In the biblical context, the term "the few people" often refers to the remnant or a small group of individuals who remain faithful to God amidst widespread unfaithfulness or adversity. This concept is woven throughout the Scriptures, highlighting God's preservation of a faithful minority who uphold His commandments and maintain their devotion to Him.

Old Testament References

1. Noah and His Family: One of the earliest examples of "the few people" is found in the account of Noah. In a world filled with corruption and violence, Noah and his family were the few who found favor in the eyes of the Lord. Genesis 6:8-9 states, "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation; Noah walked with God." God preserved Noah and his family through the flood, demonstrating His commitment to the faithful few.

2. The Remnant of Israel: Throughout the history of Israel, God consistently preserved a remnant of His people. In 1 Kings 19:18 , God reassures Elijah, saying, "Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him." This remnant serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and His desire to maintain a people devoted to Him.

3. The Return from Exile: After the Babylonian exile, a remnant of Israelites returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and restore the city. Ezra 9:8 reflects on this, stating, "But now, for a brief moment, the LORD our God has been gracious in leaving us a remnant and giving us a firm place in His sanctuary, and so our God gives light to our eyes and relief in our bondage."

New Testament References

1. The Narrow Path: Jesus speaks of the few who find the path to life in Matthew 7:13-14 : "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." This passage underscores the idea that true discipleship and faithfulness to God are not the paths chosen by the majority.

2. The Elect: In the New Testament, the concept of "the few" is also associated with the elect, those chosen by God for salvation. In Matthew 22:14 , Jesus states, "For many are called, but few are chosen." This highlights the distinction between those who hear the call of the Gospel and those who respond in faith and obedience.

3. The Faithful Church: The letters to the seven churches in Revelation include commendations for the faithful few within those congregations. Revelation 3:4 says, "But you do have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments, and because they are worthy, they will walk with Me in white."

Theological Significance

The concept of "the few people" serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to preserve a faithful remnant even in the midst of widespread apostasy or judgment. It emphasizes the importance of personal faithfulness and the reality that true devotion to God often requires standing apart from the majority. This theme encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting that God honors and preserves those who are committed to His ways.