Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "ends of the earth" is a biblical expression that appears numerous times throughout Scripture, often symbolizing the farthest reaches of the known world. It is used to convey the vastness of God's creation, the universality of His dominion, and the extent of His salvation plan. This term is rich in theological significance and is employed in various contexts within the Bible.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, "ends of the earth" frequently underscores the omnipresence and sovereignty of God. For instance, in Psalm 22:27 , it is written, "All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations will bow down before Him." Here, the phrase emphasizes the global recognition and worship of God, suggesting a future time when all nations will acknowledge His lordship. Isaiah also uses this expression to highlight God's power and the reach of His salvation. Isaiah 45:22 states, "Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other." This verse calls all people, regardless of their geographical location, to seek salvation in the one true God, affirming His desire for all humanity to come to Him. New Testament Usage In the New Testament, the phrase takes on a missional aspect, reflecting the Great Commission and the spread of the Gospel. Jesus, in Acts 1:8 , instructs His disciples, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This directive underscores the global mission of the Church to proclaim the Gospel to every corner of the world, fulfilling God's redemptive plan. Theological Implications Theologically, "ends of the earth" signifies the inclusivity of God's covenant and His intention to reach all peoples with His message of salvation. It reflects the biblical theme of God's universal reign and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, that through his offspring, all nations of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 22:18). Furthermore, the phrase serves as a reminder of the eschatological hope that one day, God's kingdom will be fully realized, and His glory will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea (Habakkuk 2:14). It points to the future gathering of all nations before the throne of God, as depicted in Revelation 7:9, where a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language stands before the Lamb. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near Eastern context, the "ends of the earth" would have been understood as the most distant lands known to the people of Israel. This expression would evoke images of far-off territories beyond the familiar boundaries of the Mediterranean world. It served as a poetic way to describe the entirety of the earth, encompassing all creation under God's sovereign rule. Conclusion The phrase "ends of the earth" in the Bible is a powerful testament to God's universal authority, His inclusive call to salvation, and the global mission of the Church. It encapsulates the hope and promise of a world united in worship and obedience to the Creator, as well as the ongoing task of believers to carry the message of Christ to every nation. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Ends of the EarthENDS OF THE EARTH See ASTRONOMY, sec. III, 2. Strong's Hebrew 657. ephes -- a ceasing... from aphes Definition a ceasing NASB Word Usage dearth (1), ends (14), however (2 ... From 'aphec; cessation, ie An end (especially of the earth); often used adverb ... /hebrew/657.htm - 6k 3671. kanaph -- wing, extremity Library Psalm LXI. In the Birth of the Son Light Dawned, --And Darkness Fled from the ... By Death I Shall Attain True Life. Of the Fact that Idolatry Has Been Subverted by the Name of Christ ... Nor Does Ps. Lxxii. Apply to Solomon, Whose Faults Christians ... I am Greatly God's Debtor, Because He Granted Me So Much Grace... Precepts from the Prophetic Books. The Millennium in Relation to the World. Hope for the Heathen Because of Its Bearing Upon the Gentiles. Resources Is there an error in the counting of the 14 generations in Matthew chapter 1? | GotQuestions.orgIs the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar biblical? | GotQuestions.org What is the Great Commission? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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