In theology there is always a reason for repetition. Certainly in the Hebrew language numerical value of the letters does sometimes apply to the full meaning. However the numbering of chapters and verses in our modern publications are probably arbitrary. It is easy to read into the theology one's own impressions and meanings, which is only human. However, one reason to compare scripture with scripture is to eliminate human error.
"However the numbering of chapters and verses in our modern publications are probably arbitrary. It is easy to read into the theology one's own impressions and meanings, which is only human. However, one reason to compare scripture with scripture is to eliminate human error."
I agree that it can be arbitrary but it happened so many times - where the meaning of the number of the verse coincides with the meaning of that particular verse. I questioned the numbering of scripture, chapters, etc. and went to Wikipedia. I'm sure there is a better source but they were a quick reference.
"In the New Testament, the verse divisions were first
added by Robert Estienne in his 1551 edition of the
Greek New testament. In 1557, the first English New
Testament with verse divisions were used in a
translation by William Whittingham (c. 1524-1579). These
divisions have been used by nearly all English Bibles
since then. Unlike the Hebrew of the Old Testament, the
structure of the Greek language makes it highly
susceptible to being broken up syntactically into
inappropriate and even sense-contrary divisions. Inexact
apportionment of Greek into verses therefore could
easily have obscured the intent, relation, emphasis and
force of the words themselves, and thus elicited the
most strenuous objections of theologians. The retention
of Robert Estienne's verse divisions essentially without
alteration is a tribute not only to the inherent utility
of his contribution to Bible study, but also to his
excellent knowledge of the scriptures and grasp of the
fine points of the ancient Greek language. The first
Bible in English to use both chapters and verses was the
Geneva Bible in 1560, coming soon after Estienne's
introduction of New Testament verse numbers, and quickly
rising to acceptance as a standard way to notate them."
So, the verses were placed in that order long ago and the King James is still in that order. (Another coincidence - the original King James was the 7th Bible, #7 meaning spiritual perfection)
The gematria of names is important too. The name Jesus makes the numbers 888. The #8 denotes resurrection, regeneration, a new beginning or commencement.
You could be right in that I'm reading my own theories into this but it just seems past the odds of coincidence.
Of course, I also believe in the Bible Code so this was just a small step for me. It feels like one of God's little miracles for us, a sign to strengthen faith. But, as you say, comparing scripture to scripture, is the most important process.
Thank you so much for your insights!