Topical Bible: Jerusalem: (Its Strong Position) of Saints Under God's Protection

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Jerusalem, often referred to as the "City of David" and the "Holy City," holds a significant place in biblical history and theology. It is not only the geographical and political center of ancient Israel but also a spiritual stronghold for the people of God. Throughout the Scriptures, Jerusalem is depicted as a city under divine protection, a sanctuary for the saints, and a symbol of God's enduring covenant with His people.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently emphasizes Jerusalem's strong position and divine protection. In Psalm 125:2 , it is written, "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds His people, both now and forevermore." This imagery underscores the city's natural fortifications and the spiritual security provided by God. The surrounding mountains serve as a metaphor for God's encompassing presence, offering protection and stability to His people.

Jerusalem's significance is further highlighted in the prophetic literature. In Isaiah 31:5 , the prophet declares, "Like birds hovering overhead, so the LORD of Hosts will protect Jerusalem; He will shield it and deliver it; He will pass over and preserve it." This passage illustrates God's active role in safeguarding the city, likening His protection to that of a vigilant guardian.

Historical Context

Historically, Jerusalem has been a focal point of conflict and divine intervention. The city's strategic location made it a coveted prize for various empires, yet it often withstood sieges and attacks due to its formidable defenses and, more importantly, God's providential care. The accounts of King Hezekiah's reign, particularly during the Assyrian siege, exemplify this divine protection. In 2 Kings 19:34 , God promises, "I will defend this city and save it for My sake and for the sake of David My servant."

Theological Significance

Theologically, Jerusalem represents more than just a physical location; it symbolizes the spiritual stronghold of God's people. It is the place where the Temple stood, the center of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. In the New Testament, Jerusalem continues to hold spiritual significance as the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, pivotal events in Christian salvation history.

Moreover, the Book of Revelation envisions a New Jerusalem, descending from heaven as a culmination of God's redemptive plan (Revelation 21:2). This eschatological vision reinforces the idea of Jerusalem as an eternal city of refuge and divine protection for the saints.

Conclusion

Jerusalem's strong position, both physically and spiritually, is a testament to God's unwavering protection and faithfulness to His covenant people. It serves as a powerful reminder of the security and peace found under God's care. As believers reflect on Jerusalem's role in biblical history, they are encouraged to trust in God's promises and seek refuge in His eternal protection, assured that, like Jerusalem, they are surrounded by His enduring presence.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 125:2
As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from now on even for ever.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Interpretation of Prophecy.
... shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar ... on the throne of David
at Jerusalem for a ... The arguments relied on by its advocates are drawn in ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxviii interpretation of prophecy.htm

Hillis -- God the Unwearied Guide
... about every home as the mountains are round about Jerusalem, for bounty ... Remember
God is strong. ... as the hawk drives the young lark or nightingale from its nest? ...
/.../various/the worlds great sermons volume 10/hillis god the unwearied.htm

It is a Ground for Thanksgiving that During the Last Three or Four ...
... be saved) God shall send them strong delusion that ... as also his final attack upon
Jerusalem and his ... when the Great Tribulation with all its attendant horrors ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the antichrist/it is a ground for.htm

His Unconscious Preparation for his Work
... The decision may have been due to his father's strong religious views, or his mother's ...
While Jerusalem around them was going on in its ordinary course of ...
/.../stalker/the life of st paul/chapter ii his unconscious preparation.htm

Scriptural Types.
... gospel dispensation has produced a strong reaction, leading ... was carried into the
sanctuary, its body typically ... true holy city, the heavenly Jerusalem, which he ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxvii scriptural types.htm

Peter Stood Up.
... men and blessed Doorkeeper of the heavenly Jerusalem was bidden ... Hence he experienced
a strong opposition from the monks ... the monks on his adherence to its decrees ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter iii peter stood up.htm

The Preacher as a Patriot.
... to evangelize the world, to begin at Jerusalem.[20 ... If the causes remain as strong
as ever, new victims ... sentiment, not by its smallness, but by its largeness and ...
/.../stalker/the preacher and his models/lecture iii the preacher as.htm

The Second vision "On Earth"
... It may well be the "strong angel" of chap ... Jewish sympathies for the literal temple
and its ritual" (Stuart ... this must refer to the temple of Jerusalem," though he ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the second vision on earth.htm

The Gospel Refuge.
... God "took" them, "We HAVE a strong city; salvation ... of the happy citizens of the New
Jerusalem: Patriarchs, prophets ... who are now safe within its gates, watching ...
/.../macduff/the cities of refuge or the name of jesus/iii the gospel refuge.htm

The Royal Pair in their Glorious Chariot
... thereof being paved with love, for the daughters of Jerusalem. ... is ended, and the
morning with its glorious dawn has ... the man whom God will make strong to rebuke ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 8 1863/the royal pair in their.htm