[Greek]σκορπίζω (skorpizō), [Latin] dissipare: to scatter, to be scattered, to disperse, to be dispersed, to put into flight, to give generously; Mt.12:30, Lk.11:23, Jn.10:12, Jn.16:32, 2Cor.9:9
The scorpion scatters
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term essentially means to scatter, to disperse, and to divide. Polybius’ Histories 1.47.4 states “The sea was too deep. The breakers and the force of the current dislodged and scattered everything that was thrown, before it could reach the bottom.” Polybius’ Histories 27.2 states “A rapid change passed over the face of things in each of the towns, for they were separated by a very narrow interval from each other. Their policy of splitting up the league of the Boeotian towns, and of destroying the popularity of the Macedonian royal house with the Boeotian populace having thus completely succeeded.”
Old Testament: This Greek term, relating to several Hebrew terms, takes on many meanings and contexts. This term can mean to be a stranger, to be estranged, to be alienated, to scatter, to be scattered, to be dispersed, to winnow, to shake out, to overthrow, to be tossed, to separate, and to be separated. This term makes frequent references to God’s judgment against His enemies (ex. Egypt). The people will be scattered because of their disobedience. Zechariah also speaks that the Shepherd of God will be smited and the sheep will be scattered. The Messiah will later gather His sheep.
He sent forth arrows to put them to flight, He flashed lightning and routed them (2Sam.22:15). They were scattered in fearful trembling, terrified by apparitions (Sol.17:3). Strike the shepherd that the sheep may be dispersed (Zech.13:7). The Lord will scatter you among the nations (Deut.4:27). But no unauthorized person may eat of them (Exo.29:33). They sacrificed to demons, to gods they had never known (Deut.32:16). This night he will be winnowing barley at the threshing floor (Ruth 3:2)
New Testament: This term means to scatter, to disperse, and to give generously. Jesus defines those who do not support (or who abandon) Him as ones who scatter. Jesus presents Himself as the faithful Shepherd who will not abandon His flock. Upon His arrest in the garden of Gethsemene, Jesus foretells the hour when the disciples will abandon Him. Jesus references Zech 13:7 which foretells that the sheep will be dispersed when the Shepherd is stricken. Paul states that God will provide enduring righteousness and overwhelming generosity. This references Psa. 111:7 which alludes to the blessings (children, wealth, and virtue) given to those who remain close to God.
Scripture:
“Whoever is not with Me is against me, and whoever does not gather with Me scatters.” Mt. 12:30
There is no neutrality or ambivalence where Jesus is concerned. One has to make choice whether or not to be with Jesus.
“A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them.” Jn. 10:12
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who is faithful to His sheep.
“As it is written, ‘He scatters abroad, He gives to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.’” 2Cor.9:9
God is capable of providing overwhelming generosity.
Conclusion:
Scorpion, scorpion, dissipate
I was surprised that in the Old Testament this term takes on many meanings and senses. The more nuanced meanings include stranger, layman, outsider, and enemy. Scattering and dispersing, used actively and passively, play an important role in defining the relationship with God (Yawheh) and Israel. God disperses the Israelites because of their disobedience. God also allows the Messiah to later gather the lost sheep (Israelites and Gentiles).
It is perhaps not surprising that Jesus requires total commitment to Him. Indecision and indifference are unacceptable for Him. Perhaps not enough attention or focus is given to the notion that God is abundant in His generosity. In other words, staying close to God has its own rewards. God scatters these blessings.
Don’t let these opportunities scatter from you!