Topical Encyclopedia The term "Wolf of the Wicked" is not a direct biblical phrase but rather a thematic concept derived from various scriptural references to wolves and their symbolic representation of danger, deceit, and destruction. In the Bible, wolves are often used metaphorically to describe individuals or groups that pose a threat to the faithful, embodying characteristics of cunning and predation.Biblical Symbolism of Wolves Wolves are frequently mentioned in the Bible as symbols of peril and treachery. In the Old Testament, the prophet Ezekiel warns of false prophets who are likened to ravenous wolves: "Her officials within her are like wolves tearing their prey, shedding blood, and destroying lives for dishonest gain" (Ezekiel 22:27). This imagery underscores the destructive nature of those who exploit and deceive others for personal gain. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself uses the metaphor of wolves to caution His followers against false teachers and prophets. In the Gospel of Matthew, He warns, "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15). This passage highlights the deceptive appearance of such individuals, who outwardly seem harmless but harbor malicious intent. The Wolf as a Metaphor for Wickedness The "Wolf of the Wicked" can be understood as a representation of those who embody wickedness and seek to lead others astray. The Apostle Paul, in his farewell address to the Ephesian elders, echoes this warning: "I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock" (Acts 20:29). Here, Paul emphasizes the imminent threat posed by those who would infiltrate the Christian community to corrupt and destroy it from within. The wolf's predatory nature is further illustrated in the prophetic writings of the Old Testament, where the wolf is often juxtaposed with the lamb, symbolizing peace and innocence. The prophet Isaiah envisions a future time of harmony and divine justice: "The wolf will live with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the goat" (Isaiah 11:6). This imagery serves as a powerful contrast to the current state of wickedness and violence, offering hope for eventual redemption and peace. Spiritual Vigilance Against the Wolf The biblical exhortation to remain vigilant against the "Wolf of the Wicked" is a call to spiritual discernment and steadfastness. Believers are encouraged to be watchful and discerning, recognizing the subtle and often disguised threats posed by those who would lead them away from the truth of the Gospel. The Apostle Peter advises, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). While the imagery here is of a lion, the underlying message of vigilance against spiritual predators remains consistent. In summary, the concept of the "Wolf of the Wicked" serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle faced by believers. It underscores the need for discernment, faithfulness, and reliance on God's truth to withstand the deceptive and destructive forces that seek to undermine the Christian faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 10:16Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the middle of wolves: be you therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 10:3 Library Whether any Demons are Naturally Wicked? The Wicked Man's Life, Funeral, and Epitaph For which Reason, Whatever Else There May be in the Writings of ... Who are Christ's Lambs. Varying Doctrine Concerning the Gods. Of Christ Descending from Heaven to the General Judgment, and of ... The Seventh Season, John Chapter xviii. 1-12. The Tenth Chapter of the Gospel of John. Of the Shepherd, and the ... Peter of Chelcic, 1419-1450. Resources Why do many Christians reject the theory of evolution? | GotQuestions.orgHow should we understand the Lion and the Lamb passage? | GotQuestions.org Why was a father's blessing so highly valued in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Wolf: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Wolf of the Tribe of Benjamin The Wolf: (Taming of) the Change Effected by Conversion The Wolf: Destructive to Flocks of Sheep The Wolf: Particularly Fierce in the Evening when It Seeks Its Prey Wolf of the Enemies of the Righteous Wolf of the Reconciling Power of the Gospel 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) |