Definition: And the LORD said not that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven: but he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam the son of Joash.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 14:27. It’s a really interesting and slightly surprising one! Here's what it means in plain language: Basically, God isn’t punishing Israel for something they did. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “The LORD said not that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven…” – This is a bit tricky. “Blot out” usually means to erase or completely remove something. God wasn't saying he wanted to take away Israel's identity, meaning their name. It’s like saying he didn’t want to change what they were called. "...but he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam the son of Joash." – This is the key part! Jeroboam was a king who was known for being rebellious and trying to do things differently than the rest of Israel. God chose him, specifically , to be instrumental in protecting Israel from disaster. So, what does this mean? It suggests that God’s plan wasn't just about letting Israel drift or face hardship on its own. He actively intervened and provided a safeguard – Jeroboam – to help them survive. It's a story of divine providence working through a human leader. The Context is Important: This verse is part of a larger story about the kingdom of Israel and its relationship with God. It’s often interpreted as a reminder that God works in mysterious ways, and sometimes, even those who seem like enemies can be involved in protecting what He has chosen. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Discuss the role of Jeroboam in more detail? Give you some different interpretations of the verse?