Definition: Then shalt thou say unto them, Because your fathers have forsaken me, saith the LORD, and have walked after other gods, and have served them, and have worshipped them, and have forsaken me, and have not kept my law;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 16:11. It's a really powerful message about God’s feelings towards people who don’t follow His laws. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: God is incredibly disappointed and angry with people who have broken his rules. He feels abandoned and hurt by their choices. Let's look at it piece by piece: “Then shalt thou say unto them…” – This means God is addressing a group of people. “…Because your fathers have forsaken me…” - This is the core of the problem. The verse starts with a lament, a sad and mournful expression of God’s feelings. He's saying that his people abandoned him in the past – they stopped following His commands. Think of it like leaving someone behind without a trace. "...and have walked after other gods…” - This is a direct accusation. They've started worshipping and making offerings to different deities instead of Him. "...and have served them, and have worshipped them, and have forsaken me..." – This paints a vivid picture: they’re actively defying God’s will by worshiating other gods and ignoring His teachings. It's like someone is deliberately disobeying him! "...and have not kept my law." - This is the most important part. God has been teaching people about right and wrong, and they haven’t listened or obeyed Him. They are ignoring his instructions and rules. What does this mean for us? This verse isn't just about past actions; it’s a warning to all people. It’s a call to repentance – to turn back to God and follow His laws. It means we need to: Repent: Change our ways and stop doing things that are wrong. Turn Back: Return to God, just as He turned away from his people. Keep the Law: Live a life that honors God by following His commandments. In short, this verse is a serious warning about disobedience and a plea for repentance – urging us to return to God's will. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of the verse within the larger story of Jeremiah? Discuss what this verse might mean for our lives today?