In the biblical narrative, the phrase "great number of people" often signifies the vastness of God's creation, the multitude of His followers, or the overwhelming presence of a crowd in various contexts. This concept is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating both the physical and spiritual dimensions of God's interaction with humanity.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the phrase is frequently used to describe the burgeoning population of the Israelites. In Exodus 1:7, the Berean Standard Bible states, "but the Israelites were fruitful and increased abundantly; they multiplied and grew exceedingly strong, so that the land was filled with them." This growth is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky (Genesis 15:5).

The great number of people also plays a role in the narrative of the Exodus. In Exodus 12:37, the BSB records, "The Israelites journeyed from Rameses to Succoth with about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides women and children." This vast assembly underscores the magnitude of the deliverance God provided for His people.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of a great number of people often appears in the context of Jesus' ministry. Crowds frequently gathered to hear Him teach and witness His miracles. For instance, in Matthew 14:14, the BSB notes, "When He stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them and healed their sick." The presence of large crowds highlights the widespread impact of Jesus' ministry and the deep spiritual hunger of the people.

The early church also experienced rapid growth, as seen in Acts 2:41, where the BSB states, "Those who embraced his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to the believers that day." This growth is a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit and the fulfillment of Jesus' Great Commission.

Symbolic and Prophetic Significance

The imagery of a great number of people is also significant in prophetic literature. In Revelation 7:9, the BSB describes a vision of a multitude in heaven: "After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." This vision represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where people from all walks of life are gathered in worship.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the concept of a great number of people underscores the inclusivity of God's covenant and the expansive reach of His salvation. It reflects the biblical theme of multiplication and blessing, as seen in God's promises to the patriarchs and the growth of the early church. The presence of large crowds in the Gospels and Acts also highlights the communal aspect of faith and the collective response to God's call.

In summary, the "great number of people" in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness, the spread of His kingdom, and the ultimate gathering of believers in His eternal presence.