Who Was Bera in the Bible?
A King During the Time of the Patriarchs
Bera is a biblical figure mentioned briefly in Genesis 14:2, where he is identified as the king of Sodom during the time of the patriarchs. His name appears in the context of a significant event known as the War of the Kings, a coalition conflict involving multiple city-states in the region. Bera’s mention is sparse, with little detailed information about his reign or character. Nevertheless, his inclusion in the biblical narrative offers insights into the historical and political landscape of the time.
The War of the Kings
The War of the Kings, described in Genesis 14, was a conflict involving several city-state rulers in the region of the Dead Sea. The narrative details a coalition led by Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, who along with other allies, fought against a rebellious group of kings, including Bera of Sodom, Birsha of Gomorrah, Shinab of Admah, Shemeber of Zeboyim, and the king of Bela (Zoar). These rebellious kings had served Chedorlaomer for twelve years before rebelling in the thirteenth year.
In the ensuing conflict, Chedorlaomer’s coalition defeated the rebels and plundered their cities, taking captives and spoils, including Lot, Abram’s nephew, who was living in Sodom at the time (Genesis 14:11-12). Abram (later named Abraham), upon hearing of his nephew’s capture, assembled a group of trained men and pursued the invading kings. Abram successfully defeated them and rescued Lot, along with the other captives and goods (Genesis 14:14-16).
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Fragility of Worldly Power
Bera’s role as king of Sodom during the War of the Kings serves as a reminder of the fragility of worldly power and alliances. Despite his position and the coalition formed with neighboring kings, Bera and his allies were defeated by a more powerful force. This narrative highlights the transient nature of political and military power and the dangers of relying solely on such means for security and stability.
For modern Christians, this serves as a lesson on the importance of placing ultimate trust in God rather than in human institutions or alliances. It emphasizes the biblical teaching that true security and peace come from a relationship with God, rather than from worldly power or wealth. As the psalmist writes, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7).
The Role of Righteousness and Justice
Abram’s response to the capture of Lot demonstrates the importance of righteousness and justice. Despite the moral corruption associated with Sodom, as later highlighted in Genesis, Abram’s actions were driven by a sense of justice and familial loyalty. He did not hesitate to rescue his nephew, showing courage and commitment to what is right.
For Christians today, this underscores the call to act justly and to stand up for what is right, even in challenging or corrupt environments. It encourages believers to be agents of justice and righteousness, reflecting God’s character in their actions. This narrative also serves as a reminder of the need to intercede and assist those who are in distress or captivity, following Abram’s example.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty and Faithfulness
The account of Bera and the War of the Kings ultimately highlights God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. Abram’s victory over the coalition of kings, despite being outnumbered, illustrates God’s provision and protection for His people. This event also foreshadows the broader biblical theme of God delivering His people from captivity and oppression, a theme that recurs throughout the Scriptures.
This connection to God’s sovereignty is crucial for believers, reminding them that God is in control of history and the affairs of nations. Even in the midst of political turmoil and conflict, God’s purposes prevail. This assurance of God’s sovereignty encourages Christians to trust in His plans and timing, even when circumstances seem uncertain or threatening.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Foreshadowing of Christ’s Deliverance
The story of Abram’s rescue of Lot from the coalition of kings serves as a foreshadowing of Christ’s deliverance of humanity from sin and bondage. Just as Abram acted to rescue Lot, Jesus came to rescue humanity from the bondage of sin and death. This parallel highlights the theme of redemption and deliverance that runs throughout the Bible, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
For Christians, this connection emphasizes the importance of looking to Christ as the ultimate deliverer and savior. It encourages believers to trust in Jesus’ redemptive work and to recognize that, like Abram’s intervention, Christ’s actions were driven by love and a commitment to righteousness.
Conclusion
Bera, though a minor figure in the biblical narrative, represents a significant historical context within the story of the patriarchs. His role in the War of the Kings and the subsequent events involving Abram highlight the fragility of worldly power, the importance of righteousness and justice, and the sovereignty of God. For modern Christians, these lessons underscore the need to trust in God rather than in human power, to act justly, and to see Christ as the ultimate deliverer. Through these reflections, believers are encouraged to deepen their faith and commitment to living out God’s purposes in their lives.