The concept of "spreading abroad" in the Bible often refers to the dissemination of God's word, the expansion of His people, and the influence of His power and glory throughout the earth. This theme is prevalent in both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating God's desire for His presence and message to reach all nations.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the idea of spreading abroad is frequently associated with the growth and multiplication of the Israelites. God's covenant with Abraham included the promise that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore (Genesis 22:17). This promise implied a spreading abroad of Abraham's lineage, which would eventually become a great nation.

The book of Exodus recounts the rapid multiplication of the Israelites in Egypt, despite their oppression. "But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread; so the Egyptians came to dread the Israelites" (Exodus 1:12). Here, the spreading abroad of the Israelites is seen as a fulfillment of God's promise and a testament to His faithfulness.

The Psalms also reflect the theme of spreading God's glory and knowledge among the nations. Psalm 67:2-3 states, "that Your ways may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations. Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You." This passage emphasizes the desire for God's ways and salvation to be spread abroad, reaching all corners of the earth.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of spreading abroad takes on a more explicit missionary dimension. Jesus' Great Commission to His disciples in Matthew 28:19-20 commands them to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This directive underscores the importance of spreading the Gospel message to all nations, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

The book of Acts records the early church's efforts to spread the message of Christ. Acts 8:4 notes, "Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went." Persecution in Jerusalem led to the dispersion of believers, who then spread the Gospel throughout Judea and Samaria, fulfilling Jesus' command in Acts 1:8 : "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

The Apostle Paul played a significant role in spreading the Gospel abroad. His missionary journeys, as recorded in the book of Acts, took him across the Roman Empire, establishing churches and spreading the message of Christ to both Jews and Gentiles. In Romans 15:19 , Paul writes, "By the power of signs and wonders, and by the power of the Spirit of God, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum."

Theological Implications

The theme of spreading abroad in the Bible highlights God's sovereign plan to make His name known among all peoples. It reflects His desire for a relationship with humanity and His intention to bless all nations through the knowledge of Him. This spreading is not merely geographical but also spiritual, as it involves the transformation of hearts and minds through the power of the Gospel.

The biblical mandate to spread God's word abroad continues to inspire and challenge believers today, calling them to participate in God's mission to reach every tribe, tongue, and nation with the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.