Definition: And if a stranger shall sojourn among you, and will keep the passover unto the LORD; according to the ordinance of the passover, and according to the manner thereof, so shall he do: ye shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 9:14. It’s a really important part of understanding how God wants to treat people who are visiting or staying with you. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about different levels of hospitality and respect for someone who is visiting your home or community. It’s saying that God wants to ensure a fair and consistent way of honoring those who are different from you. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Numbers 9:14” : This is the verse itself – it’s a specific passage in the Bible. “And if a stranger shall sojourn among you…” : This means someone who isn’t a member of your family or community is staying with you for a while. “…and will keep the passover unto the LORD…” : This refers to the Passover, which was an important Jewish ritual that happened in ancient times. The “passover” part means it's a special celebration and remembrance. "...according to the ordinance of the passover, and according to the manner thereof..." : This is where it gets more detailed. It’s saying exactly how this stranger needs to behave – they need to follow the rules and customs associated with the Passover. “…so shall he do: ye shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.” : This is the crucial part. It means God wants one specific rule or ceremony for these visitors – a single event – that applies to everyone, regardless of their background. What does this mean practically? Fair Treatment: It’s about treating everyone with respect and fairness. Consistency: The rule should be applied consistently across all people in your community. A Single Rule for Everyone: God wants to ensure that everyone gets the same basic respect and understanding of what's important in your community. In short, this verse is about establishing a clear set of guidelines for welcoming and respecting visitors – making sure everyone is treated with the same level of consideration. Why is this important? The Passover story teaches God’s love and care for all people. This verse shows that God wants to show his love through a structured system, ensuring fairness and respect for everyone who enters your life. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or concept in the Bible?