Definition: And I will persecute them with the sword, with the famine, and with the pestilence, and will deliver them to be removed to all the kingdoms of the earth, to be a curse, and an astonishment, and an hissing, and a reproach, among all the nations whither I have driven them:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 29:18. It's a pretty dramatic and unsettling passage about God’s plan for those who oppose him. Here’s a simplified explanation: Core Idea: God is deliberately and decisively punishing those who disobey his commands and are causing harm to his people. He intends to utterly destroy them. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And I will persecute them with the sword, with the famine, and with the pestilence…” – This is a clear threat. God is saying he will use force against those who are rebellious or harmful. It's not just a general warning; it’s a specific plan to inflict pain. “…and will deliver them to be removed to all the kingdoms of the earth, to be a curse, and an astonishment, and an hissing, and a reproach…” – This is where it gets more intense. God isn't just punishing them now . He’s saying he will permanently remove them from all corners of the world (kingdoms). He’s setting them up for something awful - a "curse," an “astonishment,” and a “hissing” – which means they will be a source of shame and disapproval to everyone. “…among all the nations whither I have driven them:” – This emphasizes God's control. He’s not just punishing people randomly ; he’s deliberately choosing specific nations or groups that are actively rejecting him. He is “driving” them out of existence. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: This verse speaks to a period of intense judgment and wrath from God. It suggests that God is deeply angered by the disobedience and rebellion of his people. His plan isn’t about just punishment; it's about complete removal – making them disappear from the world, leaving only a shadow of their former selves. It’s a powerful statement about divine justice and the potential consequences of rejecting God's will. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of future events, particularly regarding the rise of nations that will oppose God and ultimately be banished from the world. It’s a warning about the importance of obedience to God’s law. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its context within the larger book of Jeremiah? Explore what it might mean for our modern world?