Topical Encyclopedia The term "Holy Mountain" is a significant title and name for the Church, drawing from rich biblical imagery and theological symbolism. This designation is rooted in the Old Testament and carries forward into the New Testament understanding of the Church as the spiritual Zion, the dwelling place of God among His people.Biblical Foundation The concept of the "Holy Mountain" originates in the Old Testament, where it is often associated with Mount Zion, the site of the Temple in Jerusalem. In Psalm 48:1-2 , the psalmist declares, "Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, His holy mountain. Beautiful in loftiness, the joy of all the earth, like the peaks of Zaphon is Mount Zion, the city of the great King." Here, Mount Zion is depicted as the epicenter of God's presence and the focal point of His divine rule. Isaiah 2:2-3 further expands on this imagery: "In the last days the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it. And many peoples will come and say, 'Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us His ways so that we may walk in His paths.' For the law will go forth from Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem." This prophetic vision anticipates a time when God's presence and authority will be universally recognized, with the "Holy Mountain" serving as the spiritual center for all nations. Theological Significance In the New Testament, the Church is often understood as the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises concerning Zion and the "Holy Mountain." Hebrews 12:22-23 states, "Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels in joyful assembly, to the congregation of the firstborn, enrolled in heaven." This passage identifies the Church with the heavenly Zion, emphasizing its role as the spiritual assembly of God's people. The "Holy Mountain" thus symbolizes the Church's identity as the dwelling place of God, where His presence is manifest among His people. It represents the Church's calling to be a beacon of holiness and a witness to the nations, drawing all people to the knowledge and worship of the one true God. Practical Implications As the "Holy Mountain," the Church is called to embody the holiness and righteousness of God in the world. This involves living out the teachings of Christ and serving as a light to the nations, inviting others to experience the transformative power of the Gospel. The Church, as the "Holy Mountain," is tasked with upholding the truth of God's Word and fostering a community that reflects His love and justice. In summary, the title "Holy Mountain" encapsulates the Church's role as the spiritual Zion, the place where God's presence dwells and His purposes are fulfilled. It is a powerful reminder of the Church's mission to be a holy and set-apart people, drawing others to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Zechariah 8:3Thus said the LORD; I am returned to Zion, and will dwell in the middle of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Revelation and Career of the Anti-Christ. The Papacy not the Antichrist The Letter of the Church of Rome Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Impiety of Attributing a visible Form to God. --The Setting up of ... The Psalm LXVIII. The Fifth Theological Oration. Hugh the Builder Resources What are the different names and titles of the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the names and titles of the Holy Spirit? | GotQuestions.org What are the different names and titles of Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |