Topical Encyclopedia Family rejection is a theme that appears throughout the Bible, reflecting the complexities and challenges of familial relationships. It often serves as a backdrop for demonstrating faith, perseverance, and the fulfillment of God's purposes. The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who faced rejection from their family members, yet remained steadfast in their faith and calling.Old Testament Examples 1. Joseph: One of the most notable instances of family rejection is the account of Joseph, the son of Jacob. Joseph's brothers were envious of him due to their father's favoritism and Joseph's prophetic dreams. This envy led them to sell Joseph into slavery. Despite this rejection, Joseph rose to prominence in Egypt and eventually reconciled with his family, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the power of forgiveness (Genesis 37:4, 28; Genesis 50:20). 2. David: Before becoming king, David experienced rejection from his own family. When the prophet Samuel visited Jesse's house to anoint the next king of Israel, David was initially overlooked by his father and brothers. Despite this, God chose David, emphasizing that divine selection is not based on human judgment (1 Samuel 16:10-13). 3. Jephthah: Jephthah, a judge of Israel, was rejected by his half-brothers because he was the son of a different mother. They drove him away to prevent him from sharing in the family inheritance. However, when Israel faced a crisis, they turned to Jephthah for leadership, illustrating how God can use those who have been cast aside (Judges 11:1-11). New Testament Examples 1. Jesus: Jesus Himself experienced rejection from His family. His brothers did not believe in Him during His early ministry (John 7:5). Additionally, when Jesus returned to His hometown of Nazareth, He was rejected by those who knew Him from childhood, fulfilling the adage that "a prophet is not without honor except in his own town" (Mark 6:4). 2. Paul: The Apostle Paul faced rejection from his Jewish brethren after his conversion to Christianity. His new faith and mission to the Gentiles led to estrangement and persecution from those who once considered him a leader among them (Acts 9:23-25; 2 Corinthians 11:24-26). Theological Insights Family rejection in the Bible often serves as a test of faith and character. It highlights the tension between earthly relationships and divine calling. Believers are reminded that allegiance to God may sometimes lead to division within families, as Jesus taught: "For I have come to turn ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’" (Matthew 10:35). Despite the pain of rejection, the Bible assures believers of God's unfailing love and acceptance. Psalm 27:10 states, "Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me." This verse underscores the promise that God's love transcends human rejection. Practical Application For Christians facing family rejection, the Bible offers both comfort and guidance. It encourages believers to remain faithful to their calling, to forgive those who reject them, and to trust in God's ultimate plan. The accounts of Joseph, David, and others serve as reminders that God can use rejection to fulfill His purposes and bring about reconciliation and restoration. Topical Bible Verses Psalm 27:10When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up. Topicalbible.org Isaiah 49:15 Library Acts VII Christ Our High Priest. "But they are Gods to Us," You Say. ... The Nobleman's Son. Who are My Brethren? Rejected in his Own Country The Sedition of Corah and of the Multitude against Moses, and ... Letter cviii. To Eustochium. The vision The Eccentricity of Religion Resources What does the Bible say about family? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about family conflict? | GotQuestions.org How does the Bible define a good Christian family? | GotQuestions.org Family: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Family of Saints: Be Duly Regulated Family of Saints: Deceivers and Liars should be Removed From Family of Saints: Live in Mutual Forbearance Family of Saints: Live in Unity Family of Saints: Punishment of Irreligious Family of Saints: Rejoice Together Before God Family of Saints: should be Taught God's Word Family of Saints: Warned Against Departing from God Family of Saints: Worship God Together Family: Good: Jailor of Philippi Family: Good: Lazarus of Bethany Family: Infelicity in David and Michal Family: Infelicity in Elkanah, on Account of Bigamic Feuds Family: Infelicity in Moses and Zipporah Family: Infelicity In of Abraham, on Account of Hagar Family: Infelicity In of Isaac, on Account of the Disagreement Between Jacob and Esau Family: Infelicity In of Jacob, the Bigamic Jealousy Between Leah and Rachel Family: Persian, Domestic Customs Related Terms |