Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "the lot" in the Bible refers to a method used to discern God's will or make decisions, often involving the casting of stones, pebbles, or other objects. This practice is seen throughout the Scriptures and is considered a means by which God reveals His divine choice or guidance in various situations.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the casting of lots is frequently mentioned as a divinely sanctioned method for decision-making. One of the earliest references is found in the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In the Book of Numbers, it is recorded: "The land is to be divided by lot; they will receive their inheritance according to the names of their ancestral tribes" (Numbers 26:55). This method ensured that the distribution was perceived as fair and ordained by God. The use of lots is also evident in the selection of the scapegoat on the Day of Atonement. Leviticus 16:8 states, "He is to cast lots for the two goats—one lot for the LORD and the other for the scapegoat" . This practice highlights the belief that the outcome of the lot was determined by God’s sovereign will. In the account of Jonah, lots were cast by the sailors to determine who was responsible for the storm threatening their ship. "Then the sailors said to each other, 'Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity.' They cast lots, and the lot fell on Jonah" (Jonah 1:7). This incident underscores the belief that God can use lots to reveal hidden truths. New Testament References In the New Testament, the casting of lots is notably used in the selection of Matthias as an apostle to replace Judas Iscariot. Acts 1:26 records, "Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles" . This event demonstrates the early church's reliance on divine guidance through the lot in making significant decisions. Theological Implications The use of lots in the Bible reflects a trust in God's sovereignty and providence. It is seen as a means by which God communicates His will, ensuring that human decisions align with His divine purposes. The practice underscores the belief that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people and that His will can be discerned through seemingly random processes. While the casting of lots is not a common practice in contemporary Christian decision-making, its biblical usage serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereign control over all aspects of life. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 16:33The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 18:18 Isaiah 34:17 Joel 3:3 Library And Judas Iscariot The General Resurrection Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... General Index. On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... On the Clause, and Shall Come in Glory to Judge the Quick and the ... Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. From the Close of the General Conference of 1828 to the Beginning ... From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ... From the Close of the General Conference of 1832 to the Beginning ... Resources Why did Abraham bargain with God in regard to Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah? | GotQuestions.org Does GotQuestions.org receive a lot of hate mail? | GotQuestions.org Lot: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lot: The Son of Haran: Accompanies Terah from Ur of the Chaldees to Haran Lot: The Son of Haran: Commits Incest With his Daughters Lot: The Son of Haran: Disobediently Protests Against Going to the Mountains, and Chooses Zoar Lot: The Son of Haran: His Wife Disobediently Yearns After Sodom, and Becomes a Pillar of Salt Lot: The Son of Haran: Migrates With Abraham to the Land of Canaan Lot: The Son of Haran: Providentially Saved from Destruction in Sodom Lot: The Son of Haran: Returns With Him to Beth-El Lot: The Son of Haran: Separates from Abraham, and Locates in Sodom Lot: The Son of Haran: Taken Captive by Chedorlaomer; Rescued by Abraham The Lot used After the Captivity The Lot used to Fix the Time for the Execution of Condemned Persons The Lot: Achan's Guilt Ascertained By The Lot: General Scriptures Concerning The Lot: Priests and Levites Designated By, for Sanctuary Service The Lot: The Garments of Jesus Divided By The Lot: The Land of Canaan Divided Among Tribes By The Lot: The Scapegoat Chosen By Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
    |