Definition: And I will set my glory among the heathen, and all the heathen shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Ezekiel 39:21. It's a really striking and symbolic verse, and it speaks to a huge shift in what’s happening with God’s plan for the world. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s intention of revealing his judgment – meaning he will show the truth about how things are going wrong – to all people. It's not just a punishment; it's a way for God to demonstrate his power and justice. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “I will set my glory among the heathen…” - This is key. “Glory” in this context doesn’t mean something beautiful or impressive. It means God’s presence, his divine authority, and his power . He's choosing to be seen and acknowledged in the world. “…and all the heathen shall see my judgment…” - "Heathen" refers to people who are not connected to God – essentially those who are lost or separated from him. “Judgment” means a reckoning, a consequence for their actions. It's about recognizing that they’ve strayed and need to be held accountable. “…that I have executed…” - This is where the action begins. God is actively working through this judgment. He’s not just observing; he’s taking steps to correct things. “and my hand that I have laid upon them.” – This is a very powerful image. It suggests a deliberate and forceful application of his power. “Hand” implies control and authority. It's not just about doing something, but actively controlling the situation. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of God’s ultimate plan to purify the world – to bring people back to him through his judgment. It suggests that God isn't just passively watching; he’s actively working to correct things, even if it means causing suffering and hardship. Important Note: The exact meaning has been debated throughout history. It’s a complex verse with layers of symbolism. However, the core message is always about God's justice, his power, and his intention to bring people to him. --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (e.g., Are you curious about the symbolism? Do you want a simpler explanation?)