Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the concept of "old age" is often associated with wisdom, experience, and the fulfillment of God's promises. The phrase "well stricken in years" is used to describe individuals who have reached an advanced age, often implying a life marked by significant experiences and divine encounters. This entry explores the biblical understanding of old age, its implications, and the examples of key figures who were described as "well stricken in years."Biblical Context and Meaning The phrase "well stricken in years" appears in several passages throughout the Bible, often highlighting the advanced age of patriarchs and other significant figures. In the Berean Standard Bible, Genesis 18:11 describes Abraham and Sarah: "And Abraham and Sarah were already old and well along in years." This description sets the stage for the miraculous birth of Isaac, emphasizing that God's promises transcend human limitations, including age. Similarly, in Luke 1:7, Zechariah and Elizabeth are described as "well along in years," yet they are chosen to be the parents of John the Baptist. This narrative underscores the theme that God can use individuals regardless of their age to fulfill His divine purposes. Significance of Old Age in Scripture 1. Wisdom and Experience: Old age is often associated with wisdom and a deep understanding of life. Job 12:12 states, "Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life." The accumulation of years is seen as an opportunity to gain insight and impart knowledge to younger generations. 2. Fulfillment of Promises: The lives of those described as "well stricken in years" often illustrate the fulfillment of God's promises. Abraham and Sarah's story is a testament to God's faithfulness, as they become the ancestors of a great nation despite their advanced age. 3. Respect and Honor: The Bible instructs believers to honor the elderly. Leviticus 19:32 commands, "You are to rise in the presence of the elderly, honor the aged, and fear your God. I am the LORD." This respect is rooted in the recognition of the life experiences and contributions of older individuals. 4. Continued Service: Old age does not preclude individuals from serving God. Moses, at the age of 80, was called to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 7:7). His story exemplifies that one's usefulness in God's plan is not limited by age. Examples of Biblical Figures - Abraham and Sarah: As mentioned, they were well advanced in years when Isaac was born, demonstrating that God's timing often defies human expectations. - Zechariah and Elizabeth: Their story in the New Testament highlights the joy and purpose that can come in later years, as they become parents to John the Baptist. - Simeon and Anna: In Luke 2, both Simeon and Anna are described as elderly individuals who recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Their advanced age and spiritual insight underscore the theme of divine revelation and fulfillment. Conclusion In the biblical worldview, old age is a season of life that carries with it the potential for continued growth, service, and fulfillment of God's promises. Those described as "well stricken in years" serve as reminders that age is not a barrier to God's work. Instead, it is often a testament to His enduring faithfulness and the wisdom that comes from a life lived in His presence. The Bible encourages respect and honor for the elderly, recognizing their invaluable role in the community of faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 1:7And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Annunciation to Zacharias of the Birth of John the Baptist. The Voice in the Wilderness A Statement of the Manner in which Luke's Procedure is Proved to ... Jesus Drives Out the Money-Changers. Barzillai Chapter xxiv The Gentle Boy The Ancestral Home On the Catholic Faith How Absalom Murdered Amnon, who had Forced his Own Sister; and How ... Resources What does 2 Peter 3:8 mean when it says a thousand years are a day? | GotQuestions.orgHow can the light of stars billions of light years away from the earth have reached us if the earth is only thousands of years old? | GotQuestions.org How does God restore the years that the locusts have eaten (Joel 2:25)? | GotQuestions.org Years: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Years in Prophetic Computation, Days Reckoned As Years: (Acceptable) of the Time of the Gospel Years: (Being Full of) of Old Age Years: (Of Recompences) Judgments Years: (Of the Redeemed) Redemption by Christ Years: (Of the Right Hand of the Most High) Prosperity Years: (Of Visitation) Severe Judgments Years: (Well Stricken In) Old Age Years: Commencement of, Changed After the Exodus Years: Early Computation of Time By Years: Length of, During the Patriarchal Age Years: The Sun and Moon Appointed to Mark Out Related Terms Nebuchadrezzar (31 Occurrences) Commandments (181 Occurrences) |
    |