Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "fatherless" refers to orphans or children who have lost their fathers, often leaving them vulnerable and in need of protection and care. The Scriptures consistently emphasize God's special concern for the fatherless, alongside widows and foreigners, as part of His broader call for justice and mercy.Divine Protection and Advocacy The Bible portrays God as a defender of the fatherless, highlighting His compassion and justice. In Deuteronomy 10:18, it is written, "He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing." This verse underscores God's active role in ensuring justice and provision for those who are most vulnerable in society. Mosaic Law and Social Responsibility The Mosaic Law includes specific commandments to protect and provide for the fatherless. In Exodus 22:22-24, the Israelites are warned, "You must not mistreat any widow or orphan. If you do mistreat them, and they cry out to Me in distress, I will surely hear their cry. My anger will be kindled, and I will kill you with the sword; then your wives will become widows and your children fatherless." This passage illustrates the severe consequences for those who oppress or neglect the fatherless, reflecting God's deep concern for their welfare. Prophetic Condemnation of Oppression The prophets frequently condemned the mistreatment of the fatherless as a sign of societal corruption and moral decay. Isaiah 1:17 calls the people to "learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor; defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow." Similarly, Jeremiah 22:3 exhorts, "This is what the LORD says: Do justice and righteousness. Rescue the victim of robbery from the hand of his oppressor. Do not exploit or brutalize the foreigner, the fatherless, or the widow." Wisdom Literature and Ethical Living The wisdom literature of the Bible also addresses the treatment of the fatherless. Proverbs 23:10-11 warns, "Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you." This passage highlights the ethical obligation to respect the rights and property of the fatherless, with the assurance that God Himself will defend their cause. New Testament Affirmation The New Testament continues the theme of caring for the fatherless, emphasizing the Christian duty to practice pure and undefiled religion. James 1:27 states, "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." This verse reaffirms the call to compassionate action and personal holiness as integral to the Christian faith. Divine Retribution for Injustice Throughout Scripture, there is a consistent warning of divine retribution against those who exploit or neglect the fatherless. Psalm 68:5 describes God as "a father to the fatherless, a defender of widows," reinforcing His protective role. The biblical narrative makes it clear that those who fail to uphold justice for the fatherless invite God's judgment upon themselves, as seen in Malachi 3:5: "Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against sorcerers, adulterers, and perjurers, against oppressors of the widows and the fatherless, and against those who deprive the foreigner of justice, but do not fear Me, says the LORD of Hosts." In summary, the biblical mandate to care for the fatherless is a profound expression of God's justice and mercy. The Scriptures consistently call for the protection and advocacy of the fatherless, warning of the severe consequences for those who oppress or neglect them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 27:19Cursed be he that perverts the judgment of the stranger, fatherless, and widow. And all the people shall say, Amen. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Last Word of Prophecy General Service to John, Precursor, Prophet and Baptist of the ... David's Anger "The House of Israel" Jeremiah Of Civil Government. Sad Fasts Changed to Glad Feasts National Sins and Miseries The Promises of the Law and the Gospel Reconciled. The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment: Resources What does the Bible say about orphans and widows? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about charity? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about social justice? | GotQuestions.org Fatherless: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Fatherless: A Curse on Those Who Oppress Fatherless: A Type of Zion in Affliction Fatherless: Blessedness of Taking Care of Fatherless: Daughters of Zelophehad Fatherless: God Will: Be a Father of Fatherless: God Will: Be a Helper of Fatherless: God Will: Execute the Judgment of Fatherless: God Will: Hear the Cry of Fatherless: God Will: Punish Those Who Judge Not Fatherless: God Will: Punish Those Who Oppress Fatherless: Let Them Share in Our Blessings Fatherless: Promises With Respect To Fatherless: The Wicked: Judge not For Fatherless: The Wicked: Murder Fatherless: The Wicked: Oppress Fatherless: The Wicked: Overwhelm Fatherless: Visit in Affliction Fatherless: Wrong Not, in Judgment Related Terms |
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