The Meaning of 'It Shall Be Done' in Biblical Contexts

The phrase it shall be done is found multiple times throughout the Bible, and its context and implications are often misunderstood. This article aims to clarify the meaning and significance of this phrase, exploring its various appearances in the Bible and their broader implications.

Introduction

The phrase it shall be done is a common expression in the Bible, often used to convey the idea that a church or God's will is carried out. It is frequently misinterpreted as a guarantee for any prayer request made, but in truth, it has a more specific and profound meaning.

The Biblical Context and Purpose

Mat 18:17

And if he refuses to hear them tell [it] to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector. Assuredly I say to you whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name I am there in the midst of them.

This passage is often taken out of context, particularly the idea that if three pray about anything, God will do it. The context is about discipline within the church. It suggests that if two or three leaders agree on a disciplinary action, God is in agreement with them due to their spiritual maturity.

The Spiritual Foundation and Divine Decree

Lamentations 3:37

Who can speak and have it happen if the Lord has not decreed it

1 Sam 3:19

The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up and he let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground.

Matt 18:19

Again I say unto you That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

Matt 21:21

Verily I say unto you If ye have faith and doubt not ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree but also if ye shall say unto this mountain Be thou removed and be thou cast into the sea it shall be done.

Joh 15:7

If ye abide in me and my words abide in you ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done unto you.

The phrase it shall be done in these passages indicates that God's decrees and word are final and unchangeable. It reflects the idea that whatever God speaks is already accomplished in the spiritual realm. The realization of these decrees is contingent upon human faith, agreement, and action.

The Role of Faith and Divine Agreements

God's covenant with humanity is based on faith and action. In both church discipline and other contexts, the phrase it shall be done emphasizes the importance of faith and divine alignment. It underscores the idea that God's will is accomplished when His people unite in spiritual agreement and faith.

Ezra 9:12

And the king said unto Esther the queen The Jews have slain and destroyed five hundred men in Shushan the palace and the ten sons of Haman what have they done in the rest of the kings provinces now what is thy petition and it shall be granted thee:

Obadiah 1:15

For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen as thou hast done it shall be done unto thee thy reward shall return upon thine own head.

In these passages, the phrase it shall be done is a prophecy or a declaration of retribution and justice. It speaks to the principle of divine retribution where consequences are borne by those who have sinned, mirroring the severity of God's judgments.

Conclusion

The phrase it shall be done encapsulates the essence of God's sovereignty and the importance of faith in the accomplishment of His will. It reminds us that when God speaks, His word is already accomplished in the spiritual realm, and the realization of that word is dependent on human cooperation and faith.

Key Differences

The phrase it shall be done is not a blanket guarantee for every prayer. It speaks to the divine covenant and the spiritual alignment necessary for God's will to be manifested. It emphasizes the role of faith, divine agreements, and the importance of spiritual maturity in the accomplishment of God's will.

Final Thoughts

To fully understand the phrase it shall be done in the Bible, it is crucial to consider the context in which it appears. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty, the importance of faith, and the spiritual significance of human action in bringing about God's will.