Definition: And it shall come to pass, if they say unto thee, Whither shall we go forth? then thou shalt tell them, Thus saith the LORD; Such as [are] for death, to death; and such as [are] for the sword, to the sword; and such as [are] for the famine, to the famine; and such as [are] for the captivity, to the captivity.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 15:2. It’s a really important passage about God’s plan to protect His people during a time of great hardship. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: God is telling his people, the Israelites, that He has a specific plan to protect them from impending disaster – specifically, a devastating famine. He wants to guarantee their survival and well-being. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And it shall come to pass, if they say unto thee, Whither shall we go forth?” - This is the question God is posing to the Israelites. They're asking, "What should we do when we’re faced with this difficult situation?" It’s a moment of uncertainty and worry. “then thou shalt tell them, Thus saith the LORD;” – This is God’s direct response. He says, “This is what I have decided.” “Such as [are] for death, to death; and such as [are] for the sword, to the sword; and such as [are] for the famine, to the famine; and such as [are] for the captivity, to the captivity.” - This is the key part. God is giving instructions for how to respond to different situations – these are specific, clear commands. He's outlining a strategy based on what’s likely to happen. “Such as [are] for death, to death” : If people say they want to go in a direction that leads to death (like leaving the land or fleeing), God will tell them to flee to death. “such as [are] for the sword, to the sword” : If people say they want to go in a direction that leads to conflict with others (like fighting or attacking), God will tell them to run to the sword. “such as [are] for the famine, to the famine” : If people say they want to flee to seek safety from hunger and lack of food, God will tell them to go to the famine. “such as [are] for the captivity, to the captivity” : If people say they want to leave their land or return to a place where they’re enslaved, God will tell them to flee back to their homeland. In simpler terms: God is giving specific instructions on how to react to different dangers – things that could threaten the safety and lives of his people. He's establishing a system of protection and guidance based on what likely will happen if they make bad choices. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the importance of divine protection and foresight. It’s a reminder that God watches over His people and has a plan for their survival, even when things seem chaotic and uncertain. It emphasizes that we should trust in God's guidance and be prepared for what might come. --- Would you like me to: Explain any of these points further? Connect this verse to other stories or biblical themes? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Israel’s history?