The Event of Closing the House
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The phrase "Closing the House" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept can be related to various biblical themes and events that involve the closing or sealing of a place or a household. This entry explores the biblical significance of such events, drawing from scriptural narratives and principles.

Biblical Context and Themes

1. Noah's Ark: One of the most prominent biblical events involving the closing of a house is the account of Noah's Ark. In Genesis 7:16 , it is written, "So they entered, male and female of every creature, just as God had commanded Noah. Then the LORD shut him in." Here, the closing of the ark by God signifies divine protection and judgment. The sealing of the ark ensured the safety of Noah and his family while the floodwaters brought judgment upon the earth.

2. Passover in Egypt: Another significant event is the Passover, where the Israelites were instructed to stay inside their houses, marked with the blood of the lamb, to be spared from the plague of the firstborn. Exodus 12:22-23 states, "Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it in the blood in the basin, and apply some of the blood to the top and sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out the door of his house until morning. When the LORD passes through to strike down the Egyptians, He will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway; He will not allow the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down." The closing of the house here symbolizes obedience and divine protection.

3. The Parable of the Ten Virgins: In the New Testament, the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 illustrates the importance of readiness for the coming of the bridegroom. The door being shut to the foolish virgins who were unprepared serves as a metaphor for the finality of judgment and the necessity of spiritual vigilance. Matthew 25:10 states, "But while they were on their way to buy it, the bridegroom arrived. Those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut."

4. The Upper Room: After the resurrection of Jesus, the disciples gathered in a closed room for fear of the Jews. John 20:19 recounts, "It was the first day of the week, and that evening, while the disciples were together with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them. 'Peace be with you,' He said to them." The closed room becomes a place of revelation and peace as Jesus appears to His disciples, transforming their fear into faith.

Symbolic Interpretations

· Divine Protection and Judgment: The closing of a house often symbolizes God's protection over His people while simultaneously serving as a boundary against judgment. This dual theme is evident in the accounts of Noah and the Passover.

· Readiness and Exclusion: The parable of the ten virgins highlights the importance of spiritual preparedness. The closed door signifies the finality of opportunity and the consequences of being unprepared for the Lord's return.

· Fear and Revelation: The closed room where the disciples gathered after Jesus' resurrection represents a place of fear transformed into a space of divine revelation and peace. It underscores the presence of Christ even in times of uncertainty and fear.

Conclusion

While the specific phrase "Closing the House" is not found in the Bible, the concept is richly illustrated through various narratives and teachings. These events emphasize themes of divine protection, judgment, readiness, and revelation, offering profound insights into the nature of God's interaction with His people.
The Event of Cleansing the Temple
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