Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Role:Emissaries, in the biblical context, refer to individuals who are sent on a mission or as representatives, often carrying messages or performing tasks on behalf of a higher authority. The term is closely related to apostles, prophets, and messengers, who serve as intermediaries between God and His people or between leaders and their subjects. Old Testament Context: In the Old Testament, emissaries often appear as messengers sent by kings or leaders to convey messages, negotiate treaties, or deliver declarations. For example, in 2 Samuel 10:2-3, King David sends emissaries to express sympathy to Hanun, the son of Nahash, after his father's death. However, these emissaries are mistreated, leading to conflict. This incident highlights the importance and potential risks associated with the role of emissaries. Prophets as Emissaries: Prophets in the Old Testament can also be seen as emissaries of God. They are chosen to deliver God's messages to the people of Israel, calling them to repentance and obedience. For instance, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel serve as divine emissaries, communicating God's will and warnings to the nation. In Isaiah 6:8 , Isaiah responds to God's call, saying, "Here am I. Send me!" This illustrates the prophet's role as an emissary willing to carry God's message. New Testament Context: In the New Testament, the concept of emissaries is most prominently embodied in the apostles. The Greek word "apostolos" means "one who is sent," and the apostles are chosen by Jesus Christ to spread the Gospel and establish the early Church. In John 20:21 , Jesus says to His disciples, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you." This commissioning underscores their role as emissaries of Christ. Paul as an Emissary: The Apostle Paul is a notable example of an emissary in the New Testament. Formerly a persecutor of Christians, Paul is transformed by an encounter with the risen Christ and becomes a dedicated emissary to the Gentiles. In Acts 9:15 , the Lord tells Ananias about Paul, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel." Paul's missionary journeys and epistles are a testament to his role as an emissary spreading the Gospel. Characteristics of Emissaries: Biblical emissaries are characterized by their obedience, faithfulness, and dedication to their mission. They often face challenges, opposition, and persecution but remain committed to their calling. Emissaries are also marked by their authority, as they carry the message and power of the one who sent them. In Matthew 10:40 , Jesus tells His disciples, "Whoever receives you receives Me, and whoever receives Me receives the One who sent Me," highlighting the authority vested in His emissaries. Conclusion: Emissaries play a crucial role in the biblical narrative, serving as conduits for divine and royal messages. Whether as prophets, apostles, or messengers, they are integral to the unfolding of God's plan and the communication of His will to humanity. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Plural of Emissary.Library The Invasion of Scythia. Chapter vi. Jesus Led Back from the Court of Herod to that of Pilate. Early History of American Lutheranism. The Teaching of Matthew 13 Proves that no Era of Millennial ... Introduction Guelf and Ghibelline. (ii) Prayer and vigilance Motives to the Oversight of the Flock The Author to the Reader. Thesaurus Emissaries (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Plural of Emissary. Multi-Version Concordance Emissaries (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 15:10 And Absalom ... /e/emissaries.htm - 6k Emission (7 Occurrences) Gebal (3 Occurrences) Reigns (22 Occurrences) Emins (1 Occurrence) Antiochians Second (2060 Occurrences) Joshua (211 Occurrences) Corinthians (3 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of the Babylonian Empire in biblical history? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Gad? | GotQuestions.org What happened at the Council of Florence? | GotQuestions.org Emissaries: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Emissaries (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 15:10 Subtopics Related Terms |