Topical Encyclopedia The term "flattens" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of flattening or making level is present in various passages, often symbolizing the removal of obstacles or the preparation for something significant. In biblical literature, flattening can be associated with divine intervention, judgment, or preparation for the coming of the Lord.Biblical Context and Symbolism 1. Preparation for the Lord: One of the most notable uses of the concept of flattening is found in the prophetic literature, particularly in the context of preparing the way for the Lord. Isaiah 40:3-4 states, "A voice of one calling: 'Prepare the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill made low; the uneven ground will become smooth, and the rugged land a plain.'" This passage, later echoed in the Gospels (e.g., Matthew 3:3), emphasizes the removal of physical and spiritual obstacles to facilitate the coming of the Messiah. 2. Divine Judgment and Restoration: The imagery of flattening is also used in the context of divine judgment and restoration. In Isaiah 42:15 , God declares, "I will lay waste the mountains and hills and dry up all their vegetation; I will turn the rivers into dry land and dry up the pools." Here, the flattening of the landscape signifies God's power to judge and transform the natural world as part of His redemptive plan. 3. Symbol of Humility and Equality: The act of flattening can symbolize the humbling of the proud and the exaltation of the humble. In the Magnificat, Mary proclaims in Luke 1:52 , "He has brought down rulers from their thrones, but has exalted the humble." This reflects the biblical theme of God leveling the social and spiritual playing field, where the proud are brought low, and the humble are lifted. 4. Spiritual Application: In a spiritual sense, flattening can represent the believer's journey of sanctification, where God removes the "mountains" of sin and pride, making the path straight for a closer walk with Him. Proverbs 3:6 encourages believers, "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." Theological Implications The concept of flattening in the Bible underscores God's sovereignty and His active role in shaping both the physical and spiritual realms. It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance and preparation for the Lord's coming, as well as the assurance of God's ultimate justice and restoration. The imagery of flattening challenges believers to examine their own lives, removing obstacles that hinder their relationship with God and embracing the humility required to walk in His ways. Library The Source of Power A Young Man's Wise Choice Op Wisdom Thesaurus Flattens (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Flattens (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 32:19 Though hail flattens the forest, and the city is leveled completely. (WEB NIV). ... /f/flattens.htm - 6k Flatter (5 Occurrences) Leveled (4 Occurrences) Flats (1 Occurrence) Hail (42 Occurrences) Forest (67 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Flattens (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 32:19 Subtopics Related Terms |
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