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Commentary on 2 Kings 3 verses 20–27
I. We have here the divine gift of both those things which God had promised by Elisha - water and victory, and the former not only a pledge of the latter, but a means of it. God, who created, and commands, all the waters, both above and beneath the firmament, sent them an abundance of water on a sudden, which did them double service.
1.It relieved their armies, which were ready to perish, Kg2 3:20. And, which was very observable, this relief came just at the time of the offering of the morning sacrifice upon the altar at Jerusalem, a certain time, and universally known. That time Elisha chose for his hour of prayer (it is likely looking towards the temple, for so there were to do in their prayers when they were going out to battle and encamped at a distance, Kg1 8:44), in token of his communion with the temple-service, and his expectation of success by virtue of the great sacrifice. We now cannot pitch upon any hour more acceptable than another, because our high priest is always appearing for us, to present and plead his sacrifice. That time God chose for the hour of mercy to put an honour upon the daily sacrifice, which had been despised. God answered Daniel's prayer just at the time of the evening sacrifice (Dan 9:21); for he will acknowledge his own institutions.
2.It deceived their enemies, who were ready to triumph, into the destruction. Notice was given to the Moabites of the advances of the confederate army, to oppose which all that were able to put on armour were posted upon the frontiers, where they were ready to give the Israelites a warm reception (v. 21), promising themselves that it would be easy dealing with an army fatigued by so long a march through the wilderness of Edom. But see here,
(1.)How easily they were drawn into their own delusions. Observe the steps of their self-deceit. [1.] They saw the water in the valley where the army of Israel encamped, and conceited it was blood (Kg2 3:22), because they knew the valley to be dry, and (there having been no rain) could not imagine it should be water. The sun shone upon it, and probably the sky was red and lowering, a presage of foul weather that day (Mat 16:3), and so it proved to them. But, this making the water look red, their own fancies, which made them willing to believe what made for them, suggested, This is blood, God permitting them thus to impose upon themselves. [2.] If their camp was thus full of blood, they conclude, "Certainly the kings have fallen out (as confederates of different interests are apt to do) and they have slain one another (Kg2 3:23), for who else should slay them?" And, [3.] "If the armies have slain one another, we have nothing to do but to divide the prey. Now therefore, Moab, to the spoil." These were the gradual suggestions of some sanguine spirits among them, that thought themselves wiser and happier in their conjectures than their neighbours; and the rest, being desirous it should be so, were forward to believe it was so. Quod volumus facile credimus - What we wish we readily believe. Thus those that are to be destroyed are first deceived (Rev 20:8), and none are so effectually deceived as those that deceive themselves.
(2.)How fatally they thereby ran upon their own destruction. They rushed carelessly into the camp of Israel, to plunder it, but were undeceived when it was too late. The Israelites, animated by the assurances Elisha had given them of victory, fell upon them with the utmost fury, routed them, and pursued them into their own country (Kg2 3:24), which they laid waste (Kg2 3:25), destroyed the cities, marred the ground, stopped up the wells, felled the timber, and left only the royal city standing, in the walls of which they made great breaches with their battering engines. This they got by rebelling against Israel. Who ever hardened his heart against God and prospered?
II. In the close of the chapter we are told what the king of Moab did when he found himself reduced to the last extremity by the besiegers, and that his capital city was likely to fall into their hands. 1. He attempted that which was bold and brave. he got together 700 choice men, and with them sallied out upon the intrenchments of the king of Edom, who, being but a mercenary in this expedition, would not, he hoped, make any great resistance if vigorously attacked, and so he might make his escape that way. But it would not do; even the king of Edom proved too hard for him, and obliged him to retire, Kg2 3:26. 2. This failing, he did that which was brutish and barbarous; he took his own son, his eldest son, that was to succeed him, than whom nothing could be more dear to himself and his people, and offered him for a burnt-offering upon the wall, Kg2 3:27. He designed by this, (1.) To obtain the favour of Chemosh his god, which, being a devil, delighted in blood and murder, and the destruction of mankind. The dearer any thing was to them the more acceptable those idolaters thought it must needs be if offered in sacrifice to their gods, and therefore burnt their children in the fire to their honour. (2.) To terrify the besiegers, and oblige them to retire. Therefore he did it upon the wall, in their sight, that they might see what desperate courses he resolved to take rather than surrender, and how dearly he would sell his city and life. He intended hereby to render them odious, and to exasperate and enrage his own subjects against them. This effect it had: There was great indignation against Israel for driving him to this extremity, whereupon they raised the siege and returned. Tender and generous spirits will not do that, though just, which will drive any man distracted, or make him desperate.
