Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of "token" often refers to a sign or symbol that represents a covenant, promise, or significant event. The giving of presents or gifts as tokens is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing various aspects of relationships, covenants, and divine favor.Old Testament Context 1. Covenantal Tokens: In Genesis 9:12-13, God establishes the rainbow as a token of His covenant with Noah and all living creatures, promising never to destroy the earth with a flood again. "And God said, 'This is the sign of the covenant I am making between Me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth.'" 2. Tokens of Friendship and Alliance: In Genesis 21:27-30, Abraham and Abimelech exchange sheep and cattle as a token of their covenant, signifying peace and mutual respect. "So Abraham brought sheep and cattle and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a covenant. Abraham set apart seven ewe lambs from the flock, and Abimelech asked him, 'What is the meaning of these seven ewe lambs you have set apart?' He replied, 'You are to accept the seven ewe lambs from my hand as a witness that I dug this well.'" 3. Tokens of Love and Favor: In Genesis 24:22, Abraham's servant gives Rebekah jewelry as a token of Isaac's intention to marry her, symbolizing love and commitment. "And after the camels had finished drinking, the man took a gold ring weighing a half shekel, and two bracelets for her wrists weighing ten shekels of gold." New Testament Context 1. Tokens of Divine Favor: In the New Testament, the concept of tokens is less about physical gifts and more about spiritual signs. In Acts 2:38, the gift of the Holy Spirit is described as a token of God's promise and favor to believers. "Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'" 2. Tokens of Fellowship and Support: In Philippians 4:15-18, Paul acknowledges the gifts sent by the Philippians as tokens of their fellowship and support for his ministry. "Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God." Theological Significance The giving of presents as tokens in the Bible often signifies deeper spiritual truths. Tokens serve as tangible reminders of God's promises, human commitments, and the bonds of love and fellowship. They are not merely material exchanges but carry profound spiritual and relational significance. In the biblical narrative, tokens and presents underscore the importance of covenantal relationships, divine favor, and the expression of love and support within the community of faith. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 21:27,30And Abraham took sheep and oxen, and gave them to Abimelech; and both of them made a covenant. Nave's Topical Index Library The End of Cambyses. Letter Xliv. To Marcella. Easter Tuesday Christ Triumphant We May Give yet Another Illustration, if it Seems Good to You. ... "We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous. ... Gethsemane Chapter viii The Reconnoitering of Greece. How Herod Twice Sailed to Agrippa; and How Upon the Complaint in ... Resources Are there parallels between Jewish wedding traditions and our relationship to Christ? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the seven baptisms mentioned in the Bible, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the rainbow? | GotQuestions.org Token: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Token: Blood of the Paschal Lamb Token: Circumcision, of the Covenant of Abraham Token: Consecration of the Firstborn Token: Miracles of Moses, of the Divine Authority of his Missions Token: Prayer for Tokens of Mercy Token: Rainbow, That the Earth Would Never be Destroyed by a Flood Token: Sun and Moon for Time and Seasons Related Terms |
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