The term "strayeth" is an archaic form of the verb "stray," which means to wander from a path or to deviate from a set course. In biblical contexts, it often refers to the spiritual wandering or deviation from God's commandments and righteous living. The concept of straying is frequently addressed in Scripture, highlighting the human tendency to drift away from divine guidance and the need for repentance and return to God.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 53:6 : "We all like sheep have gone astray, each one has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid upon Him the iniquity of us all." This verse poignantly illustrates the universal nature of straying from God, likening humanity to sheep that have wandered off. It underscores the need for a Savior, as the iniquity of all who stray is borne by the Messiah.

2. Psalm 119:176 : "I have strayed like a lost sheep; seek Your servant, for I have not forgotten Your commandments." Here, the psalmist acknowledges his own tendency to stray and pleads for God's intervention. Despite his wandering, he expresses a deep commitment to God's commandments, seeking divine assistance to return to the right path.

3. Matthew 18:12-13 : "What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go to look for the one that is lost? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray." Jesus uses this parable to illustrate God's relentless pursuit of those who stray. It emphasizes the value of each individual soul and the joy in their restoration.

4. James 5:19-20 : "My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, consider this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and cover over a multitude of sins." This passage highlights the responsibility of believers to help those who stray return to the truth. It underscores the redemptive power of guiding a wayward soul back to righteousness.

Theological Implications:

The concept of straying is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative of sin and redemption. It reflects the inherent weakness of human nature and the propensity to deviate from God's will. Straying is often associated with disobedience, idolatry, and moral failure. However, the Bible consistently presents God's grace and mercy as the remedy for straying. Through repentance and faith, individuals can be restored to a right relationship with God.

The imagery of sheep and shepherd is frequently used to describe the relationship between God and His people. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus seeks out those who have strayed, offering forgiveness and reconciliation. This theme is central to the message of the Gospel, which calls all who have wandered to return to the fold through the redemptive work of Christ.

Practical Application:

Believers are encouraged to remain vigilant in their spiritual walk, continually aligning their lives with God's Word to avoid straying. Regular prayer, study of Scripture, and fellowship with other believers are essential practices to maintain a steadfast faith. Additionally, Christians are called to support and restore those who have strayed, reflecting God's love and compassion in their efforts to guide others back to the truth.

Psalm LXVII.
... He hath added, "And the Truth." Who strayeth in the Truth? He strayeth that hath
departed from the Truth. The Truth is Christ, the Way is Christ: walk therein. ...
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Strayeth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Strayeth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 21:16 The man that
wandereth out of the way of understanding Shall rest in the assembly of the dead. ...
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Strayed (9 Occurrences)

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Straying (5 Occurrences)

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