as a testament to His ongoing work in the world. Topical Bible Verses Genesis 9:7And you, be you fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein. Topicalbible.org Isaiah 65:23 Genesis 3:16 Greek 1080. gennao -- to beget, to bring forth ... Word Origin from genna (descent, birth) Definition to beget, to bring forth NASB Word Usage bear (1), bearing children (1), became the father of (4), became ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1080.htm - 9k 5042. teknogonia -- childbearing Strong's Hebrew 3205. yalad -- to bear, bring forth, beget... to bear, bring forth, beget NASB Word Usage bear (13), bearing (3), bears ... them forth (1), brought forth (6), child (2), childbirth (10), children (1), children ... /hebrew/3205.htm - 7k Library Galatians Chapter iv. Why the Great are Compared to Little Children. Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial. Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial. John Chapter xix. 17-22. The Second Day in Passion-Week - the Barren Fig-Tree - the ... Preface. On the Education of Children Heaven's Nurse Children The Malignity of the Devil as an Imitator in all Things; Two Kinds ... Resources What does it mean to bear one another's burdens? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the birth order of Jacob's thirteen children? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He said, “Take up your cross and follow Me”? | GotQuestions.org Bearing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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