The term "The Great Cry" is often associated with significant moments of distress, divine intervention, or judgment in the biblical narrative. It is a phrase that captures the intensity of human emotion in response to God's actions or the unfolding of His divine plan. This entry explores the occurrences and implications of "The Great Cry" within the biblical context.

Exodus and the Plagues of Egypt

One of the most prominent instances of "The Great Cry" is found in the Book of Exodus during the tenth and final plague upon Egypt. This event marks a pivotal moment in the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. The Lord instructed Moses to warn Pharaoh of the impending death of every firstborn in Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh to the firstborn of the captive in the dungeon, and even the firstborn of the livestock (Exodus 11:4-5).

The fulfillment of this warning is recorded in Exodus 12:29-30 : "Now at midnight the LORD struck down every firstborn male in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on his throne to the firstborn of the captive who was in the dungeon, and the firstborn of all the livestock as well. During the night, Pharaoh got up, he and all his officials and all the Egyptians, and there was a great cry in Egypt, for there was no house without someone dead."

This "great cry" signifies the profound grief and despair that swept through Egypt as a result of God's judgment. It underscores the severity of the divine act and the fulfillment of God's promise to deliver His people from slavery.

The Fall of Jericho

Another significant moment involving a great cry is the fall of Jericho, as recorded in the Book of Joshua. The Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, were instructed by God to march around the city for seven days. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times, and at the sound of the trumpet, the people were to shout with a great shout.

Joshua 6:20 describes the event: "So when the trumpets sounded, the people shouted. And when they heard the blast of the trumpet, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. Then all the people charged straight into the city and captured it."

Here, the "great cry" is an expression of faith and obedience, resulting in a miraculous victory. It demonstrates the power of God working through His people when they act in accordance with His commands.

The Day of the Lord

In the prophetic literature, "The Great Cry" is often associated with the Day of the Lord, a time of divine judgment and cosmic upheaval. The prophets frequently describe this day as one of darkness, distress, and a great outcry from the nations.

Zephaniah 1:14-16 provides a vivid depiction: "The great Day of the LORD is near—near and coming quickly. Listen, the Day of the LORD! Then the cry of the mighty will be bitter. That day will be a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of destruction and desolation, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness, a day of trumpet blast and battle cry against the fortified cities, and against the high corner towers."

This prophetic "great cry" serves as a warning of the impending judgment and calls for repentance and humility before God.

Conclusion

The concept of "The Great Cry" in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing moments of divine judgment, human despair, and triumphant faith. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty, the seriousness of sin, and the hope of deliverance for those who trust in Him.