Second-in-command
Jump to: ConcordanceThesaurusLibrarySubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
In biblical narratives, the role of a second-in-command is often depicted as a position of significant authority and responsibility, serving directly under a primary leader or ruler. This role is crucial in the administration and execution of duties, often involving governance, military leadership, or stewardship. The Bible provides several notable examples of individuals who served as second-in-command, illustrating the importance and influence of this position.

Joseph in Egypt

One of the most prominent examples of a second-in-command in the Bible is Joseph, the son of Jacob. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph eventually rose to a position of great authority in Egypt. Through a series of divinely orchestrated events, Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dreams, which foretold seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Recognizing Joseph's wisdom and discernment, Pharaoh appointed him as second-in-command over Egypt. Genesis 41:40-41 records Pharaoh's words to Joseph: "You shall be in charge of my house, and all my people are to obey your commands. Only with regard to the throne will I be greater than you." Joseph's role was pivotal in managing the resources of Egypt and ensuring the survival of many during the famine.

Mordecai in Persia

Another significant figure who served as second-in-command is Mordecai, a Jew living in Persia during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus). After exposing a plot to assassinate the king and later playing a crucial role in saving the Jewish people from destruction, Mordecai was elevated to a position of high authority. Esther 10:3 states, "For Mordecai the Jew was second only to King Xerxes, preeminent among the Jews, and held in high esteem by his many fellow Jews, because he worked for the good of his people and spoke up for the welfare of all the Jews." Mordecai's leadership and advocacy were instrumental in securing the safety and prosperity of the Jewish community in Persia.

Daniel in Babylon

Daniel, a prophet and statesman, also served in a capacity akin to second-in-command during the Babylonian and Medo-Persian empires. Known for his unwavering faith and exceptional wisdom, Daniel was appointed to high positions by several kings. In Daniel 6:3 , it is noted, "Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom." Daniel's influence and integrity were vital in maintaining justice and righteousness in a foreign land.

Biblical Themes and Significance

The role of a second-in-command in the Bible often highlights themes of divine providence, wisdom, and faithful stewardship. These individuals are typically portrayed as being chosen by God to fulfill specific purposes, often involving the preservation and deliverance of His people. Their accounts underscore the importance of humility, obedience, and reliance on God's guidance in positions of authority. Through their service, second-in-command figures demonstrate how God can use individuals in subordinate roles to accomplish His greater plans and purposes.
Library

First Word of Jesus on the Cross.
... others, the command of whom was given to Abenadar, an Arab by birth, who afterwards
took the name of Ctesiphon in baptism; and the second in command was Cassius ...
/.../the dolorous passion of our lord jesus christ/chapter xlii first word of.htm

The Guiding Pillar
... When Nelson was second in command at Copenhagen, the admiral in command of the fleet
hoisted the signal for recall, and Nelson put his telescope to his blind ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the guiding pillar.htm

Her Majesty's Ship "Assistance"
... Captain Ommanney was second in command of the expedition under the orders of Captain
Horatio Austin, CB, which was dispatched in May, 1850, in search of the ...
/.../murray/kalli the esquimaux christian /her majestys ship assistance.htm

Joseph, the Prime Minister
... is made the more intelligible by the probability which the study of Egyptian history
has given, that the Pharaoh who made him his second in command was one of ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/joseph the prime minister.htm

Thesaurus
Second-in-command (1 Occurrence)
Second-in-command. Second-first, Second-in-command. Secondly .
Multi-Version Concordance Second-in-command (1 Occurrence). ...
/s/second-in-command.htm - 6k

Secondly (2 Occurrences)

/s/secondly.htm - 7k

Second-first (1 Occurrence)
Second-first. Secondarily, Second-first. Second-in-command . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (WEY DBY YLT). Secondarily, Second-first. Second-in-command . ...
/s/second-first.htm - 6k

Resources
Is there a second blessing subsequent to salvation? | GotQuestions.org

What is the true meaning of the second commandment? | GotQuestions.org

What is Divine Command Theory? | GotQuestions.org

Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Concordance
Second-in-command (1 Occurrence)

Genesis 41:43
And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him: 'Abrech'; and he set him over all the land of Egypt.
(See NIV)

Subtopics

Second-in-command

Related Terms

Secondarily (1 Occurrence)

Holy (1097 Occurrences)

Spirit (706 Occurrences)

Varieties (5 Occurrences)

Nehemiah (9 Occurrences)

Organization (1 Occurrence)

Language (112 Occurrences)

Gehenna (12 Occurrences)

Governings (1 Occurrence)

Glory (590 Occurrences)

Tertullus (2 Occurrences)

Emmaus (1 Occurrence)

Enrogel (4 Occurrences)

En-rogel (4 Occurrences)

Malchiel (3 Occurrences)

Powers (43 Occurrences)

Presented (114 Occurrences)

Creeds

Ability (34 Occurrences)

Arabic

Ahasbai (1 Occurrence)

Appointment (16 Occurrences)

Anammelech (1 Occurrence)

Seconds (4 Occurrences)

Signifies (4 Occurrences)

Second-in-command (1 Occurrence)

Flame (61 Occurrences)

Gamaliel (7 Occurrences)

Loving (292 Occurrences)

Simon (75 Occurrences)

Cure (28 Occurrences)

Miraculous (54 Occurrences)

Nebo (13 Occurrences)

Laws (184 Occurrences)

Helpings (1 Occurrence)

Agrarian

Afterwards (143 Occurrences)

Prophets (270 Occurrences)

Providence (3 Occurrences)

Disease (213 Occurrences)

Son (25967 Occurrences)

Render (95 Occurrences)

Ethics

Sanctification (13 Occurrences)

Diseases (38 Occurrences)

Bishop (4 Occurrences)

Prophecy (37 Occurrences)

Botany

Abstinence (2 Occurrences)

Greece (15 Occurrences)

Appointed (385 Occurrences)

Malachi (2 Occurrences)

Labour (119 Occurrences)

Ancient (64 Occurrences)

Service (317 Occurrences)

Jesus (10891 Occurrences)

Creed

Levites (267 Occurrences)

Priests (451 Occurrences)

Peter (181 Occurrences)

Healers (1 Occurrence)

Valley (187 Occurrences)

History (57 Occurrences)

Proper (62 Occurrences)

Israel (27466 Occurrences)

Jordan (188 Occurrences)

Logos

God (45911 Occurrences)

Daniel (74 Occurrences)

Man (26072 Occurrences)

Evolution

Names (133 Occurrences)

Baptism (76 Occurrences)

Text (5 Occurrences)

Religion (23 Occurrences)

Monthly (11 Occurrences)

Book (211 Occurrences)

Sodomite (1 Occurrence)

Second-first
Top of Page
Top of Page