Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "children in whom is no faith" is a poignant biblical description found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Song of Moses. This expression is used to characterize a generation that has turned away from God, embodying traits of rebellion, disobedience, and spiritual infidelity. The phrase is found in Deuteronomy 32:20, where God speaks through Moses, lamenting the faithlessness of the Israelites: "I will hide My face from them," He said, "I will see what their end will be, for they are a perverse generation—children in whom there is no faith" .Context and Meaning In the context of Deuteronomy 32, Moses delivers a song to the Israelites as a witness against them. This song serves as both a reminder of God's past faithfulness and a prophetic warning of the consequences of Israel's future unfaithfulness. The term "children in whom is no faith" underscores the spiritual condition of the people who, despite witnessing God's mighty works and receiving His covenant, fail to trust and obey Him. The phrase highlights a deep-seated issue of unbelief and moral corruption. It reflects a relational breach between God and His people, where the expected response of faith and obedience is replaced by doubt and rebellion. This lack of faith is not merely an intellectual disbelief but a willful turning away from God's commandments and a refusal to live according to His statutes. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the description of the wicked as "children in whom is no faith" serves as a sobering reminder of the human propensity to stray from God. It illustrates the consequences of spiritual apostasy and the importance of maintaining a covenant relationship with the Lord. The faithlessness of the Israelites is contrasted with God's unwavering faithfulness, emphasizing His righteousness and justice. This phrase also serves as a warning to future generations. It calls believers to examine their own faith and commitment to God, urging them to remain steadfast and faithful. The concept of faith is central to the biblical narrative, and its absence is depicted as a grave spiritual deficiency. Biblical Parallels and Applications The theme of faithlessness is echoed throughout Scripture, where the wicked are often described in terms of their lack of trust in God. In the New Testament, Jesus frequently rebukes the faithlessness of the people, as seen in His lament over Jerusalem: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!" (Matthew 23:37). The call to faith is a recurring exhortation for believers. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him" . This underscores the necessity of faith as the foundation of a righteous relationship with God. In practical terms, the warning against being "children in whom is no faith" encourages believers to cultivate a robust and active faith, characterized by trust, obedience, and a deep reliance on God's promises. It serves as a call to spiritual vigilance, urging the faithful to guard against the temptations and distractions that lead to unbelief. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 32:20And he said, I will hide my face from them, I will see what their end shall be: for they are a very fraudulent generation, children in whom is no faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library "My Little Children, These Things Write I unto You, that Ye Sin ... They Shall be Called the Children of God The Tournament at Constantinople. The Doctrine of Satan. The Fourth Book Letter Xcviii. From the Synod of Chalcedon to Leo. Letter Lxxxii. (AD 405. ) On the Councils, Or, the Faith of the Easterns. Extracts No. vii. The Beloved Pastor's Plea for Unity Resources What are the names of Satan? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a spiritual father? | GotQuestions.org Is God male or female? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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