Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, exploration often involves the act of seeking out new territories, understanding God's creation, and fulfilling divine mandates. The concept of exploration is woven throughout the Scriptures, highlighting both physical journeys and spiritual quests.Old Testament Explorers 1. The Twelve Spies: One of the most notable accounts of exploration in the Old Testament is the mission of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. As recorded in Numbers 13, Moses instructed the leaders of each tribe to "see what the land is like and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many" (Numbers 13:18). The exploration was a pivotal moment for the Israelites, as it tested their faith and trust in God's promises. While Joshua and Caleb returned with a positive report, urging the people to trust in God's provision, the other ten spies incited fear, leading to a prolonged period of wandering in the wilderness. 2. Joshua's Reconnaissance of Jericho: In Joshua 2, Joshua sent two men to secretly explore the city of Jericho. Their mission was crucial for the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land. The spies were aided by Rahab, a woman of faith who recognized the power of the God of Israel. This exploration not only provided strategic information but also demonstrated God's providence and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan. 3. The Search for a New Home: The patriarch Abraham is often seen as an explorer, called by God to leave his homeland and journey to a land that God would show him (Genesis 12:1). Abraham's journey was both a physical exploration and a spiritual pilgrimage, as he sought to follow God's leading and establish a covenant relationship with Him. New Testament Explorers 1. The Magi: The New Testament introduces the Magi, wise men from the East, who embarked on a journey to find the newborn King of the Jews. Guided by a star, their exploration was driven by a desire to worship the Messiah. Matthew 2:1-2 records their quest: "After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, asking, 'Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews? We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.'" Their exploration signifies the recognition of Christ's kingship by the Gentile world. 2. Paul's Missionary Journeys: The Apostle Paul is perhaps the most prominent explorer in the New Testament, undertaking multiple missionary journeys to spread the Gospel across the Roman Empire. His travels, documented in the Book of Acts, were not only geographical explorations but also spiritual endeavors to establish churches and encourage believers. Paul's exploration was driven by a divine commission to be a "light for the Gentiles" (Acts 13:47). Spiritual Exploration Beyond physical journeys, the Bible also emphasizes spiritual exploration. Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom, understanding, and a deeper relationship with God. Proverbs 2:4-5 urges, "if you seek it like silver and search it out like hidden treasure, then you will discern the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of God" . This spiritual exploration is a lifelong journey of faith, marked by prayer, study, and obedience to God's Word. Conclusion Exploration in the Bible encompasses both the physical act of journeying to new lands and the spiritual pursuit of understanding God's will and purpose. Whether through the reconnaissance of Canaan, the journeys of the Magi, or the missionary travels of Paul, exploration serves as a testament to faith, obedience, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for humanity. Strong's Hebrew 8446. tur -- to seek out, spy out, explore... root Definition to seek out, spy out, explore NASB Word Usage explore (1), explored (1), explores (1), follow (1), guide (1), investigate (1), seek (2 ... /hebrew/8446.htm - 6k Library Book Ten from Autobiography to Self-Analysis. ... Book Twelve the Mode of Creation and the Truth of Scripture. ... Learning and Life Doctrines of the Cainites. Now those who Take a Superficial and Unreflecting view of Things ... That the Ruler Should be a Near Neighbour to Every one in ... The Writings of St. Augustin. God. The Complaint: Or, Night Thoughts. Daily Bread Thesaurus Explores (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Explores (1 Occurrence). Job 39:8 The range of the mountains is his pasture, He searches after every green thing. (See NAS). ... /e/explores.htm - 6k Explored (9 Occurrences) Exploreth (1 Occurrence) Resources What are the five love languages? | GotQuestions.orgWas some of Proverbs copied from the Instruction of Amenemope? | GotQuestions.org What is neurotheology? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Explores (1 Occurrence)Job 39:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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