2 Kings 21:13

I will stretch out over Jerusalem the measuring line used against Samaria and the plumb line used against the house of Ahab, and I will wipe out Jerusalem as one wipes out a bowl--wiping it and turning it upside down.

Study Bible

I will stretch over Jerusalem
The phrase "I will stretch" suggests an action of deliberate measurement and judgment. In the Hebrew context, the verb "to stretch" (natah) often implies an extension of influence or power. Here, God is extending His judgment over Jerusalem, indicating a divine assessment of the city's moral and spiritual state. The imagery of stretching a line signifies precision and thoroughness, emphasizing that God's judgment is neither arbitrary nor capricious but measured and just.

the measuring line of Samaria
The "measuring line" (qaw) is a tool used for construction, symbolizing judgment and destruction in this context. Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, had already faced God's judgment due to its idolatry and sin. By referencing Samaria, God warns Jerusalem that it will face a similar fate if it continues in its disobedience. This serves as a historical reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, urging the people of Jerusalem to heed the lessons of their northern neighbors.

and the plumb line of the house of Ahab
A "plumb line" (mishqeleth) is used to ensure vertical accuracy in building, symbolizing the standard of righteousness. The "house of Ahab" refers to the dynasty of one of Israel's most notorious kings, known for leading the nation into idolatry and immorality. By invoking Ahab, God highlights the severity of Jerusalem's sin, equating it with the infamous wickedness of Ahab's reign. This serves as a stark warning that deviation from God's standards will lead to inevitable judgment.

I will wipe Jerusalem as one wipes a bowl
The act of wiping a bowl clean (machah) signifies a complete and thorough cleansing. In ancient times, a bowl would be wiped to remove all remnants, leaving it spotless. This metaphor illustrates God's intention to purify Jerusalem by removing all traces of its sin and corruption. It is a vivid depiction of divine judgment that also carries a redemptive undertone, suggesting that after judgment, there is the possibility of renewal and restoration.

wiping it and turning it upside down
The repetition of "wiping" emphasizes the totality of the cleansing process. Turning the bowl "upside down" (haphak) signifies a complete overturning of the current state of affairs. This phrase underscores the radical transformation that God's judgment will bring. It serves as a call to repentance, urging the people to recognize the seriousness of their situation and to turn back to God before it is too late. The imagery of overturning also hints at the potential for a new beginning, should the people choose to align themselves with God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant in biblical history as the center of worship and the location of the Temple.

2. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, known for its idolatry and eventual destruction.

3. House of Ahab
Refers to the dynasty of King Ahab of Israel, notorious for its wickedness and idolatry.

4. Measuring Line and Plumb Line
Tools used metaphorically to signify judgment and destruction, indicating precision and thoroughness.

5. Manasseh
The king of Judah during this time, whose reign was marked by idolatry and evil practices, leading to God's pronouncement of judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Standard of Righteousness
God's use of the measuring line and plumb line signifies His unchanging standard of righteousness. Believers are called to align their lives with God's standards, avoiding the pitfalls of idolatry and sin.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Just as Samaria and the house of Ahab faced destruction due to their idolatry, so too does persistent sin lead to judgment. Christians must guard against modern forms of idolatry, prioritizing God above all else.

Repentance and Restoration
While judgment is pronounced, the opportunity for repentance remains. Believers should seek God's forgiveness and strive for spiritual renewal, trusting in His mercy and grace.

The Importance of Leadership
Manasseh's reign highlights the impact of leadership on a nation's spiritual health. Christian leaders are called to lead with integrity and faithfulness, guiding others toward righteousness.

God's Faithfulness to His Word
God's pronouncement against Jerusalem demonstrates His faithfulness to His word, both in promises and warnings. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness, knowing He fulfills His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the measuring line and plumb line in 2 Kings 21:13 challenge us to evaluate our own lives against God's standards?

2. In what ways can modern Christians fall into the trap of idolatry, and how can we guard against it?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's mercy and restoration after a period of disobedience. How did this impact your faith journey?

4. How can Christian leaders today ensure they are leading in a way that honors God and promotes spiritual health among those they influence?

5. Considering God's faithfulness to His word, how can we cultivate a deeper trust in His promises and warnings in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Amos 7:7-9
The imagery of the plumb line is also used here, symbolizing God's standard of righteousness and impending judgment.

Isaiah 28:17
The measuring line and plumb line are used to depict justice and righteousness, contrasting with the corruption in Jerusalem.

2 Kings 17:6-23
Details the fall of Samaria due to idolatry, serving as a warning to Judah.

1 Kings 21:21-24
God's judgment against the house of Ahab, illustrating the consequences of persistent sin.