In the biblical narrative, the concept of "God's Instrument" refers to individuals, nations, or objects that God uses to accomplish His divine purposes. Throughout Scripture, God demonstrates His sovereignty by employing various means to fulfill His will, often choosing unexpected or humble instruments to manifest His power and glory.

Old Testament Examples

1. Moses: One of the most prominent examples of God's instrument is Moses. Despite his initial reluctance and self-doubt, Moses was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. In Exodus 3:10, God commands Moses, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Moses' life and leadership exemplify how God equips and empowers His chosen instruments to achieve His purposes.

2. David: The shepherd boy who became king, David, is another significant instrument of God. Anointed by the prophet Samuel, David was used by God to establish the kingdom of Israel and to defeat its enemies. In 1 Samuel 16:12-13, God instructs Samuel to anoint David, saying, "Rise and anoint him, for he is the one." David's life illustrates how God often chooses those who are overlooked by the world to accomplish great things.

3. Cyrus: The Persian king Cyrus is an example of a non-Israelite being used as God's instrument. In Isaiah 45:1, God refers to Cyrus as His "anointed," declaring that he will subdue nations and release the Israelites from captivity. This demonstrates God's ability to use even foreign rulers to fulfill His covenant promises.

New Testament Examples

1. Mary: The mother of Jesus, Mary, is a profound example of God's instrument in the New Testament. Chosen to bear the Messiah, Mary's willing submission to God's plan is evident in Luke 1:38, where she responds to the angel Gabriel, "I am the Lord’s servant. May it happen to me according to your word." Her role in the incarnation of Christ highlights the importance of obedience and faith in being used by God.

2. The Apostles: The apostles, particularly Peter and Paul, were instrumental in the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of the early Church. In Acts 9:15, God 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." The apostles' missionary work and writings continue to impact Christianity today.

3. The Church: Collectively, the Church is described as God's instrument for proclaiming the Gospel and advancing His kingdom on earth. In Ephesians 3:10, Paul writes, "His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms." The Church serves as the body of Christ, tasked with living out and spreading His teachings.

Objects as Instruments

In addition to people, God also uses objects as instruments to achieve His purposes. For example, the Ark of the Covenant served as a symbol of God's presence and a tool for His guidance and protection (Exodus 25:22). Similarly, the staff of Moses was used to perform miracles and demonstrate God's power (Exodus 4:17).

Conclusion

The concept of God's instrument underscores the biblical theme of divine sovereignty and human agency. Whether through individuals, nations, or objects, God orchestrates His plans with precision and purpose, often choosing the least likely candidates to reveal His strength and wisdom.