Topical Encyclopedia The concept of God inspecting the earth is a recurring theme in the Bible, reflecting His omniscience, sovereignty, and intimate involvement with His creation. This inspection is not merely observational but is often linked to moral and spiritual evaluation, judgment, and care.Divine Omniscience and Sovereignty God's inspection of the earth underscores His omniscience. In Proverbs 15:3 , it is written, "The eyes of the LORD are in every place, observing the evil and the good." This verse highlights that nothing escapes God's notice, whether deeds of righteousness or acts of wickedness. His inspection is comprehensive and continuous, affirming His sovereign rule over all creation. Moral and Spiritual Evaluation Throughout Scripture, God's inspection often involves a moral and spiritual assessment of humanity. In Genesis 6:5 , prior to the flood, "The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time." Here, God's inspection leads to a divine response to human sinfulness, demonstrating His holiness and justice. Similarly, in Psalm 11:4 , it is declared, "The LORD is in His holy temple; the LORD is on His heavenly throne. His eyes are watching closely; they examine the sons of men." This examination is not passive but active, as God discerns the hearts and actions of individuals, distinguishing between the righteous and the wicked. Judgment and Accountability God's inspection often precedes judgment, as seen in the narrative of Sodom and Gomorrah. In Genesis 18:20-21 , the LORD says, "The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great. Their sin is so grievous that I will go down to see if their actions fully justify the outcry that has reached Me. If not, I will know." This passage illustrates God's thorough investigation before executing judgment, ensuring that His actions are just and warranted. The prophetic literature also emphasizes God's inspection leading to judgment. In Zephaniah 1:12 , God declares, "At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps and punish the men settled in complacency, who say in their hearts, ‘The LORD will not do good, nor will He do evil.’" This inspection is a precursor to divine retribution against complacency and disbelief. Care and Provision While God's inspection often relates to judgment, it also reflects His care and provision for the earth. In Psalm 33:13-15 , it is stated, "The LORD looks down from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. From His dwelling place He gazes on all who inhabit the earth. He shapes the hearts of each; He considers all their works." This passage reveals that God's inspection is not solely for judgment but also for understanding and guiding humanity according to His purposes. Moreover, in 2 Chronicles 16:9 , it is written, "For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him." Here, God's inspection is portrayed as a means of support and blessing for those who are faithful, highlighting His benevolent oversight. Conclusion The theme of God inspecting the earth is multifaceted, encompassing His omniscience, moral evaluation, judgment, and care. Through His divine inspection, God maintains His sovereign rule, ensuring that justice is upheld while also providing for and guiding His creation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Zechariah 4:10For who has despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Book ii. --Of the Harmony of the Old and New Laws. The Son the Ruler and Saviour of All. John Chapter vi. 41-59 John Chapter vi. 14-Jan Constant, Instant, Expectant Satan's Banquet Fourthly; all the [Credenda, Or] Doctrines, which the True, Simple ... Preface. The Political Constitution of Egypt The Church of Rome in the Third Century. Resources Does the Bible teach that the earth is flat? | GotQuestions.orgOld earth vs. young earth'what are the core issues in the debate? | GotQuestions.org What is old earth creationism? | GotQuestions.org Earth: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Earth: Ancient Notions Concerning Earth: Created by God by Christ The Earth: Burning at God Presence The Earth: Created to be Inhabited The Earth: Diversified by Hills and Mountains The Earth: Full of God's Glory The Earth: Full of God's Goodness The Earth: Full of God's Mercy The Earth: Full of God's Riches The Earth: God: Governs Supremely The Earth: God: Laid the Foundation of The Earth: God: Makes Fruitful The Earth: God: Shall be Exalted In The Earth: God: Suspended in Space The Earth: Ideas of the Ancients Respecting the Form of The Earth: Made to Mourn and Languish by Sin The Earth: Man by Nature is of The Earth: Man by Nature Minds the Thing of The Earth: Man: Brought a Curse On The Earth: Man: Given Dominion Over The Earth: Man: Shall Return To The Earth: Melting at God's Voice The Earth: Not to be Again Inundated The Earth: Saints Shall Inherit The Earth: Satan Goes to and Fro In The Earth: Shall be Filled With the Knowledge of God The Earth: Shining With God's Glory The Earth: Subject to God's Judgments The Earth: The Dry Land As Divided from Waters The Earth: The World in General The Earth: To be Dissolved by Fire The Earth: Trembling Before God Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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