Understanding 2 Kings 3:20

Verse: "And it came to pass in the morning when the meat offering was offered, that, behold, there came water by the way of Edom, and the country was filled with water."

Summary

The verse from 2 Kings 3:20 shows a miraculous provision from God during a time of desperate need. The context reveals a coalition of kings (Jehoram of Israel, Jehoshaphat of Judah, and the king of Edom) who sought to defeat Moab but found themselves in a precarious situation without water. This verse highlights God's providence in supplying water in an unexpected manner, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary

  Matthew Henry emphasizes the distinction between Israel's rebellion and God's mercy. Despite the wickedness of the kings, God provided water as a token of His grace. This reflects how God can meet the needs of His people even in dire circumstances when they turn to Him.

• Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

  Albert Barnes notes the significance of the "morning" when the meat offering was presented. This time likely signifies a fresh start, representing how God responds to sacrifices made in faith. The water coming from Edom suggests that God's blessings can flow from unexpected sources, reinforcing His control over creation.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary

  Adam Clarke discusses the geographical and historical context of Edom. He points out the importance of understanding local geography when interpreting Scripture, as it can reveal deeper meanings in God’s provision. He also notes the shift from despair to abundance as God's transformation of circumstances is revealed through a naturally impossible occurrence.

Related Bible Cross-References

• Exodus 17:6: The provision of water from the rock at Horeb demonstrates God's ability to supply needs in desperate situations.
• Psalm 78:15-16: References how God brought streams out of the rock, showing His faithful provision to Israel in the wilderness.
• Isaiah 41:17: God promises to hear the cries of the needy and to provide for them, linking back to the deliverance seen in Kings.
• 2 Chronicles 20:9: When the people faced a crisis, they prayed and God responded, akin to the situation in 2 Kings.
• John 7:38: Jesus speaks of rivers of living water, connecting Old Testament revelations of God’s provision to New Testament fulfillment.
• Matthew 14:19: Jesus feeding the 5000 is another illustration of miraculous provision illustrating God’s compassion for His people.
• Philippians 4:19: "And my God shall supply all your needs..." echoes the themes of divine provision found in 2 Kings.
• Revelation 7:17: It alludes to God's promise to provide for His people eternally, connecting Old Testament provision themes to future hope.
• Luke 1:53: "He has filled the hungry with good things," reflecting God's ongoing miraculous provisions through history.
• Hebrews 11:6: It emphasizes that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him, linking to the faith demonstrated by the kings in seeking divine guidance.

Thematic Connections

This verse and its surrounding context can be seen as part of broader themes in Scripture regarding God's provision, salvation, and mercy:

• God's Mercy: Despite human failure and rebellion, God remains willing to provide for His people.
• Faith and Sacrifice: The connection between morning offerings and divine response illustrates the importance of faith and sacrifice.
• Divine Sovereignty: The unexpected delivery of water reinforces God's control over nature and events.
• Hope in Despair: The miraculous supply of water serves as a metaphor for hope amidst despair.

Concluding Reflections

2 Kings 3:20 provides profound insights into God's nature as a provider amidst desperation. By linking it to other relevant scriptures, we can see a pattern of divine provision and human reliance on God throughout the Bible. Whether examining the Old Testament narratives or New Testament fulfillments, the interconnectedness of these themes illustrates a cohesive divine story of mercy, grace, and providence.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

For those engaging in deeper study, consider utilizing:

• Bible concordance
• Bible cross-reference guides
• Cross-reference Bible study methodologies
• Comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials