Definition: And in [their] hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 4:11. It’s a really powerful and symbolic statement about Jesus’s mission. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is telling those around him – his disciples – that they are essential to helping him. They are meant to be a support system, a shield, and a way for him to remain safe and strong. Let’s unpack it: “In their hands…” : This refers to the disciples. They're the ones who will be closest to Jesus as he travels and is tested. “…they shall bear thee up…” : This means they are meant to support him, to lift him up when he’s in danger or difficult situations. It’s about offering protection and comfort. “…lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.” : This is the key part! “Dash thy foot against a stone” is an idiom – it means to fall or get hurt. It's a metaphor for failure . It represents being seriously injured, discouraged, or failing in his mission. So, what does it mean? Jesus wants his disciples to be reliable and proactive. They’re not just observers; they’re meant to be active helpers, ensuring he doesn't get hurt or feel overwhelmed by the challenges ahead. It's a strong statement of trust and responsibility. In essence, it’s saying: "Trust in me. I need your support." --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with more context? Give you another Bible verse for comparison? Answer any specific questions you have about the meaning of this passage?