Commentary on 2 Kings 21:13

Bible Verse (2 Kings 21:13, NKJV): "And I will stretch over Jerusalem the line of Samaria and the plummet of the house of Ahab; I will wipe Jerusalem as one wipes a dish, wiping it and turning it upside down."

Introduction

This verse serves as a significant declaration within the historical narrative of Kings. It illustrates God's judgment upon Jerusalem through a potent metaphor of construction and destruction. The Lord utilizes the imagery of a measuring line and a plummet to convey the seriousness of His impending judgment on the nation. The commentaries from renowned theologians shed light on the multi-layered meanings within this verse.

Contextual Background

2 Kings 21 discusses the reign of King Manasseh, noted for his idolatrous practices and significant injustice. The preceding chapters illuminate the spiritual decay that plagued Judah, caused primarily by leaders who turned away from God. This verse is part of the prophecy that foretells the consequences of such unfaithfulness.

Historical Setting

During Manasseh’s reign, Judah experienced a regression into paganism that resulted in disfavor from God. This prophecy, therefore, emerges as a pivotal moment, indicating God's serious response to the spiritual corruption in Judah.

Commentary Insights

Below, we explore the insights drawn from the commentaries of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke that highlight the spiritual implications and theological import of 2 Kings 21:13.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God’s judgment. He notes that God will "stretch over Jerusalem the line of Samaria," indicating a direct comparison between Jerusalem and the now-destroyed northern kingdom of Israel (Samaria), which had already faced God's wrath. The plummet symbolizes the precise standards of righteousness that God expects from His people.

• Wiping as a Dish: Henry makes the poignant observation that wiping a dish illustrates thorough cleansing. This signifies complete eradication of wickedness from Jerusalem, showing God's intent to remove every trace of idolatry.
• Spiritual Implications: The metaphor emphasizes that just as a dish is turned upside down for cleaning, so will Jerusalem face total upheaval in the form of exile and destruction unless there is repentance.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Barnes provides a formulaic analysis of the textual elements. He discusses the line and plummet as tools for evaluating buildings, likening these to God’s process of judgment that utilizes righteousness as the standard.

• God's Measurement: Barnes articulates that God's judgments are based on His perfect justice. By measuring Jerusalem against Samaria, He is highlighting the failure of Jerusalem to adhere to His commands, similar to how Samaria had rejected God.
• Divine Repercussions: He elaborates on the concept of divine repercussions, noting that just as a builder will use tools to ensure accurate construction, God uses judgment to restore righteousness.

Adam Clarke's Comments

Adam Clarke adds a cultural understanding to the passage, exploring the implications of the Hebrew context and the ancient practices related to construction and measurement. Clarke reflects on the act of “wiping” as symbolic of divine judgment.

• Hebrew Interpretation: Clarke notes the Hebrew word for 'wipe' indicates not merely a superficial cleaning but a comprehensive removal. This accentuates the severity of God's actions against a people He had chosen yet rejected Him.
• Hope amidst Judgment: Despite the grim declaration, Clarke suggests that this prophecy should evoke a response of repentance, highlighting that God’s intention is not merely judgment but restoration. God desires for His people to return to Him.

Theological Implications

2 Kings 21:13 carries poignant theological implications that resonate throughout scripture:

• God's Sovereignty: The passage underscores the sovereignty of God in matters of national and personal judgment, reminding readers that He holds final authority over nations.
• Moral Accountability: It reinforces the belief in moral accountability. The nations—both Israel and Judah—are responsible for their covenantal obligations to God, facing dire consequences upon transgression.
• Redemptive Potential: Amidst the prophecy of destruction, there lies a thread of redemptive potential, indicating that God is not dismissive but deeply involved, seeking a return to righteousness and relationship.

Conclusion

In summary, 2 Kings 21:13 serves as a stark reminder of God's holiness and justice. The articulated judgment offers both warning and hope, reflecting God's desire for repentance and restoration. For pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, this verse provides rich material for meditation on the depths of divine justice paired with the grace that beckons sinners to return to God.