The Tower Of Babel Began The Great Divorce From God For The Nations

Dr. Michael S. Heiser・2 minutes read

The Old Testament tracks the conflict between Israel, Yahweh, and the nations, starting with Babel and Abraham, leading to the flood with Noah, and warning against idolatry in Deuteronomy and Psalm 82. Ultimately, Israel is chosen to bring nations back to God through the Messiah, as seen in the apostle Paul's mission to the Gentiles.

Insights

  • The Old Testament portrays a narrative of conflict between Israel and other nations, as well as between Yahweh and other gods, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to God and the consequences of idolatry.
  • Through the stories of Abraham, Noah, and Israel, the text underscores the theme of divine selection and the mission of Israel to bring blessings to all nations through the Messiah, laying the foundation for Paul's mission to the Gentiles and the broader message of redemption and inclusion.

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Recent questions

  • What is the significance of the conflict between Israel and the nations?

    The conflict between Israel and the nations in the Old Testament sets the stage for the overarching theme of God's chosen people versus those who worship other gods. This conflict highlights the importance of loyalty to Yahweh and the consequences of turning away from Him.

  • How does the story of Noah and the flood relate to the Edenic mandate?

    The story of Noah and the flood in Genesis serves as a reset for humanity after the fall in Genesis 3 and the rebellion in Genesis 6. It reiterates the Edenic mandate to populate the earth and showcases God's commitment to His creation despite humanity's shortcomings.

  • What is the significance of the divine council meeting in Psalm 82?

    The divine council meeting in Psalm 82 sheds light on God's judgment of other gods for their injustice and corruption. It emphasizes the consequences of idolatry and serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority over all beings.

  • How does Israel play a role in bringing blessing to the nations?

    Israel is chosen by God to be a conduit of blessing to the nations, with the ultimate goal of bringing all nations back into the fold through the Messiah. This highlights the importance of Israel's role in spreading God's message and love to the world.

  • What is the covenant highlighted in Deuteronomy and its significance?

    Deuteronomy emphasizes the covenant between God and His people, warning against worshipping other gods and serving idols. It underscores the consequences of abandoning the covenant and showcases the importance of loyalty and faithfulness to God.

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Summary

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Conflict and Blessing: Israel's Divine Mission

  • The Old Testament begins with the aftermath of Babel and the call of Abraham, setting the stage for the conflict between Israel and the nations, as well as Yahweh and the gods.
  • Genesis recounts a fall in Genesis 3 and a second rebellion in Genesis 6, leading to a flood that prompts God to restart with Noah and his sons, reiterating the Edenic mandate to populate the earth.
  • Despite humanity still bearing God's image, they congregate at Babel, prompting God to divorce and disinherit them, assigning them to lesser elohim in Deuteronomy 4 and 32.
  • The nations are warned against worshipping other gods, with Deuteronomy highlighting the consequences of abandoning the covenant and serving gods not allotted to them.
  • Psalm 82 reveals a divine council meeting where God judges other gods for injustice and corruption, sentencing them to death for encouraging idolatry.
  • Israel is chosen by God to be a conduit of blessing to the nations, with the ultimate goal of bringing all nations back into the fold through the Messiah, setting the stage for the apostle Paul's mission to the Gentiles.
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