Topical Encyclopedia The term "Children of Strangers" is a biblical expression that often carries a negative connotation, referring to those who are outside the covenant community of Israel and, by extension, those who are estranged from God. This term is used to describe individuals or groups who are foreign to the people of God, both in terms of nationality and spiritual allegiance.In the Old Testament, the Israelites were frequently warned against intermingling with foreign nations, as these nations often worshipped false gods and practiced idolatry. The "children of strangers" thus became a metaphor for those who were not only ethnically distinct but also spiritually alienated from the worship of Yahweh, the one true God. One of the key references to this term is found in Isaiah 2:6 : "For You have abandoned Your people, the house of Jacob, because they are filled with influences from the east; they are soothsayers like the Philistines, and they clasp hands with the children of foreigners." Here, the "children of foreigners" are associated with pagan practices and influences that lead the Israelites away from their covenant relationship with God. The term also appears in the context of judgment and divine retribution. In Isaiah 60:10 , it is written: "Foreigners will rebuild your walls, and their kings will serve you. Although I struck you in anger, yet in favor I will show you mercy." This passage suggests a reversal of fortunes where the "children of strangers" will serve the people of God, indicating a future time of restoration and divine favor for Israel. In the New Testament, the concept of "children of strangers" is expanded to include all who are outside the faith in Christ. Ephesians 2:12 states, "remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world." Here, the apostle Paul reminds Gentile believers of their former status as spiritual outsiders before being brought near through the blood of Christ. Theologically, the term underscores the biblical theme of separation between the righteous and the wicked, the covenant people of God and those who are not. It serves as a warning against the dangers of spiritual compromise and the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God. In summary, "Children of Strangers" is a biblical term that highlights the distinction between those who belong to God and those who do not. It serves as a reminder of the call to holiness and the dangers of adopting the practices and beliefs of those who are estranged from the covenant community. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 2:6Therefore you have forsaken your people the house of Jacob, because they be replenished from the east, and are soothsayers like the Philistines, and they please themselves in the children of strangers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library As in a Race Saw I the Disputers, the Children of Strife, [Trying] ... They Shall be Called the Children of God Psalm LXXXIII. The Lord's Supper Effectual Calling A Plea Regarding Christians by Athenagoras, the Athenian On the Arrival of the Egyptians. Cli. Letter or Address of Theodoret to the Monks of the ... Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. Homilies on the Gospel of John. 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.org What is the meaning of “Everlasting Father” in Isaiah 9:6? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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