The Law of first Mention
Another good way to study the Bible is by the use of words first used in the Bible. The law of first mention states that the first time a word appears in the Scriptures, how that word is used sets the “tone,” associations, and basic meaning of the word throughout the rest of the Scriptures. The word definition may be clarified, extended, contrasted, or qualified; but that original meaning will run throughout the entire Book. So I gathered together a few small samples for your further study.
“Love” Genesis 2:2
“Heart” Genesis 6:5
“Believed” Genesis 15:6
“Armies” Exodus 6:26
“Man of God” Deuteronomy 33:1
“Work of God” Exodus 32:16
“Ghost” Genesis 25:8
“My People” Exodus 3:5 *
“Prayer” 2 Samuel 7:27
“The day of the Lord” Isaiah
“Sin” Genesis 4:7
“Angel” Genesis 16:7
“Devils” Leviticus 17:7
“Salvation” Genesis 49:18
“Blood” Genesis 4:10
“Prophet” Genesis 20:7
“Holy” Exodus 3:5
“Scripture” Daniel 10:21
“Wine” Genesis 9:21
“Miracle” Exodus 7:9
“Hell” Deuteronomy 32:22
“Faith” Deuteronomy 32:20
“Preach” Nehemiah 6:7
“Eternal” Deuteronomy 33:27
“Sinners” Genesis 13:13
“Kiss” Genesis 27:26
”Worship” Genesis 22:5
*In Exodus 3:5.. One of the most horrendous passages in the entire Bible, for this is the first time the word “holy” occurs in the Bible. Along with it is the first mention of God calling Israel “my people” (vs.7) and the first sign , “for the Jews require a sign” (vs.3 1Cor. 1:22)….. so much can be learned from this one verse alone. Remember God cursed the ground and the first thing God calls holy is a piece of dirt.
