Definition: Because they obeyed not the voice of the LORD their God, but transgressed his covenant, [and] all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded, and would not hear [them], nor do [them].
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 18:12. It’s a really important and sobering passage about disobedience. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Story: This verse comes from the Book of Kings in the Old Testament. It describes a serious situation that happened when the people of Israel, led by King David, disobeyed God’s instructions. What Happened? Moses Ordered Something: Moses, who was God's servant, gave instructions to the Israelites – specifically, to not kill any animals (including birds and fish) in the water. He told them to be careful about what they ate. They Disobeyed: The people ignored those instructions. They refused to listen to Moses’s warnings. The Covenant Was Broken: A “covenant” is basically a promise or agreement between God and humanity. This covenant was a specific rule set by God for the Israelites – it protected them and gave them a way to live in peace. They Didn't Follow Further Commands: Moses also gave further instructions about what they should do, like not eating certain animals. They simply didn’t follow these commands. What Does It Mean? This verse essentially says: "Because they weren't listening to God and didn't honor his rules, he made a big mistake." It highlights that disobeying God leads to consequences – often negative ones. The Key Takeaway: It’s a warning about the importance of obeying God’s commands. It emphasizes that obedience is essential for maintaining a good relationship with God and avoiding punishment or disaster. --- Let's summarize it in a few key points: Disobedience = Problem: Ignoring God’s instructions causes problems. Covenant is Sacred: The covenant between God and the people was important, and breaking it has consequences. God's Watchful Eye: This verse reminds us that God is always watching and keeping a close eye on his people. Do you want me to: Explain any of this in more detail? Give you some examples of how disobedience can lead to problems?