Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, the role of a "First Counsellor" among the officers of the kings of Israel and Judah is a significant position, often associated with wisdom, guidance, and the administration of the kingdom. This role is not explicitly titled as "First Counsellor" in the Scriptures, but the function can be seen in the duties and influence of certain key figures who served the kings.
Biblical Examples and Functions1.
Ahithophel: One of the most notable figures who served in a capacity akin to a First Counsellor was Ahithophel, who served King David. Ahithophel's counsel was highly esteemed, as noted in
2 Samuel 16:23: "Now the advice of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was like one who inquires of God; so was all the advice of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom." His wisdom and strategic insight were unparalleled, making him a crucial advisor in the royal court.
2.
Hushai the Archite: Another significant counsellor was Hushai, who served as a counter-counsel to Ahithophel during Absalom's rebellion. Hushai's loyalty to David and his ability to provide sound advice were instrumental in thwarting Ahithophel's counsel, as seen in
2 Samuel 17:14: "Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, 'The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than the advice of Ahithophel.' For the LORD had purposed to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel, in order that the LORD might bring disaster upon Absalom."
3.
Jehoiada the Priest: Although primarily a priest, Jehoiada played a crucial advisory role during the reign of King Joash. His influence extended beyond religious duties, as he provided guidance in matters of state and governance. His counsel was pivotal in the restoration of the temple and the reformation of worship practices, as recorded in
2 Kings 12:2: "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the years Jehoiada the priest instructed him."
Characteristics and ResponsibilitiesThe role of a First Counsellor involved several key responsibilities:
·
Wisdom and Discernment: A First Counsellor was expected to possess exceptional wisdom and discernment, providing guidance that aligned with God's will and the king's best interests.
·
Loyalty and Integrity: Loyalty to the king and integrity in counsel were paramount. The counsellor's advice could significantly impact the kingdom's direction and stability.
·
Strategic Planning: The counsellor often engaged in strategic planning, advising the king on military, political, and economic matters.
·
Mediation and Diplomacy: Acting as a mediator and diplomat, the counsellor facilitated communication between the king and other officials, as well as with foreign entities.
Theological SignificanceFrom a theological perspective, the role of a First Counsellor underscores the importance of seeking godly wisdom and guidance in leadership.
Proverbs 11:14 states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." This highlights the biblical principle that wise counsel is essential for righteous and effective governance.
In summary, while the title "First Counsellor" may not be explicitly used in the biblical text, the function and influence of such a role are evident in the lives of key figures who served the kings of Israel and Judah. Their contributions to the administration and spiritual direction of the kingdom reflect the vital role of godly counsel in leadership.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Chronicles 27:33And Ahithophel was the king's counselor: and Hushai the Archite was the king's companion:
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The Life of John Campbel Earl of Loudon.
... and king of kings, and by whom kings do reign ... in bodies, in ends, in offices and
officers, and although ... on his bended knees, before the throne, first swear the ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of john campbel.htm
The Betrayal
... to be installed purse-bearer to the Ring of kings, Chancellor of ... The first word he
spake to Judas, when the ... You that are Church-officers, do not conclude that ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 9 1863/the betrayal.htm
The Gospel of John
... second chapter, we find described there the first miracle performed ... with this the
words of 1 Kings 8:39 ... the people believed on Him, they "sent officers to take ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/why four gospels/the gospel of john.htm
Sharing Christ's Life
... the God, the glorious Saviour, the King of kings, the Wonderful ... by the Providence
of God, Pilate's officers were not ... They brake the legs of the first and second ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 60 1914/sharing christs life.htm
Christ is Glorious --Let us Make Him Known
... We cannot depend upon parliament, nor kings, nor queens. ... men let us rally under our
Church-officers, and follow ... First, you must shine; break the pitcher which ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 10 1864/christ is gloriouslet us make.htm
The Life of the Honourable Archibald Campbel Marquis of Argyle.
... sermon by Mr. Robert Douglas from 2 Kings 2:17 ... and so ascending the stage, attended
by the officers of the ... in forming than he had days allowed at first to bring ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of the honourable.htm
Of Civil Government.
... And, first, I would have the reader carefully to attend ... of your vineyards, and give
to his officers, and to ... things could not be done legally by kings, whom the ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 20 of civil government.htm
Babylonia and Assyria
... the gods of light and law, had first to do ... of reckoning time by means of certain
officers called limmi ... too, carefully kept the annals of their kings, and took a ...
/.../early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter vi babylonia and assyria.htm
Appendix 2 Extracts from the Babylon Talmud
... But he indicates the end of the first night watch ... said); for this is the way of kings,
to rise ... covenant or not." And this, although the officers stood around ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/appendix 2 extracts from the.htm
Christ
... murmurings and gave them rest; and the officers returning to ... in a single case till
he has first punished the ... day they are freemen and walk as kings, and they ...
//christianbookshelf.org/haldeman/christ christianity and the bible/christ.htm
Resources
What can we learn from the laws that God gave for the kings of Israel? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Elisha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that God is the God of the hills and valleys (1 Kings 20:28)? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus