Definition: Therefore will I number you to the sword, and ye shall all bow down to the slaughter: because when I called, ye did not answer; when I spake, ye did not hear; but did evil before mine eyes, and did choose [that] wherein I delighted not.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Isaiah 65:12. It’s a really significant message about God’s plan for humanity and His relationship with us. Here's a breakdown in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse isn’t about our future – it’s about God’s future. It says that God is going to use us, and we are going to be completely under His control. He’s deliberately choosing to put us in a position of danger , where we must bow down to Him. Let's unpack the parts: “Therefore will I number you to the sword” : This is a dramatic way of saying God is going to bring about a time when we are in a very difficult and dangerous situation. “Numbering” means counting, so it suggests a precise and inevitable outcome. Think of it like being marked for destruction. “and ye did not answer” : This is a key part. We're talking about us , the people of Israel, who had been listening to God’s word but weren’t truly hearing Him or taking action. We were distracted and didn’t respond to His message. “when I spake, ye did not hear” : This is a bit tricky. It means that God spoke to us, but we didn't understand what He was saying. We weren’t receptive to His word or guidance. We were lost and focused on our own desires. “but did evil before my eyes, and did choose [that] wherein I delighted not” : This is the most important part – it’s about God's perspective. He saw something that displeased Him (we mean, something that was harmful to Him). He chose to put us in a position where we are facing this potential danger because of this “evil.” It’s like He saw something bad happening and decided to make it happen – deliberately! In simpler terms: God is going to use us in a way that will be very difficult for us, and He's choosing to put us in a position where we must bow down to Him. It's not about punishment; it’s about His plan of bringing about a time when we are completely under His control. What does this mean for us? This verse is often interpreted as a promise that God will ultimately bring about the restoration and renewal of Israel, and eventually, all of humanity. It suggests a final judgment where God will restore everything to its original state, and we will be part of that new creation. Important Note: The interpretation of this verse has varied throughout history. Some see it as a warning, others as a promise of ultimate restoration. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or teachings? Discuss the different interpretations of this passage?