Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the fatherless, often synonymous with orphans, are frequently mentioned as a group deserving special care and protection. The Scriptures consistently reveal God's compassionate heart towards the fatherless, emphasizing His role as their helper and defender. This theme is woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments, underscoring the divine mandate to care for those without earthly fathers.Divine Advocacy and Protection God's concern for the fatherless is evident in His laws and commandments given to Israel. 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 passage highlights God's active role in ensuring justice and provision for the fatherless, placing them under His special care. The Psalms further illustrate God's protective nature towards the fatherless. Psalm 68:5 declares, "A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in His holy habitation." Here, God is portrayed as a father figure, offering the love, guidance, and protection that earthly fathers provide. This imagery reassures the fatherless of their value and security under God's watchful eye. God's Commands to His People The biblical mandate to care for the fatherless is not limited to divine action but extends to the responsibilities of God's people. In Exodus 22:22-23, the Israelites are commanded, "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." This command underscores the seriousness with which God views the treatment of the fatherless, promising His intervention on their behalf. Similarly, in Isaiah 1:17, the call to "Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor; defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow" is a directive for God's people to actively engage in the protection and advocacy for the vulnerable, including the fatherless. New Testament Affirmation The New Testament continues to affirm God's concern for the fatherless. 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 from being polluted by the world." This verse highlights the care for orphans, synonymous with the fatherless, as a fundamental expression of true faith and devotion to God. God's Promise of Provision Throughout Scripture, God promises to provide for the needs of the fatherless. In Psalm 146:9, it is written, "The LORD watches over the foreigner; He sustains the fatherless and the widow, but the ways of the wicked He frustrates." This assurance of sustenance and care reflects God's unwavering commitment to those who lack familial support. Conclusion The biblical portrayal of God's relationship with the fatherless is one of deep compassion and active involvement. Through His commands to His people and His own divine actions, God establishes Himself as the ultimate helper and protector of the fatherless, ensuring their justice, provision, and care. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 10:14You have seen it; for you behold mischief and spite, to requite it with your hand: the poor commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Prayer when one Begins to be Sick. The Advocate Promised. The Fourth Season, The Joyous Return Christian Sympathy Jabez I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also- The Unrivalled Friend Old Revival Hymns. The More Excellent Way Resources What does it mean that God is father to the fatherless? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about how widows are to be treated? | GotQuestions.org What is Christian Socialism? | 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 |
    |