Topical Encyclopedia Deliverance in the Bible refers to the act of being rescued or set free from danger, bondage, or sin. It is a central theme throughout Scripture, illustrating God's power and mercy in liberating His people. The concept of deliverance is both physical and spiritual, encompassing salvation from enemies, personal afflictions, and eternal damnation.In the Old Testament, deliverance is often associated with God's intervention on behalf of Israel. One of the most significant examples is the Exodus, where God delivers the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Exodus 14:13-14 states, "But Moses told the people, 'Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.'" The Psalms frequently express a cry for deliverance and a testimony of God's saving acts. Psalm 34:17 declares, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles." In the New Testament, deliverance takes on a more spiritual dimension with the coming of Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, believers are delivered from the power of sin and death. Colossians 1:13-14 affirms, "He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Deliverance is also a future hope, as Christians anticipate ultimate deliverance at the return of Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:10 speaks of Jesus, "who rescues us from the coming wrath." Abundance Abundance in the Bible signifies a state of plentifulness and prosperity, often seen as a blessing from God. It encompasses material wealth, spiritual richness, and the fullness of life that comes from a relationship with God. In the Old Testament, abundance is frequently linked to the Promised Land, a place flowing with "milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8), symbolizing God's provision and blessing. Deuteronomy 28 outlines the blessings of obedience, including abundant harvests and prosperity: "The LORD will command the blessing upon you in your barns and in everything to which you put your hand, and He will bless you in the land the LORD your God is giving you" (Deuteronomy 28:8). The wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, often associates abundance with righteousness and wisdom. Proverbs 3:9-10 advises, "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine." In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of abundance in terms of spiritual life. In John 10:10 , He declares, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness." This abundance is not merely material but encompasses peace, joy, and eternal life. The Apostle Paul also speaks of God's ability to provide abundantly. In 2 Corinthians 9:8 , he writes, "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." Abundance, therefore, is both a present reality and a future promise for believers, rooted in God's character and His covenantal faithfulness. |