Definition: If they sin against thee, (for [there is] no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near;
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Kings 8:46. It’s a pretty serious statement about God’s judgment and how He responds to sin. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that if someone sins against God – meaning they disobey His commands or show disrespect – and God is angered by it, God will take action to punish them. It's a strong statement about God’s justice and the consequences of sin. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “If they sin against thee…” : This means if someone breaks God’s rules or shows disrespect towards Him. It’s not just any kind of offense, but a deliberate act that violates His will. “(for [there is] no man that sinneth not)” : This is a strong statement – it means no one ever sins. It's emphasizing the absolute nature of God's holiness and perfect goodness. “and thou be angry with them…” : This highlights the righteous indignation of God. He isn’t just disappointed; he's feeling deeply offended by the wrongdoing. “and deliver them to the enemy…” : This is the crucial part. It means that God will punish those who sin against Him. "Deliver them to the enemy" doesn't mean they’ll be physically harmed in a violent way, but rather they'll be removed from their country and taken away – often as captives – to a place controlled by someone else. What does this mean for us? This verse speaks to a few important things: God’s Justice: It shows that God is completely just and will always hold people accountable for their actions, even if they are trying to hide or deny their wrongdoing. God's Sovereignty: It emphasizes that God has the ultimate authority over all people and everything. He isn’t just concerned with how we feel but about what He believes is right. The Consequences of Sin: It highlights that sin always has consequences, and those who disobey God will face judgment. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against rebellion and disobedience. It’s a reminder that God’s love isn't about punishing us for our mistakes, but about guiding us back to Him. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/1Kings%208%2646](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/1Kings%208%2646) GotQuestions.org: [https://www.gotquestions.org/1Kings846.html](https://www.gotquestions.org/1Kings846.html) --- Would you like me to: Explain a particular aspect of this verse in more detail? Provide a different perspective on the meaning of the verse?