Definition: But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not take hold of your fathers? and they returned and said, Like as the LORD of hosts thought to do unto us, according to our ways, and according to our doings, so hath he dealt with us.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 1:6. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Bible. Here’s an explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God’s laws and instructions – the “statutes” – given to the prophets – like Zechariah – did have a significant impact on the people of Israel's past. It’s highlighting a feeling of being manipulated or controlled by those in power. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “But my words and my statutes…” - This refers to the laws and commands given by God to the prophets, like rules about how to behave, what to do, and what to avoid. “…which I commanded my servants the prophets…” – This means that the prophets were following instructions from God. "...did they not take hold of your fathers?" - This is a crucial part. It’s asking if those laws had an effect on the people of Israel before them. Did these laws influence their choices and actions? "...and they returned and said, Like as the LORD of hosts thought to do unto us, according to our ways, and according to our doings…" - This is where it gets a little unsettling. The people of Israel were following their own traditions, customs, and ways of doing things – often based on their own desires and ambitions. They were essentially going in the direction God intended , but they were choosing to do it according to their own plans . It’s like they were trying to dictate how things should be done, rather than following God's will. The Overall Meaning: Zechariah is expressing a deep feeling of being manipulated and controlled by the people in power – specifically, the Israelites themselves – who were pursuing paths that didn't align with God’s plan. It suggests a situation where someone was actively trying to steer them away from their true path. What does it mean for us today? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and self-reliance, and the importance of listening to God's guidance – even when it seems like people are acting on their own accord. It’s a reminder that we should always be mindful of aligning our actions with what God wants for us. In short: God gave instructions to the prophets, and these instructions led the Israelites down a path they didn't fully understand or willingly chose. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: Why this passage is significant in biblical prophecy? How it relates to other parts of the Bible? What does it teach about trust and obedience?