Definition: I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up [that which was] broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 34:16. It's a pretty complex passage, but we can understand it in simpler terms. Here’s what it essentially means: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about God’s plan for those who have strayed or been hurt – and for those who are struggling with their own weaknesses. It’s about redemption and restoration. Here's a breakdown of each part: “I will seek that which was lost…” : This suggests that there is something important, perhaps a mistake, a broken trust, or a loss of something valuable – something God considers important. “…and bring again that which was driven away…” : This means that God wants to restore what has been damaged or abandoned. It’s about bringing back what was once good or healthy. “And will bind up [that which was] broken…” : This is a metaphorical image of healing. It suggests repairing something that's been damaged – perhaps a person’s spirit, a relationship, or a situation. “…and strengthen that which was sick…” : This means God intends to help those who are struggling with their own weakness or problems, and restore them to a healthier state. “but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment” : This is the most challenging part. It suggests that God will take away the things that are excessively powerful or dominant – those who are self-centered, arrogant, or in control. He will use this “judgment” to guide them towards a better path. It's not necessarily about punishment, but rather about a process of correction and transformation. Overall Meaning: The verse paints a picture of God’s purposeful intervention – a careful restoration process. It's about healing, renewal, and ultimately, a return to righteousness. Important Note: This is a complex passage with symbolic language. It's often interpreted as a promise of God’s ultimate justice and mercy, but also suggests a gentle process of correction aimed at bringing people back to their original state of being – a state of wholeness and alignment with God's will. --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What specifically are you interested in understanding about this verse? (e.g., its symbolism, its connection to other parts of the Bible?)