Topical Encyclopedia
Throughout the biblical narrative, God consistently demonstrates His sovereign ability to use those whom society has rejected or deemed unworthy. This theme underscores the divine principle that God's purposes are not hindered by human limitations or societal norms. Instead, He often chooses the marginalized, the outcast, and the overlooked to fulfill His divine plans, thereby revealing His power and grace.
Old Testament Examples1.
Moses: Initially rejected by his own people and exiled to the desert after killing an Egyptian (
Exodus 2:11-15), Moses was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. Despite his initial reluctance and self-doubt, God empowered Moses to confront Pharaoh and perform miraculous signs, ultimately leading to the Exodus. As God assured him, "I will be with you" (
Exodus 3:12).
2.
David: The youngest of Jesse's sons and overlooked by his own family, David was chosen by God to be king over Israel. When Samuel came to anoint the next king, David was not even considered initially (
1 Samuel 16:10-11). Yet, God saw what others did not, declaring, "The LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart" (
1 Samuel 16:7).
3.
Gideon: From the weakest clan in Manasseh and the least in his family, Gideon was called by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites. Despite his initial fear and doubt, God assured him, "Surely I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites as one man" (
Judges 6:16). Gideon's victory with a small army of 300 men demonstrated God's power through human weakness.
New Testament Examples1.
The Samaritan Woman: In
John 4, Jesus engages with a Samaritan woman at the well, a person rejected by Jewish society due to her ethnicity and personal history. Through her encounter with Jesus, she becomes a witness to her community, leading many to believe in Him. Her account illustrates how Jesus breaks social barriers and uses the marginalized to spread the Gospel.
2.
Matthew (Levi): A tax collector despised by his fellow Jews, Matthew was called by Jesus to be one of His disciples (
Matthew 9:9). Despite his social rejection, Matthew became an apostle and the author of the Gospel bearing his name, contributing significantly to the New Testament.
3.
Paul (Saul of Tarsus): Initially a persecutor of Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic conversion and became one of the most influential apostles. Despite his past and the rejection he faced from both Jews and Christians, God used Paul to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles and author much of the New Testament. As Paul himself wrote, "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain" (
1 Corinthians 15:10).
Theological ImplicationsThe recurring theme of God using the rejected highlights several key theological truths. First, it emphasizes God's sovereignty and His ability to accomplish His purposes through unexpected means. Second, it reveals God's grace and mercy, as He chooses not based on human merit but on His divine will. Finally, it serves as a reminder that God's power is made perfect in weakness (
2 Corinthians 12:9), encouraging believers to trust in His strength rather than their own abilities.
Practical ApplicationsFor believers today, the biblical accounts of God using the rejected offer profound encouragement and challenge. They remind Christians that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and that He can use anyone, regardless of their past or societal status, for His glory. This truth calls for humility, faith, and a willingness to be used by God in whatever capacity He chooses. It also challenges the church to embrace and uplift those whom society may overlook, recognizing the potential for God's work in every individual.