Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, salutations were an essential part of communication, often conveyed through messengers. This practice is evident throughout both the Old and New Testaments, reflecting the cultural and social norms of the ancient Near East and the early Christian communities.Old Testament Instances In the Old Testament, sending greetings through messengers was a common practice among leaders and individuals. For example, in 1 Samuel 25:5-6, David sends ten young men to greet Nabal: "So David sent ten young men and said to the young men, 'Go up to Carmel, visit Nabal, and greet him in my name. Then you are to say to him: ‘Long life to you, and peace to you and your house, and peace to all that is yours!’" This passage illustrates the formal and respectful nature of salutations, often accompanied by blessings of peace and prosperity. Another instance is found in 2 Kings 10:1-2, where Jehu sends letters to the rulers of Jezreel, the elders, and the guardians of Ahab's children, conveying his intentions and seeking their allegiance. The use of messengers to deliver these letters underscores the importance of personal communication in maintaining political and social relationships. New Testament Instances In the New Testament, the practice of sending salutations through messengers continues, particularly within the early Christian church. The Apostle Paul frequently used this method to communicate with the churches he established. In Romans 16:1-2, Paul commends Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae, to the believers in Rome: "I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints and assist her with anything she may need from you, for she has been a great help to many people, including me." Here, Phoebe acts as a messenger, carrying Paul's greetings and instructions to the Roman church. Similarly, in Colossians 4:7-8, Paul sends Tychicus to the Colossian church: "Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about us, and that he may encourage your hearts." Tychicus serves as a trusted messenger, delivering not only greetings but also news and encouragement from Paul. Cultural and Theological Significance The use of messengers to convey salutations in biblical times highlights the value placed on personal relationships and community. Greetings were not merely formalities but expressions of goodwill, peace, and mutual support. They often included blessings and prayers, reflecting the spiritual dimension of these interactions. In a theological context, the practice of sending salutations through messengers underscores the interconnectedness of the body of Christ. The early church, though geographically dispersed, maintained unity and fellowship through these communications. Messengers like Phoebe and Tychicus played a crucial role in strengthening the bonds between believers, facilitating the spread of the Gospel, and ensuring the well-being of the Christian community. Overall, the biblical practice of sending salutations through messengers reveals the importance of communication in fostering relationships, conveying blessings, and maintaining the unity of God's people across distances. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 25:5,14And David sent out ten young men, and David said to the young men, Get you up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name: Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 8:10 Library Christ's Messengers: their Equipment and Work The First Evangelists The First Stages. Ch. 9:51 to 13:21 Acts XXVIII The Earlier New Testament Writings. The General Conference of 1836 The Christian's Peace and the Christian's Consistency Appendix. Subject Index The Reaction against Egypt Resources What is the Hail Mary that Catholics say so often? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of 2 John - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from what the Bible says about Paul and Timothy? | GotQuestions.org Salutations: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Salutations were Given by all Passers-By Salutations were Given by Brethren to Each Other Salutations were Given by Inferiors to Their Superiors Salutations were Given by Superiors to Inferiors Salutations were Given: On Entering a House Salutations: "Are You Well, My Brother?" Salutations: "May God be Gracious to You" Salutations: "Peace (Hebrew: Shalom) to This House" Salutations: "Peace to You" (Hebrew: Shalomleka) Salutations: "Peace" (Hebrew: Shalom) Salutations: Denied to Persons of Bad Character Salutations: Expressions Used as all Hail Salutations: Expressions Used as Art Thou in Health? Salutations: Expressions Used as Blessed be Thou of the Lord Salutations: Expressions Used as God be Gracious to Thee Salutations: Expressions Used as Hail Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace be to This House Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace be With Thee Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace to Thee, and Peace to Thine House, and Peace to All Salutations: Expressions Used as The Blessing of the Lord be Upon You, we Bless You in The Salutations: Expressions Used as The Lord be With You Salutations: Expressions Used as The Lord Bless Thee Salutations: from a Master to his Servants, "May the Lord be With You" Salutations: Given to Christ in Derision Salutations: Often Accompanied by Bowing Frequently to the Ground Salutations: Often Accompanied by Embracing and Kissing the Feet Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling on the Neck and Kissing Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling Prostrate on the Ground Salutations: Often Accompanied by Kissing the Dust Salutations: Often Accompanied by Laying Hold of the Bear With the Right Hand Salutations: Often Accompanied by Touching the Hem of the Garment Salutations: Often Sent by Letter Salutations: Often Sent Through Messengers Salutations: Persons in Haste Excused from Giving or Receiving Salutations: Servants to Their Masters, "May the Lord Bless You" Salutations: The Jews Condemned for Giving, Only to Their Countrymen Salutations: The Pharisees Condemned for Seeking, in Public Related Terms |
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