Topical Bible: Servant: Bond used As Soldiers by Abraham

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the concept of servants, particularly those in a bond-servant capacity, is multifaceted, encompassing various roles and responsibilities. One notable instance of bond-servants being utilized as soldiers is found in the life of the patriarch Abraham. This event is recorded in the Book of Genesis, where Abraham's leadership and the loyalty of his household are prominently displayed.

Biblical Account

The account of Abraham employing his bond-servants as soldiers is found in Genesis 14. This chapter describes a coalition of kings who waged war against the cities of the plain, including Sodom and Gomorrah. During this conflict, Lot, Abraham's nephew, was taken captive along with his possessions. Upon hearing this news, Abraham took decisive action to rescue Lot.

Genesis 14:14 states: "And when Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he mobilized the 318 trained men born in his household, and he pursued the invaders as far as Dan." This verse highlights several key aspects of Abraham's household and his bond-servants:

1. Trained Men: The text specifies that these were "trained men," indicating that Abraham had prepared his household for such eventualities. This preparation suggests a level of organization and foresight, as well as the capability to defend and protect his family and possessions.

2. Born in His Household: The phrase "born in his household" implies that these men were not hired mercenaries but were part of Abraham's extended family structure. They were likely bond-servants who had been with Abraham for a significant period, possibly born to other servants within his household.

3. Loyalty and Trust: The fact that Abraham could mobilize 318 men from his household reflects the loyalty and trust that existed between him and his servants. This bond was strong enough to compel them to follow him into battle, risking their lives for the sake of their master and his family.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, it was not uncommon for wealthy patriarchs like Abraham to have large households that included servants and bond-servants. These individuals often played crucial roles in the economic and social life of the household. In times of conflict, they could be called upon to serve as soldiers, defending the interests of their master.

The use of bond-servants as soldiers by Abraham also underscores the patriarchal system of the time, where the head of the household wielded significant authority and responsibility. Abraham's ability to lead and command such a force demonstrates his status and influence in the region.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, this episode in Abraham's life illustrates themes of covenant loyalty and divine providence. Abraham's successful rescue of Lot not only highlights his leadership but also God's favor and protection over him. The narrative serves as a testament to the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, ensuring his safety and prosperity.

Furthermore, the use of bond-servants in this context can be seen as a reflection of the broader biblical theme of servanthood, where loyalty and service are valued and rewarded. Abraham's relationship with his servants exemplifies a model of stewardship and care, where even those in servitude are treated with dignity and respect.

In summary, the account of Abraham using his bond-servants as soldiers provides insight into the social and familial structures of the time, as well as the theological themes of loyalty, leadership, and divine providence.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 14:14
And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them to Dan.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Consecration to God --Illustrated by Abraham's Circumcision
... men than want of chastity to the marriage-bond made with ... that the word "everlasting"
had been used before in ... The Christian is the best servant of humanity in a ...
/.../spurgeons sermons volume 14 1868/consecration to godillustrated by abrahams.htm

Abraham's Offering up his Son Isaac
... reveal his will at this time to his faithful servant, whether by ... why will not Ishmael
do, the son of the bond-woman ... to do so; as I doubt not but he used to rise ...
/.../selected sermons of george whitefield/abrahams offering up his son.htm

Ephesians vi. 8-May
... same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free ... Yes, but he used them
not as servants. ... Now how shall thy servant listen, when thou his master art ...
/.../homily xxii ephesians vi 8-may.htm

Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility
... wisdom and righteousness, [247]24; the bond of union ... a removal, [462]275; the word
used of temptations ... what manner, [485]ib.; dismayed by Abraham's beating, [486 ...
/.../abraham his trial in egypt.htm

God Hath Made Manifest
... and in jeopardy, both learned and unlearned, both bond and free ... even to a laborer,
and to a servant, and to a ... [Literally, "weld together," used of organizing a ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of saint matthew/homily i god hath made.htm

Epistle Xlv. To Theoctista, Patrician .
... if I yet pleased men, should not be the servant of Christ ... For it used to be said
against them that under pretext ... were by no means holden by the bond of anathema ...
/.../the epistles of saint gregory the great/epistle xlv to theoctista patrician.htm

The Last Farewell in the Presence of the one Hundred and Fifty ...
... God, as to make His Majesty a fellow servant with ourselves ... a Divine rather than
by a carnal bond; if unwedded ... many men have in days gone by used us outrageously ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xlii the last farewell.htm

The Conversion of Paul.
... into an humble, penitent, grateful, loving servant of Jesus. ... transformation there
is nevertheless a bond of unity ... This is a proverbial expression used by Greek ...
/.../history of the christian church volume i/section 31 the conversion of.htm

Second Instruction.
... and gold, and concerning those who have used omens, and ... draw thy partner to thee
more strongly than any bond. ... slaves, put down the price of a servant of first ...
//christianbookshelf.org/chrysostom/on the priesthood/second instruction.htm

Of the Agreement of the Evangelists Matthew and Luke in the ...
... Himself, taking the form of a servant." [1755]. ... concupiscence and not conjugal affection
constitutes the marriage bond. ... no children of their own, used to adopt ...
/.../sermons on selected lessons of the new testament/sermon i of the agreement.htm