The law of first mention is a biblical interpretive principle that states that the first mention of a subject in Scripture establishes an unchangeable pattern, a foundational template meaning, for that particular subject. This principle applies to doctrines, rituals, names, and words themselves. The first time a word or concept appears in the Bible influences how that word or concept should be interpreted throughout the rest of Scripture.
The law of first mention is demonstrated in Genesis 3 with the first appearance of the serpent. The serpent is established in this first appearance as a creature cursed by God, destined to be defeated, and representing deception, craftiness, and the evil spiritual realm. Every other mention of serpents throughout Scripture must be understood in light of this first introduction. Another example is the first mention of “seed” in Genesis 3:15, referring to Eve’s offspring who would one day defeat the serpent. This establishes that the primary meaning of “seed” is Jesus Christ.
Some key principles of the law of first mention:
- The context of the first mention of a subject is crucial for establishing its fundamental meaning.
- First mentions often set precedents for how that subject is understood.
- First mentions are expanded upon later, but the essence remains unchanged.
- Often the first use of a term in Scripture is accompanied by an explanation of its meaning.
There are several good reasons to pay special attention to first mentions in Scripture:
- God was deliberate in what He chose to reveal first. The Scripture writers did not just haphazardly present topics.
- First revelations are foundational. Truth is built upon what is first established.
- The law of first mention recognizes God’s orderly revelation, not random events.
- The Holy Spirit had full control over what was first presented and what was withheld until later.
The law of first mention does not mean that a first mention is the complete or only meaning of a subject. But it does mean that truths are often introduced simply before being expanded upon later. For example, we first meet Abraham in Genesis 11, but it is not until Genesis 12 that God makes the formal covenant with him and explains His promises. The initial mention is built upon.
The law of first mention is an important principle for interpreting Scripture. By understanding passages like Genesis 3 and 12, we can see how God establishes foundations that illuminate truths communicated later in Scripture. Paying attention to first mentions equips us to better understand the Bible’s internal consistency and the unified message God wants to communicate. While not every detail is revealed at first mention, the initial contexts give us anchors for adding to our understanding.
Here are some examples of the law of first mention in Scripture:
Serpent
The first mention of the serpent is in Genesis 3, where the serpent tempts Eve. This passage presents the serpent as a crafty creature used by Satan to deceive mankind. Every other mention of serpents – like Moses’ staff turned into a serpent before Pharaoh or the serpents sent by God as judgment – must be understood in light of this first portrayal of the serpent’s relationship with God and spiritual powers.
Seed
The first mention of seed in Genesis 3:15 refers to Eve’s offspring, who would be enemies of the serpent. This points to Jesus Christ as the primary meaning of “seed.” Other references to descendents as “seed” draw meaning from this initial reference to the Messiah’s victory over evil.
Altar
The first mention of an altar is when Noah built one to the Lord after the Flood in Genesis 8. This establishes the altar as a place to offer sacrifices and worship God. Later altars follow this same pattern. The initial mention provides the framework for the purpose and use of altars.
Covenant
While the term “covenant” is not used when God makes His first covenant with Noah in Genesis 6, this passage establishes God as the initiator of covenants. It introduces covenant as God’s chosen means to relate to His people. When Abraham and others later refer to their “covenant” with God, this first example provides meaning.
Joseph
The first biblical reference to Joseph is as the beloved son of Jacob, given a coat of many colors. Though Joseph goes through trials in Egypt, this initial identity as his father’s favored son anchors Joseph’s character and role. His later leadership is built upon this first depiction.
Paying attention to a term or concept’s first appearance in Scripture often provides insight into its fundamental and enduring meaning. While God reveals truths progressively, He introduces themes and patterns at the very beginning in embryonic form. These first mentions establish a baseline for interpretation that sets the stage for greater understanding as Scripture unfolds. Appreciating the law of first mention allows us to better discern the unified message God wants to communicate through His Word from beginning to end.
The law of first mention is an invaluable principle for studying and understanding the Bible. By paying close attention to the initial context and usage of key terms, phrases, concepts, people, and patterns, we anchor our interpretation to the framework God has established. The original meaning and essence revealed in first mentions resurfaces consistently throughout Scripture. As our understanding grows, we must always filter it through those initial presentations that reflect God’s deliberate revelation. Applying the law of first mention will equip us to better grasp the depth and coherence of biblical truth.