What is the diaspora?

TL;DR:

The diaspora is a term describing Jews living outside of Israel. The word diaspora is also used to refer to Christians, who are scattered in this world while we await our heavenly citizenship.

The diaspora is a transliterated Greek word that means to distribute or scatter abroad. Various forms of this word are found in six different New Testament passages and referred to Jews who had been dispersed or lived abroad beyond the area of Israel. In more modern times the term diaspora has also been used by Jews to refer to Jewish people returning from Europe to Israel following the reestablishment of modern Israel in 1948. It is now sometimes used to refer to any Jewish people who live outside of modern Israel.

from the old testament

The diaspora of Israel, or Jews living outside of Israel, is first recorded in connection with the destruction of Jerusalem at the hands of Babylon under King Nebuchadnezzar (2 Kings 24:10–16; 2 Kings 25:8–21; 2 Chronicles 36:15–21). Seventy years of exile followed, with many Jews then returning from Babylon and elsewhere to reestablish temple worship and rebuild the wall of Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1–4).
The Greeks under Alexander the Great also conquered Israel, and the Roman Empire eventually took over the land of Israel. These events are not specifically mentioned in Scripture but are inferred and prophesied. For example, the Roman empire was in charge during the time of Jesus in Israel and for the period of the early church (Matthew 22:15–22; Luke 2:1–2; John 19:10–12; Acts 22:25–29; 25:10–12).

from the new testament

The first use of the word diaspora is found in John 7:35 in reference to the dispersed Jews living among the Greeks.
In Acts 8:1–4 the Jewish Christians were scattered, or dispersed, as a result of the stoning of the first martyr Stephen.
By Acts 11:19, diaspora is used in connection with scattered Jewish Christians, with some beginning to share the gospel message with Gentiles.
James is addressed "To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion" (James 1:1). However, in this context the audience consists of Jewish Christians who lived in a variety of locations.
First Peter 1:1 also addresses scattered peoples: "To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia." In Peter's case, he wrote to both Jewish and Gentile Christians living in these areas, revealing that this word also included the scattered people of God as Christians, not just Jews.

implications for today

As Christians living in diaspora, citizens of heaven scattered across the earth while awaiting our Savior's return, we are called to live on mission for God's kingdom (Philippians 3:17–21). Our identity as "elect exiles" (1 Peter 1:1) reminds us that while we are in the world, we are not of it (John 17:16). This understanding should shape how we live—engaging with our communities with purpose, compassion, and a focus on what matters eternally. We are called to be ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), representing His love and truth in a world that desperately needs hope and redemption.

This perspective also encourages us to hold fast to our faith amidst challenges and uncertainties, knowing that our true home is with Christ in heaven (Philippians 3:20). It inspires us to live with a sense of urgency in spreading the gospel and building up the body of believers, recognizing that our actions here contribute to the eternal kingdom of God. Therefore, as we navigate life in this diaspora, we do so with faith, hope, and a commitment to glorify God in all we do, anticipating the day when we will fully dwell in His presence for eternity.

understand

The diaspora, originating from a Greek word meaning “scatter,” initially referred to Jews dispersed outside of Israel, notably after the Babylonian exile.
Found in both Old and New Testaments, the diaspora describes historical dispersion of Jews. It also applies to followers of Jesus who were scattered due to persecution. And it can be applied to all Christians, who are citizens of heaven awaiting Jesus' return.
As Christians in the diaspora, we live on earth for Christ while anticipating our eternal home in heaven.

reflect

How does understanding yourself as an "elect exile" influence how you prioritize your time, resources, and relationships in this temporary world?
How can you engage meaningfully in your community while keeping your focus on your eternal citizenship in heaven?
Considering your identity as an ambassador of Christ, what practical steps can you take to ensure your actions reflect His love and truth in a world that needs hope and redemption?

engage

By the mid-first century AD, many Jews had been dispersed throughout the world to such an extent that historian Josephus wrote, "There is no city, no tribe, whether Greek or barbarian, in which Jewish law and Jewish customs have not taken root."
How did the Babylonian exile (6th century BC) impact Jewish identity and religious practices, particularly concerning their homeland and temple worship?
What are some challenges and opportunities we face as Christians in the diaspora, and how can we support each other in faithfully living out our faith while awaiting our full realization of our heavenly citizenship?