(developed from Christ Precious, John Fawcett)
It is said that the Song of Solomon does not mention the name of God. As a result, some have doubted its place in the canon of scripture. Part of the objection to this view is the frequency of NT allusions to the short book. There are five instances at least in the gospels where Christ Himself refers to or alludes to the Song of Solomon
The first two allusions concern salvation. The apostle John describes the mystery of Gods work in calling us to Himself.
- ‘Take me away with you – let us hurry’ (Song 1.4) is echoed in John 6.44: ‘No-one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.’ The Song of Solomon context is of immature love, love that is being kindled, is just discovered. The wonderful discovery is that the initiative lies with the Father; He lights and kindles that love.
- ‘Awake, north wind, and come south wind! Blow upon my garden.’ (Song 4.16) is echoed in John 3.8; ‘the wind blows wherever it pleases.’ At any and every moment of life, we need God’s Spirit. John’s comment is in the context of being born again. Life from the Father is ‘delivered’ by the Holy Spirit.
- ‘At our very door is every delicacy, both new and old, that I have stored up for you.’ (Song 7.13) is echoed in Matt 13.52 ‘Therefore every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storehouse new treasures as well as old.’
Romans 7.12, 22 indicate that Paul had learned that he was delivered from law; yet He still delighted in the law in the inner man. He discovered and preached treasures both old and new. The teacher of the law has his/her thinking renewed by the message of the kingdom of heaven. So, we find everywhere in the Old Testament, prophecies and pre-figurements of Christ to thrill our hearts; we find wonderful illustrations of New Testament doctrine to strengthen our faith; we find nuggets of wisdom to flesh out the way of life in Christ Jesus.
The final two allusions are found in ‘future-themed’ parables; these look forward to circumstances surrounding Christ’s return. They reflect Christ’s call for discipleship in commitment and service. Such is our response to the love of God for us and the work of God’s Spirit in us.
- ‘He let out the vineyard to tenants.’ (Song 8.11) is echoed in Jesus’ parable in Luke 20.9; ‘A man planted a vineyard and rented it to some farmers.’ According to Kenneth Bailey, this parable should be called; ‘The parable of the compassionate employer.’ He comments that the central focus is not the employees, but the amazing compassion and grace of the employer. We are unable to comment on whether Solomon meets this high standard. (Solomon being the landlord/employer in Song 8).
- ‘I sleep, but my heart was awake’ (Song 5.2) is echoed in the parable of the wise and foolish virgins; ‘they all (the ten virgins) became drowsy and fell asleep.’ (Matt 25.5). Both scriptures point us to the groom’s imminent arrival. Christ is the one whom our soul loves and longs to be with. Any falling short is due to our lack or urgency and desire for Him.
May our hearts be thrilled afresh with the glorious person of Jesus Christ!