Topical Bible: Mortar: A Cement: Untempered, not Enduring

◄ Mortar: A Cement: Untempered, not Enduring ►

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In biblical times, mortar was a crucial building material used to bind stones or bricks together, forming a cohesive structure. The term "mortar" is often used metaphorically in the Scriptures to illustrate spiritual truths, particularly in the context of integrity and endurance.

Biblical References:

1. Ezekiel 13:10-15 (BSB): The prophet Ezekiel uses the imagery of untempered mortar to describe the false prophets of Israel who led the people astray with deceptive visions and false assurances. "Because they have led My people astray, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace, and because when a flimsy wall is built, they plaster it with whitewash, tell those who plaster it with whitewash that it will fall. There will be a deluge of rain, and I will send hailstones plunging down, and a windstorm will burst forth. Surely when the wall has fallen, you will not be asked, ‘Where is the whitewash with which you covered it?’ Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I will unleash a windstorm in My wrath; and in My anger, torrents of rain and hailstones will fall with destructive fury. I will tear down the wall you have plastered with whitewash and level it to the ground, so that its foundation is exposed. It will fall, and you will be destroyed within it. Then you will know that I am the LORD. So I will vent My wrath against the wall and against those who plaster it with whitewash. I will say to you: ‘The wall is gone, and so are those who whitewashed it.’"

In this passage, the "untempered mortar" symbolizes the false security and superficial teachings that lack the strength and truth of God's word. The wall, built with such inadequate materials, is destined to collapse under pressure, illustrating the inevitable downfall of those who rely on deceit rather than divine truth.

2. Ezekiel 22:28 (BSB): Further emphasizing the theme, Ezekiel again condemns the false prophets: "Her prophets plastered them with whitewash, seeing false visions and divining lies to them, saying, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says,’ when the LORD has not spoken." The use of "whitewash" here is akin to untempered mortar, representing the superficial and deceptive nature of their prophecies.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In the biblical context, mortar represents the binding force that holds a structure together. When it is "untempered," it lacks the necessary components to endure, much like teachings or beliefs that are not grounded in the truth of God's word. The imagery serves as a warning against false teachings and the importance of building one's life on the solid foundation of Scripture.

The metaphor of untempered mortar challenges believers to examine the foundations of their faith and the teachings they follow. Just as a physical structure requires strong, enduring materials to withstand external pressures, so too does one's spiritual life require the truth and integrity found in God's word to endure trials and challenges.

Practical Application:

For the believer, the concept of untempered mortar serves as a call to discernment and vigilance. It encourages a commitment to sound doctrine and a rejection of teachings that may appear appealing but lack biblical substance. By grounding one's faith in the enduring truth of Scripture, believers can ensure that their spiritual "walls" are built to withstand the storms of life.

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Ezekiel 22:28
And her prophets have daubed them with untempered mortar, seeing vanity, and divining lies to them, saying, Thus said the Lord GOD, when the LORD has not spoken.
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