Definition: For all those [things] hath mine hand made, and all those [things] have been, saith the LORD: but to this [man] will I look, [even] to [him that is] poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 66:2. It's a really beautiful and comforting passage about God’s care for us. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse says: “God made everything, and He’s watching over everyone , especially those who are struggling and are truly sorry for their mistakes.” Let’s unpack each part a little: “For all those [things] hath mine hand made…” : This is a bit metaphorical. "Things" could represent anything – our lives, our struggles, our problems, even our potential for good or bad. It means God actively created these things. “…and all those [things] have been, saith the LORD: But to this [man] will I look…” : This is the core of the message. The Lord (God) isn’t just making things; He's observing them. “Has been” means that these things have already happened . But here’s the key: He’s looking specifically at this man . “…even to this [man] will I look, [even] at the poor and of a contrite spirit…” : This is where it gets really powerful. The Lord isn't judging everyone. He’s focusing on one specific person . "Poor and of a contrite spirit" – these are words that describe someone who is deeply sorry for their wrongs, feels ashamed, and perhaps doesn't understand the consequences of their actions. “…and trembleth at my word.” : This is the consequence of God’s watching. "Trembleth" means to shake with fear or anxiety. The verse says that this man will be frightened by God's words – He’ll feel a deep sense of worry and maybe even shame. So, putting it all together: God is actively creating the world around us, but He isn’t just passively watching. He’s focused on one specific person who is struggling with their mistakes. He's looking at them with concern and a willingness to judge them harshly. And because of this, he’s willing to examine them – to look closely at their actions and feelings – and feel fear when they do something wrong. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a message of hope and forgiveness. It reminds us that God loves us even when we make mistakes, and He's watching over us with unwavering care. It’s a reminder to: Be honest with ourselves: Recognize your mistakes and take responsibility for them. Seek forgiveness: Pray for the chance to be forgiven by God. Turn away from wrongdoing: Make amends for our mistakes and strive to do better in the future. In essence, it’s a promise of judgment alongside compassion. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss the meaning behind the words “poor” and “contrite”? Connect this verse to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: And they shall bring all your brethren [for] an offering unto the LORD out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain Jerusalem, saith the LORD, as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 66:20. It's a pretty dramatic and symbolic passage about God’s plan for His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a massive, coordinated effort – a “giving” – that God intends to do with His followers. It’s saying, "God is going to use all of the world to bring everything we have to Him." Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And they shall bring all your brethren…” : This refers to all of humanity. It's not just a few people; it’s everyone on Earth. “…unto the LORD out of all nations…” : This is the key. "All nations" means every country, from big and powerful ones to small and humble ones. It’s a global outpouring. "...upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts…" : This describes how people will contribute – they'll be using all sorts of transportation: wagons, carts, even simple animals like donkeys and mules. It’s a massive, organized movement. "...and upon swift beasts…” : This emphasizes the urgency and scale of the offering. “Swift” suggests speed and efficiency. "...to my holy mountain Jerusalem…” : Jerusalem is a very important place in Jewish tradition – it’s considered the center of God's presence and a symbol of hope and restoration. It’s being called to receive this massive contribution. “ saith the LORD, as the children of Israel bring an offering into the house of the LORD.” : This is where it gets really significant. The Old Testament describes how the Israelites (and later, Jews) did this in the past – they brought gifts and sacrifices to God’s temple in Jerusalem. This verse says that this effort will be even grander and more complete. Overall Meaning - A Promise of Restoration: The entire passage is essentially a prophecy about God's return and restoration to His people. It’s saying: God wants to restore all humanity to Him. He intends to use the whole world to do this. It's a massive, coordinated effort that will ultimately lead to a renewed covenant (a binding agreement) between God and his people. It suggests a time of great blessing and restoration. Important Note: This is a visionary passage from the Bible. It’s not meant to be taken literally as a request for a massive, physical offering. It's a symbolic representation of God's plan to bring about His return and restore all things to Himself. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to other parts of the Bible? Discuss its symbolism?

