Topical Encyclopedia The term "fewest" in the context of the Bible often refers to the concept of smallness in number, whether it pertains to people, resources, or other entities. This concept is significant in various biblical narratives and teachings, highlighting themes of divine selection, humility, and reliance on God's strength rather than human might.Divine Selection and Favor One of the most prominent examples of "fewest" is found in the context of God's selection of Israel as His chosen people. Despite being numerically small compared to other nations, Israel was chosen by God to fulfill His purposes. In Deuteronomy 7:7 , it is stated, "The LORD did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples." This passage underscores the principle that God's choice is not based on human standards of strength or size but on His sovereign will and love. Gideon's Army The account of Gideon in the Book of Judges further illustrates the theme of God working through the fewest. Gideon was called to deliver Israel from the Midianites, and God intentionally reduced Gideon's army to a mere 300 men to demonstrate that victory comes from the Lord, not from human numbers. Judges 7:2 records God's words to Gideon: "You have too many men for Me to deliver Midian into their hands. Israel might boast against Me, saying, ‘My own strength has saved me.’" This narrative emphasizes that God's power is made perfect in weakness and that He often chooses the few to accomplish His purposes. The Narrow Path In the teachings of Jesus, the concept of "few" is also significant. In Matthew 7:13-14 , Jesus speaks of the narrow gate and the difficult path that leads to life, stating, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Here, "few" refers to those who choose to follow the path of righteousness and obedience to God, highlighting the challenge and commitment required to live a life of faith. The Remnant The idea of a faithful remnant is another biblical theme where "fewest" plays a role. Throughout the Old Testament, God preserves a remnant of His people who remain faithful to Him despite widespread apostasy. This remnant is often small in number but significant in God's redemptive plan. In Isaiah 10:22 , it is written, "Though your people, O Israel, be like the sand of the sea, only a remnant will return." This concept reassures believers that God is faithful to preserve His people, even when they are few. Conclusion The biblical use of "fewest" serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of faithfulness, humility, and reliance on Him. Whether through the selection of Israel, the victory of Gideon's small army, the narrow path to salvation, or the preservation of a remnant, the Bible consistently teaches that God's purposes are not hindered by small numbers. Instead, He often uses the few to demonstrate His power and fulfill His divine will. Strong's Hebrew 4592. meat -- a little, fewness, a few... maat Definition a little, fewness, a few NASB Word Usage almost (2), brief (1), close (1), diminish (1), easily (1), enough (3), few (20), fewest (1), little ... /hebrew/4592.htm - 6k Library But Suffer it to be So, I Beg You, as You are Lovers of Christ ... The General Observations are These. But Now I Will Proceed with what I have Begun... One Argument which Has Been Much Relied Upon but not More than Its ... Crucifixion of Self. Doctor Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences Stumbling-Stones, or Stepping-Stones? God in Human Garb. Our Prayer Teacher. A Pen Sketch. Thesaurus Fewest (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Fewest (1 Occurrence). Deuteronomy 7:7 Yahweh didn't set his love on you, nor choose you, because you were ... /f/fewest.htm - 6k Fewness (1 Occurrence) Fewer (3 Occurrences) Attached (31 Occurrences) Chose (59 Occurrences) Writing (194 Occurrences) Peoples (305 Occurrences) Choose (116 Occurrences) Chosen (197 Occurrences) Resources Why did God choose Israel to be His chosen people? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christians support the nation of Israel? | GotQuestions.org What is Occam's Razor? Does Occam's Razor disprove the existence of God? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fewest (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 7:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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