What Was Sur in the Bible?
Sur in Jerusalem
Sur is a location mentioned in the Bible, specifically in 2 Kings 11:6. The Hebrew word for Sur is סוּר (Strong’s Concordance H5495). This place is identified as a specific location in Jerusalem, which holds a significant role in the biblical narrative. In 2 Kings 11:6, Sur is mentioned in the context of a critical event involving the protection of the king. The verse reads, “And another third shall be at the gate Sur, and a third at the gate behind the guard. You shall take turns guarding the house” (2 Kings 11:6, ESV).
Historical and Geographical Context
Jerusalem is a city of immense importance in biblical history. It is the city where God chose to place His name and where many pivotal events in both the Old and New Testaments occurred. The context of 2 Kings 11 is during the reign of Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, who seized power in Judah and attempted to destroy all the royal heirs. However, Joash, the son of Ahaziah, was hidden by his aunt Jehosheba in the temple of the Lord for six years. When Joash was seven years old, Jehoiada the priest organized a coup to dethrone Athaliah and crown Joash as king.
In this context, Sur was a strategic location within Jerusalem where guards were stationed to ensure the safety of the young king Joash and to facilitate the successful transition of power. The precise location of Sur within Jerusalem is not definitively known, but it was significant enough to be mentioned in this critical narrative of protecting the Davidic line.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of God’s Protection
The story involving Sur in 2 Kings 11 highlights the importance of God’s protection over His chosen ones. Just as Joash was protected and hidden in the temple, Christians today can find solace in the fact that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). This narrative reassures believers of God’s providential care and His ability to safeguard His purposes against any threat.
The Role of Faithful Servants
Jehoiada the priest played a crucial role in protecting Joash and orchestrating the coup against Athaliah. His faithfulness and courage ensured the survival of the Davidic line. Modern Christians are reminded of the importance of being faithful servants of God, standing firm in their convictions, and acting courageously to uphold righteousness and justice (1 Corinthians 4:2).
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness to His Promises
The narrative involving Sur and the protection of Joash underscores God’s faithfulness to His promises. Despite Athaliah’s attempts to destroy the royal line, God preserved the heir, ensuring the continuity of David’s lineage as He had promised. This demonstrates that God’s plans cannot be thwarted, and He remains faithful to His word (2 Samuel 7:16).
God’s Sovereignty in Human Affairs
The protection of Joash and the strategic placement of guards at Sur illustrate God’s sovereignty in human affairs. Even in times of political turmoil and danger, God’s hand was evident in guiding and protecting His people. This encourages Christians today to trust in God’s sovereignty, knowing that He is in control of all circumstances (Romans 8:28).
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Preservation of the Messianic Line
The story of Joash’s protection is directly connected to the Messianic line, from which Jesus Christ, the Savior, would come. The preservation of Joash ensured the continuation of David’s lineage, fulfilling God’s promise that the Messiah would come from the house of David (Isaiah 11:1). This reinforces the idea that God’s redemptive plan, culminating in Jesus Christ, was meticulously orchestrated throughout history.
Jesus as Our Protector
Just as Joash was protected in the temple, Jesus Christ is our ultimate protector. He intercedes for us and guards us against spiritual dangers. Believers can take comfort in knowing that Jesus is our Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep (John 10:11), providing both physical and spiritual protection.
Conclusion
Sur, mentioned in 2 Kings 11:6, serves as a significant location within the broader narrative of Jerusalem’s history. Understanding its role in the protection of Joash enriches our comprehension of God’s providential care and faithfulness. This narrative offers valuable lessons for modern Christians, emphasizing trust in God’s protection, the importance of faithful service, and the assurance of God’s sovereign control over human affairs. Additionally, it highlights the continuity of God’s redemptive plan through the preservation of the Messianic line, ultimately leading to the coming of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Protector.