Topical Encyclopedia
The title "Blessed of the Lord" is a significant designation found within the Holy Scriptures, reflecting the divine favor and grace bestowed upon individuals who are set apart for God's purposes. This title is not merely an acknowledgment of material prosperity or earthly success but is deeply rooted in the spiritual and covenantal relationship between God and His people.
Biblical FoundationThe concept of being "Blessed of the Lord" is woven throughout the biblical narrative, beginning with the patriarchs. In
Genesis 24:31, Laban greets Abraham's servant with the words, "Come in, O blessed of the Lord! Why do you stand outside?" . This greeting acknowledges the servant's association with Abraham, who was blessed by God to be a blessing to all nations (
Genesis 12:2-3).
The Psalms frequently highlight the blessedness of those who walk in the ways of the Lord.
Psalm 1:1-2 declares, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor set foot on the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of mockers, but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night" . Here, blessedness is linked to a life of righteousness and devotion to God's Word.
New Testament ContextIn the New Testament, the Beatitudes pronounced by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (
Matthew 5:3-12) further elucidate the nature of being "Blessed of the Lord." These blessings are pronounced upon those who exhibit qualities such as humility, mercy, purity of heart, and peacemaking. Jesus' teaching underscores that true blessedness is found in the kingdom values that often contrast with worldly standards.
The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, also speaks of the spiritual blessings bestowed upon believers. In
Ephesians 1:3, he writes, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms" . This passage highlights the comprehensive nature of God's blessings, which encompass all aspects of spiritual life and are secured through union with Christ.
Theological SignificanceThe title "Blessed of the Lord" carries profound theological implications. It signifies a state of grace and favor that is initiated by God and is often associated with covenantal promises. Those who are blessed are recipients of God's steadfast love and faithfulness, and they are called to live in a manner that reflects His holiness and righteousness.
Moreover, being "Blessed of the Lord" implies a responsibility to be a conduit of God's blessings to others. As seen in the Abrahamic covenant, the blessed are called to be a blessing, extending God's grace and truth to the world around them.
Practical ApplicationFor believers today, the title "Blessed of the Lord" serves as both an assurance and a calling. It assures them of God's unwavering commitment and favor, while also calling them to live lives that honor Him and reflect His character. This blessedness is not contingent upon external circumstances but is rooted in the believer's relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
In summary, the title "Blessed of the Lord" encapsulates the divine favor, spiritual enrichment, and covenantal relationship that God extends to His people. It is a profound expression of God's grace and a call to live in accordance with His will, serving as a testament to His enduring faithfulness and love.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Genesis 24:31And he said, Come in, you blessed of the LORD; why stand you without? for I have prepared the house, and room for the camels.
Torrey's Topical TextbookGenesis 26:29
That you will do us no hurt, as we have not touched you, and as we have done to you nothing but good, and have sent you away in peace: you are now the blessed of the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
That Worthy Name.
... of that worthy Name are known to God's Saints; but there ... of some of the familiar
titles and names of that ... How these titles of our blessed Lord, what He is and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/that worthy name.htm
"He is the Rock, his Work is Perfect. For all his Ways are ...
... It was enough of old with the saints, "It is the Lord, let him do what ... is that his
majesty is pleased to clothe himself with so many titles and names for us ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon iii he is the.htm
The Lord's Supper
... him. What names and titles in Scripture are given to the sacrament? It ...
perfumes. (2) Love to the saints. This is a love-feast. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/the ten commandments/4 5 the lords supper.htm
Christ the Mediator of the Covenant
... Christ is the sum and quintessence of the gospel; the wonder of angels; the joy
and triumph of saints. ... There are several names and titles in Scripture ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/2 christ the mediator of.htm
Then Returning to the Words of Peter, "God Made Him Lord and ...
... of Him Who had been before the eyes of men, since the saints agree with ... n. 6): but
he here probably means no more than that names or titles which properly ...
/.../gregory/gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/section 4 then returning to.htm
The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints
... everything you like; but know that those titles will not ... thick jungle of India shall
see the saints of God ... t expect kings to put down their names for trifles. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the kingly priesthood of the.htm
Wisdom and Revelation.
... that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory
of His inheritance in the saints, and what ... The names and titles of God ...
/.../thomas/the prayers of st paul/vii wisdom and revelation.htm
Vanity of Human Glory.
... has been the happiness of many saints who have ... and skill, and perseverance, with
its proud titles of honour ... Your names will be written in Heaven, with those of ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol viii/sermon xii vanity of human.htm
Christ's Exaltation
... Thus he is exalted in his titles of honour ... glory in heaven, he is not unmindful of
his saints on earth ... Our high priest has all the names and wants of his people ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/7 christs exaltation.htm
Hymns and Spiritual Songs
... 1. 9 10. Hymn 1:138. Saints in the hands of Christ, John 10. 28 29. ... Hymn 1:147. The
names and titles of Christ, from several scriptures. Hymn 1:148. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/hymns and spiritual songs/
Resources
What is the name of God? | GotQuestions.orgIs it biblical to call the wife of a pastor, elder, or bishop the First Lady of the church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of “Everlasting Father” in Isaiah 9:6? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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