Topical Encyclopedia Overhearing, in the context of the Bible, refers to the act of hearing something unintentionally or without the speaker's awareness. This concept appears in various narratives and teachings throughout Scripture, often revealing truths, intentions, or divine messages that impact the course of events or the understanding of God's will.Biblical Instances of Overhearing 1. Sarah Overhears the Promise: In Genesis 18:10-15, Sarah overhears the Lord's promise to Abraham that she will bear a son. Her reaction of laughter, due to her old age, leads to a direct encounter with the Lord, who questions her disbelief. This incident highlights the theme of divine promise and human skepticism. The Lord says, "Is anything too difficult for the LORD?" (Genesis 18:14), emphasizing His power to fulfill His promises despite human doubt. 2. David and Goliath: In 1 Samuel 17:23-27, David overhears the taunts of Goliath and the fear of the Israelite soldiers. This overhearing stirs David's spirit and leads him to inquire about the reward for defeating the Philistine. David's response to what he overhears demonstrates his faith and courage, setting the stage for his victory over Goliath and his rise as a leader in Israel. 3. Jesus and the Pharisees: In Mark 2:6-8, Jesus overhears the thoughts of the Pharisees questioning His authority to forgive sins. Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, addresses their doubts directly, saying, "Why are you thinking these things in your hearts?" (Mark 2:8). This instance underscores Jesus' divine insight and authority, as well as His ability to address and correct misunderstandings about His mission. 4. The Samaritan Woman: In John 4:27-30, the disciples return to find Jesus speaking with the Samaritan woman. Although they do not overhear the conversation, their surprise at seeing Jesus engage with her reflects cultural norms and prejudices. The woman's testimony to the townspeople, based on what she heard from Jesus, leads many to believe in Him, illustrating the transformative power of hearing and sharing the Word. Theological Implications Overhearing in the Bible often serves as a catalyst for revelation and action. It can lead to a deeper understanding of God's character, as seen in Sarah's encounter with the Lord, or prompt decisive action, as in David's response to Goliath. In the New Testament, overhearing reveals Jesus' divine nature and His mission to challenge and transform societal norms. From a theological perspective, overhearing can be seen as a means by which God communicates His will and purposes, often in unexpected ways. It serves as a reminder of God's omnipresence and His ability to use all circumstances to reveal His truth and further His kingdom. Practical Application For believers, the concept of overhearing encourages attentiveness to God's voice in everyday situations. It challenges individuals to be open to divine guidance and to respond faithfully to what they perceive, even when it comes through indirect or unexpected means. Overhearing also calls for discernment, as believers seek to align their actions with God's revealed will and purposes. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Overhear.Greek 3878. parakouo -- to overhear, to hear amiss, to take no heed ... Word Origin from para and akouo Definition to overhear, to hear amiss, to take no heed NASB Word Usage overhearing (1), refuses to listen (2). neglect to hear. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3878.htm - 7k Library A Clean Tongue. Jesus Heals a Little Girl Jesus' Conditions of Friendship. The Life of Mr. Alexander Peden. Events During the War Life and Conduct of the Holy Women, Xanthippe, Polyxena, and ... The Healing of the Woman - Christ's Personal Appearance - the ... The Pilgrim's Progress Thesaurus Overhearing (1 Occurrence)...Overhearing (1 Occurrence). Mark 5:36 But Jesus, overhearing the words, said to the Warden, "Do not be afraid; only have faith." (WEY NAS). ... /o/overhearing.htm - 6k Overheard (3 Occurrences) Over-high (3 Occurrences) Warden (8 Occurrences) Faith (769 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of talitha cumi? | GotQuestions.orgOverhearing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Overhearing (1 Occurrence)Mark 5:36 Subtopics Related Terms |