The term "The Many" is often used in Scripture to refer to a large group of people, typically in contrast to "the few" or "the one." This concept appears in various contexts throughout the Bible, illustrating themes of collective humanity, sin, redemption, and the people of God.

Collective Humanity and Sin

In the New Testament, "The Many" is frequently used to describe the collective nature of humanity, especially in relation to sin and redemption. Romans 5:19 states, "For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous." Here, "The Many" refers to all of humanity affected by Adam's sin, highlighting the universal impact of the Fall. This passage contrasts Adam's disobedience with Christ's obedience, emphasizing the redemptive work of Jesus for "The Many."

Redemption and Salvation

The concept of "The Many" is also central to the understanding of Christ's atoning sacrifice. In Matthew 20:28 , Jesus declares, "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." This statement underscores the purpose of Christ's mission—to offer salvation to "The Many." Similarly, in Hebrews 9:28 , it is written, "So also Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await Him." These passages affirm the scope of Christ's redemptive work, extending to all who believe.

The People of God

In the Old Testament, "The Many" can also refer to the people of Israel, God's chosen nation. Isaiah 53:11 prophesies about the suffering servant, stating, "After the anguish of His soul, He will see the light of life and be satisfied. By His knowledge My righteous Servant will justify many, and He will bear their iniquities." This prophecy points to the Messiah's role in justifying "The Many," which includes both Israel and, by extension, the Gentiles who come to faith.

Contrast with "The Few"

The Bible often contrasts "The Many" with "The Few," particularly in the context of faithfulness and obedience. In Matthew 7:13-14 , Jesus teaches, "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." Here, "The Many" are those who follow the path of destruction, while "The Few" are those who find the path to eternal life. This contrast serves as a warning and a call to discernment and commitment to the ways of God.

Eschatological Implications

In eschatological contexts, "The Many" can refer to the multitudes who will stand before God in the final judgment. Revelation 7:9 describes a vision of "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." This vision of "The Many" gathered in worship before God highlights the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

In summary, "The Many" in the Bible encompasses themes of collective humanity, the impact of sin, the scope of Christ's redemption, the identity of God's people, and the eschatological hope of salvation. Through these themes, Scripture reveals the breadth of God's love and the depth of His redemptive work for all who believe.