Topical Bible: Earthquakes: Frequently Accompanied by Convulsion and Receding of the Sea

◄ Earthquakes: Frequently Accompanied by Convulsion and Receding of the Sea ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, earthquakes are often depicted as manifestations of divine power and judgment. They serve as both literal and symbolic events, illustrating God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to intervene in the natural order. Earthquakes in the Bible are frequently accompanied by dramatic natural phenomena, including the convulsion and receding of the sea, which further emphasize their significance as acts of God.

Biblical Instances and Symbolism

One of the most notable instances of an earthquake in the Bible is found in the account of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 27:51-54 , it is recorded: "At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked, and the rocks were split. The tombs broke open, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised. After Jesus’ resurrection, when they had come out of the tombs, they entered the holy city and appeared to many people. When the centurion and those with him guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified and exclaimed, 'Truly this was the Son of God!'" This earthquake signifies the profound impact of Christ's death, marking a pivotal moment in salvation history.

In the Old Testament, earthquakes are often associated with the presence and revelation of God. In Exodus 19:18 , during the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, "Mount Sinai was completely enveloped in smoke, because the LORD had descended on it in fire. The smoke rose like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked violently." Here, the earthquake underscores the holiness and power of God as He establishes His covenant with Israel.

Convulsion and Receding of the Sea

The convulsion and receding of the sea are phenomena that can accompany earthquakes, adding to their dramatic and awe-inspiring nature. While the Bible does not explicitly describe the receding of the sea in conjunction with earthquakes, the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14 can be seen as a related miraculous event. In this account, God uses natural forces to deliver the Israelites from the pursuing Egyptian army. Exodus 14:21 states, "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided."

The imagery of the sea convulsing and receding is also present in prophetic literature, where it symbolizes chaos and divine intervention. In Nahum 1:4-5 , the prophet declares, "He rebukes the sea and dries it up; He makes all the rivers run dry. Bashan and Carmel wither; even the flower of Lebanon withers. The mountains quake before Him, and the hills melt away; the earth trembles at His presence—the world and all its dwellers." This passage highlights God's control over the natural world and His ability to bring about judgment.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, earthquakes and their associated phenomena serve as reminders of God's omnipotence and the transient nature of the created order. They are often seen as precursors to divine judgment or as signs of the end times. In Matthew 24:7 , Jesus warns of future events, saying, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places." Such occurrences are interpreted as part of the birth pains leading to the fulfillment of God's ultimate plan for humanity.

In summary, earthquakes in the Bible are powerful symbols of God's presence and action in the world. They are frequently accompanied by other natural phenomena, such as the convulsion and receding of the sea, which serve to magnify their impact and underscore the divine authority over creation. Through these events, believers are called to recognize the majesty of God and the unfolding of His divine purposes.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 22:8,16
Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations of heaven moved and shook, because he was wroth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 18:7,15
Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook