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The term "disperses" in the biblical context often refers to the scattering or spreading out of people, nations, or groups, typically as a result of divine intervention or judgment. This concept is prevalent throughout the Scriptures and is used to illustrate God's sovereignty, justice, and sometimes His mercy.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the idea of dispersion is frequently associated with God's judgment upon His people for their disobedience. One of the earliest examples is the Tower of Babel incident inGenesis 11:8-9, where God confuses the language of the people and disperses them over the face of the earth: "So the LORD scattered them from there over the face of the whole earth, and they stopped building the city." This act of dispersion was a direct response to human pride and rebellion.

The theme of dispersion is also evident in the history of Israel. Due to their persistent idolatry and failure to uphold the covenant, God allowed the Assyrians and Babylonians to conquer and exile the Israelites. InDeuteronomy 28:64, Moses warns the Israelites of this consequence: "Then the LORD will scatter you among all nations, from one end of the earth to the other." This dispersion served as both punishment and a means to purify and eventually restore the nation.

Prophetic Literature

The prophets frequently spoke of dispersion as both a current reality and a future hope. InJeremiah 31:10, the prophet declares, "Hear the word of the LORD, O nations, and declare it in the distant coastlands: 'The One who scattered Israel will gather them and keep them as a shepherd keeps his flock.'" Here, dispersion is not the final word; it is part of a divine plan that includes eventual regathering and restoration.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of dispersion takes on a broader, more spiritual dimension. The early Christians, particularly after the stoning of Stephen, were dispersed due to persecution.Acts 8:1 notes, "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." This dispersion, while initially a result of persecution, ultimately served to spread the Gospel message beyond Jerusalem, fulfilling Jesus' command inActs 1:8 to be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth."

The Apostle Peter addresses his first epistle to the "elect exiles of the Dispersion" (1 Peter 1:1), acknowledging the scattered state of believers across various regions. This dispersion is seen as part of God's providential plan to spread the message of salvation and to refine the faith of His people.

Theological Implications

Theologically, dispersion underscores God's control over human history and His ability to use even adverse circumstances to accomplish His purposes. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience, yet it also highlights God's redemptive plan. Through dispersion, God not only judges but also preserves a remnant, ensuring the continuity of His covenant promises.

In summary, the biblical theme of dispersion reflects both judgment and hope, illustrating God's justice and mercy. It is a testament to His sovereign will and His unwavering commitment to His people, even in their scattered state.2219. zarah -- to scatter, fan, winnow
... root Definition to scatter, fan, winnow NASB Word Usage disperse (5), dispersed
(1),disperses (1), north (1), scatter (13), scattered (7), scrutinize (1...

6327a. puts -- to be dispersed or scattered
... root Definition to be dispersed or scattered NASB Word Usage disperse yourselves
(1), dispersed (2), dispersed* (1),disperses (1), harry (1), pour (1...

Concerning Power, Justice, Preservation, Redemption, in which Also...
... the heavenly and the life-giving and astral bodies [51] and orders without change:
and makes the period of time possible to be; anddisperses the revolutions...

"As a Heathen Man and a Publican. "
... but not with you in judgment, he is against you; and is much worse than the open
enemies from without, since with seeming friendship hedisperses those who are...

Comparison of Christ's Power Over Winds and Waves with Moses'...
... "The Lord," says the psalmist, "is upon many waters." [4223] When Hedisperses its
waves, Habakkuk's words are fulfilled, where he says, "Scattering the waters...

Of the Fact that the Precepts of the Gospel are Milder than those...
... For no faithless anxiety for getting food will annoy him who piously distributes
anddisperses his wealth already consecrated to Christ and no longer regarded...

None Upon Earth I Desire Besides Thee. Ps 73:25:00
... His name yields the richest perfume,. And sweeter than music his voice; His
presencedisperses my gloom,. And makes all within me rejoice:...

The Creation of Moving Creatures.
... With us the lung, that porous and spongy portion of the inward parts which receives
air by the dilatation of the chest,disperses and cools interior warmth; in...

De Fleury. 8S. D
... 2 His name yields the richest perfume, And sweeter than music his voice; His presence
disperses my gloom, And makes all within me rejoice: I should, were he...

How the Silent and the Talkative are to be Admonished.
... unto higher levels, in that it seeks again the height from which it descended; and,
when let loose, it falls away in that itdisperses itself unprofitably...

Of Uncharitable Truth.
... neighbor's ointment, Eccles.10.1. the vapor whereof his hate, like a strong
wind, scatters anddisperses far and near. Nor needs he...

The Tenth Book Discusses the Unattainable and Incomprehensible
... for us many names, receiving them in accordance with the variety of His gracious
dealings with us [935] , being called the Light when Hedisperses the gloom of...

Disperses (4 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version ConcordanceDisperses (4 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 30:1 It
shall happen, when all these things have come on you, the...

Dispersed (28 Occurrences)

Dispersing (1 Occurrence)

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