The term "overtakest" is an archaic form of the verb "overtake," which appears in various contexts throughout the Bible. In the Berean Standard Bible , the concept of overtaking is often associated with pursuit, judgment, and divine retribution, as well as with blessings and promises.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Pursuit and Judgment: The idea of overtaking is frequently used in the context of pursuit, often by enemies or as a form of divine judgment. In Deuteronomy 28:15, the consequences of disobedience to God's commandments are described: "But if you do not obey the LORD your God by carefully following all His commandments and statutes I am giving you today, all these curses will come upon you and overtake you." Here, overtaking signifies the inescapable nature of divine judgment upon those who turn away from God's laws.

2. Divine Retribution: In the prophetic literature, overtaking is used to describe the certainty of God's retribution against the wicked. For instance, in Jeremiah 42:16, the prophet warns the people of Judah that if they flee to Egypt, "the sword you fear will overtake you there, and the famine you dread will follow on your heels into Egypt, and you will die there." This passage underscores the futility of attempting to escape God's decreed outcomes.

3. Blessings and Promises: Conversely, overtaking can also refer to the positive pursuit of blessings for those who are faithful. In Deuteronomy 28:2, it is written, "And all these blessings will come upon you and overtake you, if you will obey the voice of the LORD your God." Here, overtaking is used to illustrate the abundance and certainty of blessings that follow obedience to God.

4. Historical Narratives: In historical narratives, overtaking often describes the physical pursuit and capture of individuals or groups. For example, in Genesis 31:23, Laban overtakes Jacob after a seven-day pursuit: "So he took his relatives with him, pursued Jacob for seven days, and overtook him in the hill country of Gilead." This usage highlights the determination and urgency in the act of overtaking.

5. Metaphorical and Spiritual Implications: The concept of overtaking can also have metaphorical implications, representing the spiritual pursuit of righteousness or the inevitable consequences of sin. In Galatians 6:1, Paul advises, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." While the term "overtake" is not directly used, the idea of being caught or overtaken by sin is implicit, emphasizing the need for vigilance and mutual support within the Christian community.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the concept of overtaking in the Bible serves as a reminder of the certainty and inevitability of God's promises, whether they be blessings for obedience or curses for disobedience. It underscores the principle that actions have consequences, and that divine justice will ultimately prevail. The dual nature of overtaking—as both a positive and negative force—reflects the broader biblical theme of covenantal faithfulness and the moral order established by God.

In summary, "overtakest" in the biblical context is a multifaceted term that conveys the relentless pursuit of divine justice, the assuredness of God's blessings, and the physical and spiritual realities of pursuit and capture.

Concerning the Insurrection of Absalom against David and ...
... army, and be thine own general in this war, and do not trust its management to another;
then expect to conquer him with ease, when thou overtakest him openly ...
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Overtakest (1 Occurrence)
...Overtakest (1 Occurrence). ... follow after the men; and when thou overtakest them, thou
shalt say to them, Why have ye rewarded evil for good? (DBY). ...
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Overtakes (16 Occurrences)

/o/overtakes.htm - 11k

Overtaketh (6 Occurrences)

/o/overtaketh.htm - 8k

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