Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of an "errand" often involved a mission or task assigned by a person of authority, typically requiring the messenger to deliver a message or perform a specific duty. The term "errand" is not frequently used in the Bible, but the concept is evident in various narratives where individuals are sent with a purpose.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, errands were often associated with divine missions or tasks given by God to His prophets and servants. For example, in Genesis 24, Abraham sends his servant on an errand to find a wife for his son Isaac. This task was not merely a personal request but carried significant covenantal implications, as it was essential for the continuation of God's promise to Abraham. The servant's journey and success in finding Rebekah highlight the importance of faithfulness and divine guidance in fulfilling an errand. Another notable example is found in 1 Samuel 17, where Jesse sends his son David on an errand to deliver food to his brothers who are in the Israelite army. This seemingly mundane task leads to David's encounter with Goliath, illustrating how God can use ordinary errands to accomplish extraordinary purposes. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of an errand is often linked to the mission of spreading the Gospel. Jesus Himself sent His disciples on various errands, instructing them to preach, heal, and proclaim the Kingdom of God. In Luke 9:1-2 , it is recorded, "Then Jesus called the Twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and power to cure diseases. And He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick." The apostle Paul also frequently sent his companions on errands to deliver letters, provide encouragement, and strengthen the early Christian communities. For instance, in Philippians 2:25 , Paul writes, "But I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my needs." Here, Epaphroditus is entrusted with the task of delivering Paul's letter and serving the Philippian church, demonstrating the trust and responsibility involved in such errands. Theological Implications Errands in the biblical narrative often carry theological significance, reflecting themes of obedience, faithfulness, and divine providence. Those sent on errands are typically expected to act with integrity and diligence, fulfilling their tasks as unto the Lord. The successful completion of an errand often results in the furtherance of God's purposes and the blessing of His people. In a broader sense, the concept of an errand can be seen as a metaphor for the Christian life, where believers are called to fulfill the tasks and missions God assigns to them. As seen in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), Christians are sent into the world to make disciples, baptizing and teaching in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This divine errand underscores the responsibility and privilege of participating in God's redemptive work. Conclusion While the term "errand" may not be explicitly used throughout Scripture, the concept is woven into the fabric of biblical narratives, illustrating the importance of obedience, faithfulness, and divine purpose in the lives of God's people. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A special business entrusted to a messenger; something to be told or done by one sent somewhere for the purpose; often, a verbal message; a commission; as, the servant was sent on an errand; to do an errand. Also, one's purpose in going anywhere.Greek 4882. sunapostello -- to send along with ... send with. From sun and apostello; to despatch (on an errand) in company with -- send with. see GREEK sun. see GREEK apostello. (sunapesteila) -- 1 Occurrence. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4882.htm - 6k 3992. pempo -- to send 29. aggareuo -- to impress, compel Strong's Hebrew 1697. dabar -- speech, word... commandment, X commune(-ication), + concern(-ing), + confer, counsel, + dearth, decree, deed, X disease, due, duty, effect, + eloquent, errand, (evil favoured ... /hebrew/1697.htm - 8k 6737. tsayar -- to act as envoy 6735. tsiyr -- an envoy, messenger Library On an Errand for Jesus. On a Wooing Errand. God on a Wooing Errand. The Last Talk Together. Taken into the Innermost Life. No Compromise The Fourfold Message. The Shepherd-King Nothing but Leaves The Word Success Can of Course be Used in Two Senses. ... Thesaurus Errand (4 Occurrences)... something to be told or done by one sent somewhere for the purpose; often, a verbal message; a commission; as, the servant was sent on an errand; to do an ... /e/errand.htm - 7k Express (13 Occurrences) Titus (15 Occurrences) Erred (14 Occurrences) Err (41 Occurrences) Quarries (4 Occurrences) Onias Reported (104 Occurrences) Envoy (5 Occurrences) Ehud (12 Occurrences) Resources What are the biblical qualifications for apostleship? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was Israel divided into the Southern Kingdom and Northern Kingdom? | GotQuestions.org What are the keys of death (Revelation 1:18)? | GotQuestions.org Errand: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Errand (4 Occurrences)Matthew 28:11 Genesis 24:33 Judges 3:19 2 Kings 9:5 Subtopics Related Terms Guilt-offering (34 Occurrences) Trespass-offering (34 Occurrences) |
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