The phrase "the rest of the people" appears in various contexts throughout the Bible, often referring to groups distinct from the primary subjects of a narrative or command. This term can denote those who remain after a significant event, those who are not part of a specific covenant or group, or those who are not leaders or prominent figures.

Old Testament Contexts

1. Post-Exilic Community: In the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, "the rest of the people" refers to the broader community of Israelites who returned from Babylonian exile. These individuals, while not necessarily leaders or priests, played a crucial role in the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish community. For instance, Nehemiah 10:28 states, "The rest of the people—the priests, Levites, gatekeepers, singers, temple servants, and all who had separated themselves from the peoples of the land to adhere to the Law of God—along with their wives and all their sons and daughters who are able to understand."

2. Covenantal Distinction: In the historical narratives, "the rest of the people" can also refer to those who are not part of the covenant community. For example, in Joshua 8:24 , after the Israelites defeated Ai, it is recorded, "When Israel had finished killing all the men of Ai in the fields and in the wilderness where they had pursued them, and all of them had fallen by the sword until they were destroyed, all Israel returned to Ai and struck it down with the sword." Here, "the rest of the people" implies those who were not part of Israel and thus outside the covenant.

3. Judgment and Consequences: In prophetic literature, "the rest of the people" can sometimes refer to those who face judgment or consequences due to the actions of their leaders or the nation as a whole. In 2 Kings 25:11 , during the Babylonian conquest, it is noted, "Then Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried into exile the rest of the people who remained in the city—the deserters who had gone over to the king of Babylon, along with the rest of the multitude."

New Testament Contexts

1. General Population: In the New Testament, "the rest of the people" often refers to the general populace, distinct from specific groups like the disciples or religious leaders. In Acts 5:13 , it is mentioned, "No one else dared to join them, even though the people spoke highly of them." Here, "the rest of the people" indicates those who were not part of the early Christian community but observed their actions.

2. Distinction from Believers: In the epistles, there is sometimes a distinction made between believers and "the rest of the people," highlighting the unique identity and calling of Christians. For example, in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 , Paul writes, "Brothers, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who are without hope." This passage contrasts believers with "the rest," emphasizing the hope found in Christ.

Theological Implications

The use of "the rest of the people" throughout Scripture underscores themes of covenant, community, and distinction. It highlights the importance of being part of God's chosen people and the responsibilities and blessings that come with it. This term also serves as a reminder of the broader human context in which God's redemptive work unfolds, involving not only the leaders and prominent figures but also the ordinary individuals who contribute to the fulfillment of God's purposes.