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2 Kings 7:4 Cross References
If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.
Uncover the Rich Themes and Topics of This Bible Verse
Listed below are the Bible themes associated with 2 Kings 7:4. We invite you to explore each theme to gain deeper insights into the Scriptures.
2 Kings 7:4 Cross Reference Verses
This section features a detailed cross-reference designed to enrich your understanding of the Scriptures. Below, you will find carefully selected verses that echo the themes and teachings related to 2 Kings 7:4 KJV. Click on any image to explore detailed analyses of related Bible verses and uncover deeper theological insights.
2 Samuel 14:14 (KJV) »
For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him.
Esther 4:16 (KJV) »
Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.
Jeremiah 14:18 (KJV) »
If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then behold them that are sick with famine! yea, both the prophet and the priest go about into a land that they know not.
Jonah 3:9 (KJV) »
Who can tell if God will turn and repent, and turn away from his fierce anger, that we perish not?
Luke 15:17 (KJV) »
And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
1 Chronicles 12:19 (KJV) »
And there fell some of Manasseh to David, when he came with the Philistines against Saul to battle: but they helped them not: for the lords of the Philistines upon advisement sent him away, saying, He will fall to his master Saul to the jeopardy of our heads.
Jeremiah 8:14 (KJV) »
Why do we sit still? assemble yourselves, and let us enter into the defenced cities, and let us be silent there: for the LORD our God hath put us to silence, and given us water of gall to drink, because we have sinned against the LORD.
Jeremiah 37:13 (KJV) »
And when he was in the gate of Benjamin, a captain of the ward was there, whose name was Irijah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah; and he took Jeremiah the prophet, saying, Thou fallest away to the Chaldeans.
2 Kings 7:4 Verse Analysis and Similar Verses
Understanding 2 Kings 7:4
Verse: "If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also: now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die."
Summary of Meaning
This verse depicts a critical moment during a time of great famine in Samaria, emphasizing the despair and dire choices faced by the characters involved—the lepers. They are in a state of hopelessness as both remaining in their current location and seeking refuge in the city present no avenues for survival. The action they contemplate offers them the only chance of life, revealing themes of urgency and decision-making in dire circumstances.
Commentary Insights
- Matthew Henry:
Henry discusses the precarious situation of the lepers, recognizing that their physical ailments further isolate them during this crisis. He highlights their rational assessment of circumstances—the city offers no food, while surrendering to the enemy presents the only possibility for survival, albeit risky.
- Albert Barnes:
Barnes interprets the lepers' dilemma as symbolic of faith and desperation. He notes that the lepers' conclusion signifies a turning point; their willingness to approach the enemy reflects a depth of resolve that can inspire hope, suggesting that sometimes taking bold risks can lead to deliverance.
- Adam Clarke:
Clarke emphasizes that the lepers’ situation illustrates a profound truth about human choice in the face of adversity. He indicates that their decision-making is motivated by a blend of fear and trust, revealing the intricate balance between human initiative and divine providence.
Thematic Connections
This verse can be studied in conjunction with various other scriptures to deepen understanding and provide broader thematic connections:
- 1 Kings 17:10-12: Elijah and the widow of Zarephath—similar themes of desperation and divine provision.
- Isaiah 65:1: God reaches out to the people, illustrating the importance of seeking help in times of trial.
- Luke 15:17-19: The prodigal son's realization of his plight mirrors the lepers' awareness.
- Philippians 4:19: Assurance of God's provision parallels the lepers' hopeful surrender to the Syrians.
- James 2:26: Faith in action, similar to the lepers making a bold choice in desperate times.
- Matthew 7:7: Asking and seeking, echoing the themes of pursuing help.
- Romans 8:31: If God is for us, who can be against us? Encouraging a theme of reliance on God's aid.
Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts
As we explore 2 Kings 7:4, use these cross-referencing tools to connect this passage with others in scripture for deeper understanding:
- Bible concordance for thematic connections between the Old Testament and New Testament.
- Cross-reference Bible study methods to categorize similar stories of people in despair.
- Bible reference resources to obtain contextual background for the passages related to famine and survival.
- How to find cross-references in the Bible to engage in detailed thematic studies.
Conclusion
2 Kings 7:4 serves as an impactful reminder of human resourcefulness in the face of despair and the profound truth that sometimes, moving toward the unknown can yield the greatest opportunities for deliverance. The themes present in this verse resonate across various scriptures, creating connections that enhance the understanding of God's providential care even in the darkest moments.