In the biblical narrative, "great men" often refers to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional faith, leadership, or influence in the unfolding of God's plan. These figures are frequently characterized by their obedience to God, their moral integrity, and their ability to lead others in righteousness.

One of the quintessential examples of a great man in the Bible is Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelites. His faith and obedience to God's call are highlighted in Genesis 12:1-3, where God promises to make him a great nation. Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac (Genesis 22) further exemplifies his unwavering faith.

Moses is another prominent figure, known for leading the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. His leadership and close relationship with God are evident in Exodus 33:11, where it is said, "The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend." Moses' role in receiving and delivering the Law at Mount Sinai underscores his significance in biblical history.

King David, described as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), is celebrated for his military prowess, poetic contributions to the Psalms, and his central role in establishing Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel. Despite his moral failings, David's repentance and devotion to God are key aspects of his greatness.

The New Testament also highlights great men, such as the Apostle Paul, whose missionary journeys and epistles significantly shaped early Christianity. His transformation from persecutor to apostle (Acts 9) and his theological insights continue to influence Christian thought.

Close Friends

The Bible places a high value on friendship, often illustrating it as a source of strength, support, and spiritual growth. One of the most notable examples of close friendship is that of David and Jonathan. Despite the political tension between David and Jonathan's father, King Saul, their friendship is marked by loyalty and selflessness. In 1 Samuel 18:1, it is said, "Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself."

Another significant friendship is that of Ruth and Naomi. Ruth's loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, is a profound testament to the strength of their bond. Ruth 1:16-17 records Ruth's commitment: "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God."

In the New Testament, Jesus' relationship with His disciples, particularly Peter, James, and John, reflects a deep bond of friendship. Jesus refers to His disciples as friends in John 15:15, saying, "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends."

The friendship between Paul and Timothy is another example, with Paul referring to Timothy as his "true son in the faith" (1 Timothy 1:2). Their relationship is characterized by mentorship, mutual respect, and shared mission.

Priests

Priests in the Bible hold a significant role as mediators between God and His people. The priesthood is established in the Old Testament with Aaron, the brother of Moses, serving as the first high priest. The Levitical priesthood, named after the tribe of Levi, is responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), and teaching the Law to the Israelites.

The Book of Leviticus outlines the duties and responsibilities of the priests, emphasizing holiness and ritual purity. Leviticus 10:10-11 instructs the priests to "distinguish between the holy and the common, between the unclean and the clean, and to teach the Israelites all the statutes that the LORD has given them through Moses."

In the New Testament, the concept of priesthood is transformed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 4:14-16 presents Jesus as the great high priest who sympathizes with human weaknesses and offers direct access to God. This new priesthood is not based on lineage but on the order of Melchizedek, as explained in Hebrews 7.

The priesthood of all believers is a key New Testament teaching, as seen in 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light." This concept emphasizes the direct relationship each believer has with God through Christ, eliminating the need for an earthly mediator.