Psalms 136:17 - Summary and Interpretation

Psalms 136:17 reads: "To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth forever:" This verse highlights the sovereignty and power of God by recalling His acts of judgment against mighty rulers. Below is a consolidated interpretation based on insights from public domain commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, focusing on the themes of divine mercy, justice, and the historical context of Israel's relationship with surrounding nations.

Verse Meaning

The psalmist expresses gratitude for God's enduring mercy as evidenced in His acts of intervention in human affairs. The phrase "smote great kings" refers to God's decisive actions against powerful adversaries who opposed His people, illustrating His ultimate authority over all.

Thematic Connections

This verse connects with other scriptures that portray God’s might and mercy in overcoming formidable enemies. Below are notable themes and connections across the Bible:

• Divine Protection: The idea that God protects His people against powerful foes (e.g., Exodus 14:14; Isaiah 54:17).
• God's Sovereignty: Reflecting God's rule over nations and kings (e.g., Psalm 75:7; Daniel 2:21).
• Historical Acts of Judgement: Reminding Israel of their history of deliverance (e.g., Joshua 10:12-14).
• Enduring Mercy: The consistent theme of God's mercy despite human failure (e.g., Lamentations 3:22-23).
• Victory Through Faith: God's promise that faith results in victory over the enemy (e.g., Romans 8:31).

Comparative Bible Verse Analysis

In comparing Psalms 136:17 with other scriptures, we see a robust inter-Biblical dialogue showcasing God's might:

• Psalm 18:47: "It is God that avengeth me, and subdueth the people under me."
• 1 Samuel 17:47: "The battle is the Lord's..." illustrating God's intervention in battles.
• Isaiah 37:36: "Then the angel of the Lord went forth, and slew in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred fourscore and five thousand."
• Revelation 19:15: Refers to the authority of Christ in executing judgment.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

To analyze and understand the connections among different scriptures, various tools can aid in cross-referencing:

• Bible Concordance: A tool that provides indexes to words and phrases found in the Bible.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: This explains the relationships and context between verses.
• Bible Reference Resources: Study Bibles include annotations that highlight connections.
• Bible Chain References: These help follow thematic threads through various books.

Identifying Connections in Scripture

Understanding how specific verses relate involves exploring cross-references. For instance, one might ask:

• What verses are related to Psalms 136:17? Explore themes of divine justice and mercy.
• Find cross-references for Psalms 136:17: Highlight historical events of God’s judgment.
• How do Psalms 136:17 connect with Isaiah 54:17? Both highlight victory over adversaries.

Conclusion

Psalms 136:17 encapsulates a fundamental truth about God's character: He is a mighty protector whose mercy extends eternally. By studying this verse alongside scripture's vast tapestry of connections, one can deepen their understanding of God's faithfulness throughout biblical history.