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SUMMARY
Second Kings 3:21 powerfully depicts the immediate and total mobilization of the Moabite forces upon learning of the invading allied armies of Israel, Judah, and Edom. This verse serves as a pivotal moment, transitioning from the allied kings' divinely provided sustenance to Moab's desperate and comprehensive call to arms, gathering every able-bodied individual, and strategically positioning them at their border to confront the perceived existential threat.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey the gravity and urgency of the situation. The immediate and comprehensive response of the Moabites underscores the theme of Urgency and National Unity in the face of a common, overwhelming enemy. The phrase "all that were able to put on armour, and upward" functions as a form of Merism or Hyperbole, emphasizing the totality and desperation of the mobilization by encompassing the entire spectrum of potential fighters, from the youngest capable to the oldest. There is also a strong element of Dramatic Irony at play; while Moab's human preparations are formidable and seemingly exhaustive, the reader, having just witnessed Elisha's prophecy of divine victory for Israel (2 Kings 3:18-19), understands that these human efforts will ultimately prove futile against God's sovereign plan. This sets up a profound Contrast between human strength and divine power, foreshadowing the inevitable outcome.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Moabites' swift and comprehensive mobilization in 2 Kings 3:21 vividly illustrates a universal human response to perceived threats: the instinct to defend what is cherished and to prepare for conflict with every available resource. While this is a military account, it carries broader theological implications concerning human agency, preparedness, and the ultimate sovereignty of God. The verse showcases the diligence and determination of a people facing an existential crisis, highlighting their reliance on their own strength and numbers, a common human tendency. However, within the larger narrative of 2 Kings 3, this formidable human effort stands in stark contrast to the divine intervention that ultimately determines the outcome, reminding us that while human preparation is often necessary and prudent, ultimate victory and deliverance belong to the Lord, who can work through or despite human efforts.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Moabites' response in 2 Kings 3:21 serves as a powerful illustration of vigilance and comprehensive preparedness in the face of an imminent threat. They did not passively wait for the enemy to penetrate deep into their heartland; instead, they mobilized every available person and strategically positioned themselves at the border. For believers, this ancient military account offers profound spiritual lessons. We are called to be spiritually vigilant, acutely aware of the unseen battles that rage for our souls, for the integrity of our faith, and for the advancement of God's kingdom. Just as Moab marshaled its forces with extreme urgency, we are exhorted to "put on the full armor of God" (Ephesians 6:11) and to stand firm against the cunning schemes of the enemy. Our "border" might be the boundary of our faith, the purity of our hearts, the sanctity of our families, the truth of the Gospel, or the witness of our lives. This verse challenges us to consider the seriousness with which we approach spiritual warfare and our readiness to defend the territory God has entrusted to us, not in our own strength, but in reliance upon His power and provision.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Moab gather "all that were able to put on armour, and upward"?
Answer: The phrase "and upward" indicates an unusually comprehensive and desperate conscription. In ancient warfare, armies typically consisted of men within a specific age range (e.g., 20-50 years old). By including those "and upward," it implies that the Moabites were mobilizing not only their standard fighting force but also older men who might otherwise be exempt, or even younger individuals who were physically capable of bearing arms. This highlights the extreme urgency and the perceived existential threat posed by the allied kings of Israel, Judah, and Edom. It was a total national effort, demonstrating their resolve to defend their sovereignty at all costs, even if it meant deploying every possible combatant. This desperate measure underscores the gravity of the situation and their determination to resist the invasion.
What was the significance of the Moabites "standing in the border"?
Answer: "Standing in the border" signifies a proactive and strategic defensive posture. Rather than allowing the invading armies to penetrate deep into their territory, causing widespread destruction and demoralization, the Moabites chose to meet them at the frontier. This served several crucial purposes: it aimed to prevent the enemy from devastating their heartland, to demonstrate their unwavering resolve and deter further advance, and to engage the enemy on ground that might be more advantageous for defense. It reflects a determined and immediate response to protect their national integrity and sovereignty from the very first point of contact, underscoring the gravity of the invasion and their commitment to national defense.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Kings 3:21 describes a human military mobilization, its underlying themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The Moabites gathered every able-bodied person, relying on their own strength and numbers to defend against an overwhelming threat. This mirrors humanity's fallen tendency to rely on its own efforts, wisdom, and strength in the face of the ultimate enemies: sin, death, and the spiritual forces of evil. However, unlike Moab's ultimately futile human efforts against a divinely empowered force, Christ's victory is absolute and complete. He is the true "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29), who, by His perfect life, sacrificial death on the cross (Philippians 2:8), and glorious resurrection (Romans 4:25), has decisively disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities (Colossians 2:15) and triumphed over death itself (1 Corinthians 15:57). We, as believers, are not called to "gather all that are able to put on armour" in our own strength to fight for salvation or to earn God's favor, but rather to stand firm in the victory Christ has already secured for us (Ephesians 2:8-9). Our "armor" is not of human making, but the spiritual armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), which is put on by faith in Him and enables us to stand in the triumph He has already achieved, guarding the "border" of our lives with His truth, righteousness, and peace, empowered by His Spirit.