Definition: Fear ye not me? saith the LORD: will ye not tremble at my presence, which have placed the sand [for] the bound of the sea by a perpetual decree, that it cannot pass it: and though the waves thereof toss themselves, yet can they not prevail; though they roar, yet can they not pass over it?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Jeremiah 5:22. It's a really striking image filled with immense power and warning. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse describes God’s absolute control over creation – specifically, the sea. God is saying, “I am in charge of this sea, and I will not let it pass.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 5:22” : This refers to a specific event in the Old Testament – a devastating flood that God had already caused. It’s a time of immense suffering and despair for people. “Fear ye not me?” - This is a direct challenge from God. He's saying, "Don't be afraid of me!" It’s a declaration of his authority. “Saith the LORD” : This means “God speaks.” It's a way of emphasizing God’s position and power. “Will ye not tremble at my presence?” - This is the heart of the verse. He’s asking if people are willing to acknowledge his power and authority. “Which have placed the sand [for] the bound of the sea by a perpetual decree” : This is a really important, poetic detail. The "sand [for] the bound" refers to a massive wall or boundary that God has created around the sea. It's a permanent and unbreakable barrier. Think of it like a giant, divine fence. “That it cannot pass it” : This tells us that this boundary is designed to stop anything from entering or leaving the sea. “And though the waves thereof toss themselves, yet can they not prevail?” - This part highlights God’s power over nature. The waves are powerful and persistent, but they cannot overcome God's boundary. “Though they roar, yet can they not pass over it?” – This is a more direct statement of God's control. The roaring of the waves sounds like defiance, but God’s boundary remains unyielding. The Bigger Picture & What it Means: This verse speaks to several important themes: God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God has ultimate authority over everything – even creation itself. Divine Protection: It's a message of protection from harm and destruction. God is safeguarding his creation. The Power of God: It emphasizes that God is stronger than any earthly power, including human resistance or natural forces. In short, Jeremiah 5:22 is a powerful warning – a declaration that God is in control of the sea and will not allow anything to breach his boundaries. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Give you a biblical context for this verse (e.g., its role in the Old Testament story)?