In the biblical narrative, specific instructions are often given by God to individuals or groups to guide them in fulfilling His divine purposes. These instructions can be found throughout both the Old and New Testaments and serve as a testament to God's direct involvement in the lives of His people. They are characterized by their clarity, purpose, and the expectation of obedience.

Old Testament Examples

1. Noah and the Ark: One of the earliest examples of specific instructions is found in the account of Noah. God provided detailed directions for the construction of the ark, specifying its dimensions, materials, and design. "Make for yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark and coat it with pitch inside and out" (Genesis 6:14). These instructions were crucial for the preservation of Noah's family and the animal species during the flood.

2. Moses and the Tabernacle: In Exodus, God gives Moses precise instructions for building the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for worship. These instructions include the materials to be used, the dimensions of the structure, and the design of the furnishings. "According to all that I show you—the pattern of the tabernacle and the pattern of all its furnishings—you are to construct it exactly so" (Exodus 25:9). The Tabernacle served as a focal point for the Israelites' worship and a symbol of God's presence among them.

3. Joshua and the Conquest of Jericho: God provided Joshua with specific military instructions for the conquest of Jericho. The Israelites were to march around the city once a day for six days and seven times on the seventh day, followed by the blowing of trumpets. "On the seventh day, you shall march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets" (Joshua 6:4). This unconventional strategy led to the miraculous fall of Jericho's walls.

New Testament Examples

1. Jesus and the Disciples: Jesus often gave specific instructions to His disciples, both in their personal conduct and in their ministry. For instance, when sending out the twelve apostles, He instructed them on what to take and how to conduct themselves. "Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts" (Mark 6:8). These instructions emphasized reliance on God and the urgency of their mission.

2. The Great Commission: Before His ascension, Jesus gave the disciples the Great Commission, a clear directive to spread the Gospel. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19). This command underscores the global scope of the Christian mission and the importance of teaching and baptizing new believers.

3. Paul's Instructions to the Churches: The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, often provided specific instructions to the early Christian communities regarding doctrine, conduct, and church organization. For example, in his letter to the Corinthians, he addresses issues of worship and spiritual gifts. "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner" (1 Corinthians 14:40). These instructions were intended to promote unity and edification within the church.

Theological Significance

Specific instructions in the Bible highlight the importance of obedience to God's will. They demonstrate that God is a God of order and purpose, who communicates clearly with His people. These instructions often come with promises of blessing for obedience and consequences for disobedience, reflecting the covenantal relationship between God and His people. Through these directives, believers are reminded of the necessity of faithfulness and the assurance that God equips and guides those He calls.