Topical Encyclopedia In the Scriptures, the imagery of the lamb is frequently employed to convey innocence, purity, and sacrificial love. This symbolism is poignantly illustrated in the context of ministers and believers who are called to serve among the ungodly, often described metaphorically as "wolves." This concept is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who instructed His disciples on the nature of their mission in a world that is often hostile to the message of the Gospel.Biblical Foundation The primary scriptural reference for this theme is found in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus sends out His disciples with a clear and sobering directive: "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16). This passage encapsulates the dual nature of the believer's calling: to be wise and discerning, yet maintaining a posture of innocence and purity. The Nature of the Lamb The lamb, as a symbol, is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative. It represents the qualities of meekness, vulnerability, and a willingness to sacrifice. These attributes are exemplified in Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). Christ's sacrificial role as the Lamb is the ultimate model for believers who are called to minister in challenging environments. Ministers Among the Ungodly The metaphor of being "lambs among wolves" highlights the inherent challenges faced by those who carry the Gospel into hostile or indifferent territories. The ungodly, represented as wolves, may exhibit aggression, deceit, and opposition to the truth. Yet, the believer is called to engage with them, not with the weapons of the world, but with the transformative power of the Gospel, characterized by love, patience, and integrity. Practical Implications 1. Wisdom and Discernment: Ministers are encouraged to be "shrewd as snakes," employing wisdom and discernment in their interactions. This involves understanding the cultural and spiritual landscape, recognizing potential threats, and navigating them with prudence. 2. Innocence and Purity: Maintaining a heart of innocence and purity is crucial. This does not imply naivety but rather a steadfast commitment to righteousness and truth, even in the face of adversity. 3. Reliance on the Holy Spirit: The task of ministering among the ungodly requires a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance, strength, and protection. The Spirit empowers believers to speak boldly and act justly, reflecting the character of Christ. 4. Perseverance in Suffering: Just as Christ endured suffering, ministers may also face persecution and hardship. The call to be a lamb among wolves is a call to perseverance, trusting in God's ultimate justice and reward. Conclusion The imagery of the lamb among wolves serves as a powerful reminder of the Christian's mission in a fallen world. It calls believers to embody the virtues of Christ—wisdom, innocence, and sacrificial love—while engaging with those who may oppose the message of the Gospel. Through the strength and guidance of the Holy Spirit, ministers can faithfully fulfill their calling, confident in the promise of God's presence and provision. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 10:3Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Church as She Should Be Scriptural Predictions of an Apostasy. Later English Reformers. Later English Reformers Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. Paul's Departure and Crown; Introduction to Oration ii. Doctrinal and Moral Treatises. Index of Subjects. An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources What is the marriage supper of the Lamb? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Agnus Dei? | GotQuestions.org What are the seven seals of Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Lamb: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lamb: Not to be Seethed (Boiled) in Its own Mother's Milk The Lamb of Any Thing Dear or Cherished The Lamb of Christ As a Sacrifice The Lamb: (Among Wolves) of Ministers Among the Ungodly The Lamb: (Brought to Slaughter) of the Wicked Under Judgments The Lamb: (Consumed in Sacrifice) of Complete Destruction of The The Lamb: (Deserted and Exposed) of Israel Deprived of God's The Lamb: (Patience of) the Patience of Christ The Lamb: An Extensive Commerce In The Lamb: Considered a Great Delicacy The Lamb: Covenants Confirmed by Gift of The Lamb: Exposed to Danger from Wild Beasts The Lamb: Numbers of, Given by Josiah to the People for Sacrifice The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice by the Wicked not Accepted The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: At a Year Old The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: At the Passover The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: Every Morning and Evening The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: Females The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: from the Earliest Times The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: Males The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: While Sucking The Lamb: The First Born of an Donkey to be Redeemed With The Lamb: The Image of, Was the First Impression of on Money The Lamb: The Shepherd's Care For The Lamb: The Young of the Flock The Lamb: Tribute often Paid In 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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