Definition: Behold, they shall surely gather together, [but] not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this powerful verse from Isaiah 54:15. It’s a really significant and often-interpreted passage about God’s relationship to humanity. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is actively working to keep people separate from each other. It’s not necessarily about us being intentionally kept apart, but rather that the very act of trying to gather together against God will inevitably lead to our downfall. Let's unpack it word by word: "Behold, they shall surely gather together..." – This is a dramatic introduction. "Behold" suggests something significant and inevitable. It’s like saying, “Look!” "...but not by me." - This is the crucial part. It's not that God is actively trying to stop people from meeting or interacting. He’s not sending a message to discourage us. "Whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake." – This is where it gets deeper. "Gather together" refers to groups of people, communities, nations, etc. “Against thee” means against God's will or plan. “Fall for thy sake” means to suffer consequences – to be harmed, disappointed, or worse, to experience a loss that impacts us in some way. What does this mean practically? The message here is about the dangers of division and conflict. It suggests: We are all vulnerable: Because we're all part of God’s creation, we’re inherently connected. Trying to build walls or divisions with each other makes us susceptible to being hurt or losing something important. God has a plan: It’s not that God doesn’t want our relationships, but that our actions towards each other – especially those driven by hatred, conflict, and disagreement – can lead to something negative for us. Important Context & Interpretations: The Old Testament: This verse is most often interpreted within the context of the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Isaiah. It’s about God's sovereignty and his intention to protect His people. The "Tribulation" Era: Many believe this verse speaks to a time of great tribulation or suffering in history (the “Tribulation” period). It’s a warning against pride and rebellion – acting out of selfishness and seeking to oppose God. In short, it's a reminder that our relationships with each other are important, but we need to be mindful of how we interact with others and avoid actions that could harm us or our community. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Discuss its relevance to modern society? Provide examples of situations where this verse might apply?