Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Significance: In biblical literature, the concept of door-opening carries both literal and metaphorical significance. Doors serve as physical barriers that can be opened or closed, symbolizing access, opportunity, and transition. In a spiritual context, door-opening often represents divine intervention, the granting of spiritual insight, or the invitation to enter into a deeper relationship with God. Old Testament References: In the Old Testament, doors are frequently mentioned in the context of homes, cities, and the temple. For instance, the Passover narrative in Exodus 12:7 describes the Israelites marking their doorposts with lamb's blood, signifying protection and deliverance: "They are to take some of the blood and put it on the two side posts and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs." The imagery of door-opening is also present in prophetic literature. In Isaiah 22:22, the authority given to Eliakim is symbolized by the key to the house of David: "I will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David; what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open." This passage highlights the divine authority to open and close doors, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. New Testament References: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ often uses the metaphor of doors to convey spiritual truths. In John 10:9, Jesus declares, "I am the door. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture." Here, Jesus presents Himself as the gateway to salvation and spiritual nourishment. The Book of Revelation also employs the imagery of door-opening. In Revelation 3:8, the risen Christ speaks to the church in Philadelphia: "I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut." This open door symbolizes opportunities for ministry and the assurance of God's favor. Spiritual Implications: Door-opening in the Bible often signifies God's invitation to enter into His presence or to embark on a new phase of spiritual growth. It can also represent the opportunities God provides for service and witness. The act of opening a door can be seen as a response to God's call, requiring faith and obedience. In personal spiritual life, believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in discerning which doors He is opening or closing. Prayer and discernment are essential in understanding God's will and timing, as illustrated in Colossians 4:3, where Paul requests prayer for open doors for the message of the gospel: "And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains." Conclusion: The theme of door-opening in the Bible underscores the dynamic relationship between God and His people. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty, His provision of opportunities, and the importance of responding to His call with faith and readiness. Library The Glory and Honor that Jesus Has Won Acts XXII The Fall of Solomon From the Arrival of the First Missionaries in 1769 to the First ... Ancestors of the Blessed virgin The Monks. The Valleys --Experiences of Suffering and Sacrifice Answers to Prayer Cardinal Felix Bonpre Sat Alone in the Largest and Loneliest Room ... Thesaurus Door-opening (2 Occurrences)Door-opening. Door-keepers, Door-opening. Door-pillars . Multi-Version Concordance Door-opening (2 Occurrences). Ezekiel ... /d/door-opening.htm - 7k Uprights (20 Occurrences) Sidewalls (4 Occurrences) Side-walls (2 Occurrences) Width (58 Occurrences) Door-keepers (34 Occurrences) Door-pillars (2 Occurrences) Resources What did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the keys of the kingdom? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible mean by binding and loosing? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Door-opening (2 Occurrences)Ezekiel 41:2 Ezekiel 41:3 Subtopics Related Terms |