Topical Encyclopedia The term "fatherless" in the Bible refers to children who have lost their fathers, often leaving them vulnerable and without protection or provision. The Scriptures consistently emphasize God's special concern for the fatherless and command His people to treat them with justice and compassion.Biblical Mandate The Bible explicitly instructs the people of God not to oppress the fatherless. In Exodus 22:22-24 , the Lord commands, "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 underscores the seriousness with which God views the mistreatment of the fatherless, associating it with severe divine retribution. Justice and Righteousness The call to protect and provide for the fatherless is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament. Deuteronomy 10:18 declares, "He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing." Here, God is portrayed as the ultimate defender of the fatherless, ensuring that they receive justice and care. In Isaiah 1:17 , the prophet exhorts the people, "Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow." This verse highlights the active role that believers are to take in advocating for the rights and needs of the fatherless, aligning themselves with God's heart for justice. Covenantal Responsibility The covenant community of Israel was charged with the responsibility to care for the fatherless as part of their obedience to God. Deuteronomy 24:19-21 instructs, "When you reap the harvest in your field and forget a sheaf, do not go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands." This law ensured that the fatherless had access to the resources necessary for their survival, reflecting God's provision through the community. New Testament Continuity The New Testament continues this theme of care 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 affirms that true faith is demonstrated through practical acts of love and service to those in need, including the fatherless. God's Character and Compassion Throughout Scripture, God's character is revealed as one of compassion and mercy towards the fatherless. Psalm 68:5 describes Him as "A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in His holy habitation." This portrayal of God as a father to the fatherless provides comfort and assurance of His unwavering support and care. Prophetic Warnings The prophets frequently warned against the oppression of the fatherless, associating such actions with societal decay and divine judgment. Malachi 3:5 warns, "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. This passage highlights the seriousness of neglecting justice for the fatherless and the inevitable consequences of such neglect. In summary, the biblical mandate to "oppress not" the fatherless is a profound expression of God's justice and compassion. It calls believers to reflect God's character by actively seeking the welfare of the fatherless, ensuring they are treated with dignity and care. Torrey's Topical Textbook Zechariah 7:10And oppress not the widow, nor the fatherless, the stranger, nor the poor; and let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of Righteousness. Proof that God did not Appoint the Levitical Dispensation for his ... Jeremiah The Prophets were Sent from one and the Same Father from whom the ... "The House of Israel" Sad Fasts Changed to Glad Feasts The Eighth Commandment Psalm 94 Psalm 10 The Promises of the Law and the Gospel Reconciled. 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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