Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, sparrows were small, common birds that held little monetary value, yet they are mentioned in the Scriptures to illustrate profound spiritual truths. The sparrow's mention in the Bible serves as a reminder of God's providential care and the intrinsic value He places on all His creation, no matter how seemingly insignificant.Biblical Reference: The primary reference to sparrows being sold for a farthing is found in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus uses the example of sparrows to teach about God's attentive care for His creation and to reassure His followers of their worth in God's eyes: "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:29-31) A similar passage is found in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus again emphasizes God's care: "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." (Luke 12:6-7) Cultural and Economic Context: In the ancient Near East, sparrows were among the cheapest birds sold in the market, often used as offerings by those who could not afford more expensive sacrifices. The term "farthing" refers to a small Roman coin, the assarion, which was of minimal value. The sale of two sparrows for a farthing underscores their low economic worth, yet Jesus highlights that not one of these birds falls to the ground without the Father's knowledge and consent. Theological Significance: The sparrow's mention in these passages serves as a powerful metaphor for God's omniscience and care. Despite their lowly status, sparrows are under the watchful eye of the Creator. This teaching reassures believers of their immense value to God, far exceeding that of sparrows. It emphasizes that God's care extends to all aspects of life, and His providence governs even the smallest details. The imagery of sparrows also serves to comfort believers facing persecution or hardship. Jesus' words remind them that they are never forgotten by God, and their lives are of great worth. The assurance that God knows even the number of hairs on one's head further illustrates His intimate knowledge and concern for each individual. Spiritual Application: For Christians, the lesson of the sparrow is a call to trust in God's sovereignty and care. It encourages believers to live without fear, knowing that their lives are in the hands of a loving and attentive Father. The sparrow's example challenges believers to recognize their own worth in God's eyes and to find peace in His providential care, regardless of their circumstances or societal status. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 10:29Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. Nave's Topical Index Luke 12:6 Library Worry Versus Peace Introduction to Proverbs viii. 22 Continued. Absurdity of ... Psalm CXLVI. The Widened Mission, Its Perils and Defences The Meteor Shower (Preached at the Chapel Royal, St. James's, Nov. ... God's Works of Providence Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: Resources Why doesn't God respond when I cry out, “God, please help me!”? | GotQuestions.orgIs it wrong to be angry with God? | GotQuestions.org What is the book of Tobit? | GotQuestions.org Sparrow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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