Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, a herald was a messenger or proclaimer of important news, often serving as a representative of a king or authority. The role of a herald is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, where they are seen as bearers of divine messages and proclamations.Old Testament References: 1. Proclamation of Kingship and Authority: · In the book of Daniel, heralds are mentioned in the context of royal decrees. Daniel 3:4 states, "Then the herald loudly proclaimed, 'O peoples, nations, and men of every language, this is what you are commanded:'" Here, the herald serves as the voice of King Nebuchadnezzar, announcing the command to worship the golden image. 2. Messengers of God: · The prophets of the Old Testament can be seen as heralds of God's word. Isaiah, for instance, is called to be a herald of good news. Isaiah 40:9 declares, "Go up on a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news. Lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good news. Lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the cities of Judah, 'Here is your God!'" New Testament References: 1. John the Baptist: · John the Baptist is a prominent herald in the New Testament, preparing the way for Jesus Christ. In Matthew 3:1-3 , it is written, "In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.' This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: 'A voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.'" 2. The Apostles: · The apostles are also seen as heralds of the Gospel, spreading the message of Jesus Christ throughout the world. In Acts 10:42 , Peter speaks of their commission: "And He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that He is the One appointed by God to judge the living and the dead." 3. Angelic Heralds: · Angels often serve as heralds in the New Testament, announcing significant events. For example, in Luke 2:10-11 , an angel heralds the birth of Christ to the shepherds: "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the City of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!'" Symbolism and Role: The role of a herald in Scripture is deeply symbolic, representing the communication of divine will and the announcement of significant events in God's redemptive plan. Heralds are often associated with the proclamation of repentance, salvation, and the coming of God's kingdom. They serve as intermediaries between God and humanity, tasked with delivering messages that call for a response from the people. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 40:3The voice of him that cries in the wilderness, Prepare you the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Nave's Topical Index Daniel 3:4 Library General Index. The Internal Witness of the Holy Spirit The General Conference of 1836 Appendix. The Great Controversy The Life of Sir Archibald Johnston, Lord Warriston. Saurin -- Paul Before Felix and Drusilla The Third vision "In Heaven" The New Testament view of the Old Testament A Great Religious Awakening. Resources Is Jesus real? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Coptic Christianity, and what do Coptic Christians believe? | GotQuestions.org What is the baptism of/by/with fire? | GotQuestions.org Herald: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |