Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "fatherless" refers to orphans or children who have lost their fathers, often leaving them vulnerable and without protection or provision. The Scriptures emphasize God's special concern and care for the fatherless, highlighting His role as their defender and judge.Divine Advocacy for the Fatherless God's commitment to the fatherless is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. He is portrayed as a protector and advocate for those who lack earthly guardians. 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 underscores God's active role in ensuring justice and provision for the fatherless, aligning His divine character with righteousness and compassion. Judgment and Justice The Lord's promise to execute judgment on behalf of the fatherless is a testament to His unwavering justice. Psalm 10:14 declares, "But You have seen it, for You observe trouble and grief, to repay it by Your hand. The helpless commit themselves to You; You are the helper of the fatherless." Here, God is depicted as both a witness to the injustices faced by the fatherless and as their ultimate helper, ensuring that wrongs are righted. Protection from Exploitation The Bible sternly warns against exploiting or oppressing the fatherless. Exodus 22:22-24 states, "You must not mistreat any widow or fatherless child. 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 highlights the severe consequences for those who harm the fatherless, reflecting God's protective stance and His readiness to act in their defense. God as Father to the Fatherless In Psalm 68:5, God is described as "A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy habitation." This imagery presents God as a paternal figure to those who lack earthly fathers, offering them the security and love that they need. His holy habitation signifies His divine authority and willingness to intervene on behalf of the vulnerable. Call to Imitate God's Justice Believers are called to emulate God's justice and compassion towards the fatherless. James 1:27 instructs, "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 directive encourages Christians to actively participate in the care and support of the fatherless, reflecting God's heart and character in their actions. Conclusion The biblical narrative consistently portrays God as the defender and judge of the fatherless, emphasizing His commitment to justice and mercy. Through His divine intervention and the call for His followers to act justly, the fatherless are assured of God's unwavering protection and care. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 10:18He does execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loves the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 10:18 Library Proof that God did not Appoint the Levitical Dispensation for his ... "The House of Israel" Of Righteousness. Parallels from the Prophets to Illustrate Christ's Teaching in the ... The Precepts of the Apostle Concerning a Widow Indeed are Laid ... David's Anger In the Holy of Holies. In the Holy of Holies Sad Fasts Changed to Glad Feasts The Prophets were Sent from one and the Same Father from whom the ... 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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