2 Corinthians 9:10 to Isaiah 55:10

NT Text: 2 Corinthians 9:10

OT Source(s):

• Isaiah 55:10 ("As the rain and snow come down from heaven and give seed to the sower and bread to the eater")

Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Reference Type: Allusion

Connection Method(s): Analogy + Longitudinal Theme

Significance: Paul alludes to Isaiah 55:10 in 2 Corinthians 9:10 — "He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food" (ho epichorēgōn sperma tō speironti kai arton eis brōsin). Isaiah's original metaphor describes God's word as effective like rain that waters the earth, giving "seed to the sower and bread to the eater" (zera' lazzorea' velekhem la'okel). Paul transfers the agricultural metaphor from the efficacy of God's word to the efficacy of God's provision for generosity: the same God who provides seed for physical sowing will "increase the harvest of your righteousness." The verbal correspondence is precise: both texts use the paired phrases "seed to the sower" and "bread for food/eating." Paul's application enriches the metaphor: just as God's word never returns void (Isa 55:11), so the resources God provides for generosity will produce an abundant harvest. This reflects the Wisdom tradition's confidence that God superintends the agricultural cycle of sowing and reaping in both material and spiritual economies.