Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: In biblical terms, "overrunning" often refers to the act of overwhelming or flooding over a particular area, people, or situation. This concept can be both literal, as in the case of waters or armies, and metaphorical, representing the overwhelming force of God's judgment or the spread of sin. Biblical Instances: 1. Military Conquests: The Bible frequently uses the imagery of overrunning to describe military conquests. In the Old Testament, the Israelites experienced both sides of this phenomenon. For example, when God delivered the Promised Land into their hands, they were instructed to overrun the Canaanite cities (Joshua 6:20-21). Conversely, when Israel turned away from God, they were overrun by foreign powers as a form of divine judgment (Judges 6:1-6). 2. Divine Judgment: Overrunning is also used to depict God's judgment against nations and peoples. In Isaiah 8:7-8, the prophet warns of the Assyrian invasion, describing it as an overflowing river that will "sweep on into Judah, it will overflow and pass through, reaching even to the neck." This vivid imagery underscores the totality and inevitability of God's judgment when His people are unfaithful. 3. Natural Disasters: The concept of overrunning can also be seen in the context of natural disasters, such as floods. In Genesis 7:17-24, the floodwaters during Noah's time overran the earth as a judgment against humanity's wickedness. This event serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the consequences of sin. 4. Spiritual Overrunning: On a spiritual level, overrunning can symbolize the pervasive nature of sin or false teachings. In 2 Timothy 2:16-18, Paul warns against godless chatter, which "will spread like gangrene." This metaphorical overrunning highlights the destructive potential of allowing sin or heresy to go unchecked within the community of believers. Theological Implications: · God's Sovereignty: The concept of overrunning in the Bible often emphasizes God's control over nations and nature. Whether through military conquest or natural disaster, God's purposes are ultimately fulfilled, demonstrating His supreme authority. · Judgment and Mercy: While overrunning often signifies judgment, it also serves as a call to repentance. The Bible consistently shows that God's desire is for His people to turn back to Him, and He provides opportunities for restoration and mercy. · Vigilance Against Sin: The metaphorical use of overrunning as it pertains to sin and false teachings serves as a warning to believers to remain vigilant. The spread of sin can be swift and destructive, necessitating a proactive stance in maintaining doctrinal purity and personal holiness. Conclusion: The theme of overrunning in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing physical, spiritual, and moral dimensions. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty, the reality of His judgment, and the need for vigilance in the life of faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Overrun.Library Jeremiah Nahum's Doom of Nineveh Editor's Preface. Introduction to the Letter to a Young Widow. Josephus Makes an Attempt Upon Sepphoris but is Repelled. Titus ... Book 11 Footnotes The Apostasy in Two Days. To Olympias. Why do You Lament? Why do You Belabour Yourself... Introduction. The Princesses of the Comneni Thesaurus Overrunning (5 Occurrences)...Overrunning (5 Occurrences). ... (BBE). Judges 20:37 And the watchers, rushing on Gibeah and overrunning it, put all the town to the sword without mercy. (BBE). ... /o/overrunning.htm - 8k Overrun (4 Occurrences) Over-running (1 Occurrence) Watchers (16 Occurrences) Rushing (61 Occurrences) Abel-cheramim (1 Occurrence) Frequently (28 Occurrences) Gomor'rah (23 Occurrences) Remainder (33 Occurrences) Crushed (199 Occurrences) Resources What is the Presbyterian Church (USA), and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.orgOverrunning: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Overrunning (5 Occurrences)Judges 11:33 Judges 20:37 2 Kings 13:20 Nahum 1:8 Zephaniah 2:9 Subtopics Related Terms |