Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "a new thing" in the Bible often signifies a divine intervention or a shift in God's dealings with humanity, marking a departure from the past and the introduction of something unprecedented. This concept is primarily found in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, where it is used to describe God's transformative actions in the history of Israel and the world.Isaiah 43:19 One of the most notable references to "a new thing" is found in Isaiah 43:19, where God declares through the prophet Isaiah: "Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert." . This passage is part of a larger section where God reassures Israel of His ongoing commitment and promises to deliver them from Babylonian exile. The "new thing" here symbolizes a miraculous deliverance and restoration, akin to the Exodus from Egypt, but with a fresh and unprecedented manifestation of God's power and grace. Jeremiah 31:22 Another significant mention is in Jeremiah 31:22: "How long will you wander, O faithless daughter? For the LORD has created a new thing on the earth—a woman will shelter a man." . This enigmatic statement is part of a prophecy concerning the restoration of Israel. The "new thing" here is often interpreted as a reversal of traditional roles or expectations, symbolizing a radical change in the social or spiritual order, possibly pointing to the coming of the Messiah or the establishment of a new covenant. Theological Implications The concept of "a new thing" carries profound theological implications. It underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to transcend human expectations and historical patterns. It also highlights the theme of renewal and hope, assuring believers that God is continually at work, bringing about His purposes in ways that may be unexpected or beyond human comprehension. New Testament Fulfillment While the specific phrase "a new thing" is not directly quoted in the New Testament, the idea is echoed in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul writes, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" . This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, where believers experience a spiritual renewal and a new identity in Christ. Revelation 21:5 The culmination of "a new thing" is found in the eschatological vision of Revelation 21:5: "And the One seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.' Then He said, 'Write this down, for these words are faithful and true.'" . This promise of a new creation encompasses the ultimate renewal of heaven and earth, where God will dwell with His people in a restored and perfect world. In summary, "a new thing" in the biblical context signifies God's dynamic and redemptive work in history, offering hope and assurance of His ongoing presence and activity in the world. Subtopics Neophytes: General Scriptures Concerning New Moon: Traffic at Time of, Suspended Select Readings: The New Heaven and the New Earth The New Birth is for the Glory of God The New Birth is of the Mercy of God The New Birth is of the Will of God The New Birth: A Spiritual Resurrection The New Birth: All Saints Partake of The New Birth: Circumcision of the Heart The New Birth: Connected With Adoption The New Birth: Effected by Christ The New Birth: Effected by God The New Birth: Effected by The Holy Spirit The New Birth: Evidenced by Brotherly Love The New Birth: Evidenced by Faith in Christ The New Birth: Evidenced by Righteousness The New Birth: Manner of Effecting--Illustrated The New Birth: Newness of Life The New Birth: None Can Enter Heaven Without The New Birth: Partaking of the Divine Nature The New Birth: Preserves from Satan's Devices The New Birth: Produces Delight in God's Law The New Birth: Produces Hatred of Sin The New Birth: Produces Knowledge of God The New Birth: Produces Likeness to Christ The New Birth: Produces Likeness to God The New Birth: Produces Victory Over the World The New Birth: Putting on the New Man The New Birth: The Corruption of Human Nature Requires The New Birth: The Ignorant Cavil At The New Birth: The Washing of Regeneration The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Ministry of the Gospel The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Resurrection of Christ The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Word of 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) |