Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a "standard" often referred to a banner or ensign used to rally people, signal movements, or call attention to important news or events. The use of standards was a common practice among ancient cultures, including the Israelites, as a means of communication and organization, especially in military contexts.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, standards were prominently used during the Israelites' wilderness journey and in their military campaigns. Each tribe of Israel had its own standard, which served as a rallying point and a symbol of identity. Numbers 2:2 states, "The Israelites are to camp around the Tent of Meeting at a distance from it, each man under his standard, with the banners of his family." The standard was not only a practical tool for organization but also held spiritual significance. It represented the presence and guidance of God among His people. In Isaiah 11:10 , the prophet speaks of a future time when a standard will be raised for the nations: "In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his resting place will be glorious." Prophetic and Messianic Implications The imagery of a standard is also used prophetically to signify the coming of the Messiah and the gathering of God's people. Isaiah 49:22 declares, "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Behold, I will lift up My hand to the nations, and raise My banner to the peoples; they will bring your sons in their arms and carry your daughters on their shoulders.'" This prophetic use of a standard underscores the role of the Messiah as a unifying figure who calls attention to the good news of salvation and the establishment of God's kingdom. The standard becomes a symbol of hope and divine intervention, drawing people from all nations to the truth of God's word. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the concept of a standard is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who is lifted up as the ultimate sign and source of salvation. John 12:32 records Jesus saying, "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself." Here, the lifting up of Christ on the cross becomes the ultimate standard, calling attention to the good news of redemption and eternal life. The apostles and early Christians continued this theme by proclaiming the gospel as the new standard for all humanity. The message of Christ crucified and risen became the rallying point for believers, drawing people from diverse backgrounds into the community of faith. Conclusion The use of standards in the Bible serves as a powerful metaphor for divine communication and the proclamation of significant news. Whether in the context of Israel's tribal organization, prophetic visions of the Messiah, or the New Testament revelation of Christ, the standard functions as a divine signal, calling attention to God's work and inviting all to respond to His call. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 50:2Declare you among the nations, and publish, and set up a standard; publish, and conceal not: say, Babylon is taken, Bel is confounded, Merodach is broken in pieces; her idols are confounded, her images are broken in pieces. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 51:12 Library The Agreement of Salvation by Grace with Walking in Good Works Be not Conformed to this World. Romans 12:2. Introduction From the Close of the General Conference of 1792 to the Close of ... Babylonia and Assyria Jer. 6:16 the Good Way. A Wise Minister Will be Successful. India as Carey Found It Early Christianity in Other Parts of These Islands. --Ninian in ... Christian Stewardship. Resources Why do so many Christians fail the “practice what you preach” standard? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Euthyphro's Dilemma? | GotQuestions.org Did God create sin? | GotQuestions.org Standard: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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