Dictionary of Bible Themes  »  5000 Humanity  »  5760 Human attitudes and behaviour  »  5923 public opinion

The concepts and views held by the majority of the population. Scripture urges personal, independent thinking, based on God's word, rather than adherence to popular beliefs.

God's people should not be concerned about public opinion

Exodus 23:2 See also Job 31:33-34; Ecclesiastes 7:21-22

Examples of the impact of public opinion

1 Samuel 14:45 Public opinion saved Jonathan's life; 1 Samuel 15:24 Public opinion led to Saul losing his kingdom; Matthew 27:15-26 Public opinion led to Jesus Christ being crucified; Acts 12:3 Public opinion led to Peter being imprisoned.

Public opinion is often contrary to divine standards

Haggai 1:2-11 See also Numbers 13:21-14:10; Deuteronomy 1:19-40; 1 Samuel 8:4-9; 1 Kings 18:21; Jeremiah 2:31-35; Jeremiah 26:7-16

Public opinion is sometimes in accord with divine standards

Deuteronomy 5:28-29 See also Joshua 24:19-24

Public opinion of Jesus Christ was divided

Concerning his identity

Matthew 16:13-17 pp Mark 8:27-29 pp Luke 9:18-20 See also John 7:40-43

Concerning his teaching and ministry

Luke 12:51; John 7:12,43; John 9:16; John 10:19

See also

2369  Christ, responses to
5279  crowds
5919  popularity