Definition: And I will also take of them for priests [and] for Levites, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Isaiah 66:21. It’s a pretty powerful and symbolic statement about God’s plan for the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that God is going to actively be involved in helping people – particularly those who are struggling or facing challenges – by creating new leaders and roles within His community. Let's unpack it a bit: “I will also take of them…” - This isn’t just about God planning for something; He’s actively participating in it. It implies a deliberate action. “…for priests [and] for Levites…” – This is the key part! “Priests” and “Levites” were roles within the ancient Jewish religious system that served as intermediaries between God and the people. Think of them as spiritual leaders, but with specific duties and responsibilities. “Saith the LORD.” - This is a formal way of saying "The Lord says..." – it's a direct quote from the Bible. So, what does this suggest? It suggests that God wants to actively work through His people to address problems and bring about positive change. It’s not just about providing support; it means He’s going to be involved in guiding and empowering those who are called to serve in a spiritual way. Think of it like this: Imagine a shepherd looking after his flock. The verse describes God as actively watching over His people, offering guidance, and helping them through difficult times – just as a shepherd helps their sheep. Important Note: This is often interpreted as a promise of future restoration and blessing for those who are struggling or in need. It speaks to God’s care and concern for His people. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore a different Bible verse that shares similar themes?

Definition: For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the LORD, so shall your seed and your name remain.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful passage from Isaiah 66:22. It's a really powerful verse with layers of meaning, but here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about God’s plan for the future – a new and glorious time for humanity. He’s promising to create something truly special and lasting. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make…” - This is where it gets a little poetic. “New heavens” and “new earth” are metaphors for a completely fresh start – a time of perfect peace, beauty, and righteousness. Think of it like starting over with a clean slate. “…which shall remain before me, saith the LORD…” - God is declaring that He will make these new heavens and earth. It’s not just a plan; He has already begun the work. "...so shall your seed and your name remain." – This is the really important part! “Seed” refers to the future generation, the descendants of all people. And “your name” speaks to God's own identity – His glory and holiness. The phrase "shall remain" means that both your future and your very existence (God’s name) will endure forever. What does this mean in a nutshell? It suggests that God is creating something incredibly significant, lasting, and perfect. It’s about a future where humanity is redeemed and restored to a state of peace and harmony with Himself and with the world. It's not just about a change in our lives; it’s about a fundamental transformation of reality itself. In essence, this verse speaks of God’s ultimate plan for creation and redemption – a future filled with hope, promise, and lasting glory. Does that make sense? Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Connect it to other Bible verses?

Definition: And it shall come to pass, [that] from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Isaiah 66:23. It’s a really significant message about God's plan for humanity. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that God is going to invite everyone to come worship and recognize Him as the ultimate authority. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And it shall come to pass…” : This part sets up a future event – something will happen. It’s not just about happening eventually ; it’s about a change in how people view God. “[That] from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another…” : This is where it gets a little more complex. “New moon” refers to the time when God declares something is holy and special (like a new day or a new covenant). “Sabbath” is a Jewish tradition of day off for rest and worship. So, this part means that God will bring about a period of widespread worship – a whole cycle of times when people focus on Him. “…shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD.” : This is the core of the verse. “Flesh” refers to all humanity - every person on Earth. "Saith the Lord" means "the Lord says." This is God speaking directly to us. It’s saying that God wants everyone to turn their attention and hearts to Him, to come seeking His presence and guidance. So, what's the big takeaway? Isaiah 66:23 suggests a future time when God intends to make everyone recognize and worship Him. It’s not just about a specific group or occasion; it's about a global shift in focus toward God. It implies a possibility of a renewed relationship with God, and that all humanity will be drawn to Him. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a promise of God’s ultimate triumph over evil and the eventual restoration of His kingdom. It speaks to the idea that God's presence will ultimately win out. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, we could talk about: The historical context of the Old Testament. What "flesh" means in a spiritual sense. The idea of a “new covenant” – a new agreement between God and humanity.

Definition: And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 66:24. It's a pretty dramatic and serious message about the consequences of sin. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that those who have broken God’s rules will be remembered and will face terrible consequences. Let’s unpack each part: “And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me…” – This means people who have disobeyed God are being noticed. "Carcases" refers to the remains of people – like a skeleton or a grave. So, it’s saying that those who have strayed from the path will be seen and remembered. “…for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched…” – This is a key part. “Worm” refers to sin, and “fire” refers to God’s judgment. The "worm" means that the effects of sin (like guilt, shame, and sorrow) will continue to plague people long after they've stopped doing bad things. The “fire” signifies that God’s justice – his righteous anger – won't be extinguished. “…and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.” - This is the most powerful part. It means that those who have broken God’s rules will be so awful and shocking to everyone else that they will be shunned, avoided, and considered a terrible example. They'll be seen as a warning to everyone. In short, Isaiah 66:24 warns of a future time when people who disobey God will be remembered and condemned by all. It’s a message of judgment and a call for repentance. What does this mean for us today? It reminds us that we are all vulnerable to God's judgment, and we need to strive to live righteously and follow His commands. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Discuss what this verse might be saying about our own lives or choices?