In the Bible, the term “remnant” generally refers to a small, surviving group of people who remain faithful to God amidst judgment, apostasy, or destruction that affects the larger community. This concept carries both themes of preservation and hope, emphasizing that even when a larger population turns away from God, a faithful remnant exists who remains true to His covenant.
### Old Testament References
1. **Isaiah 10:20-22**: “In that day the remnant of Israel, the survivors of the house of Jacob, will no longer rely on their oppressors but will truly rely on the Lord, the Holy One of Israel. A remnant will return—a remnant of Jacob will return to the Mighty God. Though your people be like the sand by the sea, Israel, only a remnant will return. Destruction has been decreed, overwhelming and righteous.”
This passage highlights that after judgment, a portion of Israel will return to God, emphasizing the hope found in the remnant.
2. **Micah 2:12**: “I will surely gather all of you, Jacob; I will surely bring together the remnant of Israel. I will bring them together like sheep in a pen, like a flock in its pasture; the place will throng with people.”
Here, Micah speaks of God’s promise to gather the remnant of His people, depicting them as a flock under His care.
3. **Zephaniah 3:12-13**: “But I will leave within you the meek and humble, who trust in the name of the Lord. The remnant of Israel will do no wrong; they will speak no lies, nor will deceit be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down in safety, with no one to make them afraid.”
This passage presents the remnant as those characterized by humility and righteousness.
### New Testament References
1. **Romans 11:5**: “So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.”
In this context, Paul refers to Jewish believers who have remained faithful to God’s promises, illustrating that God preserves a remnant even in the midst of widespread unbelief.
2. **Revelation 12:17**: “Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.”
The remnant in this verse refers to those who are faithful to God and His commands, suggesting that throughout difficult times, there exists a group that remains steadfast.
### Summary
The biblical concept of a remnant serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to preserve a group unto Himself, even when judgment is enacted or when many turn away. It highlights themes of restoration, hope, and the continuity of God’s covenant promises through a faithful minority.