Did you notice that God repeats himself?
In the Bible, there are many places that say the same thing word for word.
~ Psalm 136 repeats the same phrase 26 times
~ Half of Obadiah is also found in Jeremiah 49
~ 1 Samuel 31 and 1 Chronicles 10 are essentially twins.
~ Speaking of 1 Chronicles, chapter 16 includes major portions of Psalm 96 and 105 – word for word.
~ At first glance Psalm 14 and Psalm 53 look like carbon copies (excepting one verse).
Then there are the repetitions that use slightly different wording but tell the same stories (yes, I am looking at you Matthew, Mark, and Luke).
Surely, you’ve noticed Paul teaches the same concepts in many of his epistles? (Ephesians and Colossians share a similar outline)
The Bible is not as big as you might think..
It is not merely an encyclopedia of knowledge; it is a teaching tool. Repetition is a great teacher. How many times do you sing the chorus in a song? The chorus is the most memorable.
Repetition is also a great witness to truth. Different writers recorded the same thing. They provide cross-references, individual testimony, and emphasis.
If you took out all the repetitions in the Bible, it would be a much smaller book, but would not teach as well.
Cherish every word of His book.
Cherish every word of His book.
Cherish every word of His book.
For your edification,
Justin “deja vu” Johnson