Definition: And he said unto the men of Succoth, Give, I pray you, loaves of bread unto the people that follow me; for they [be] faint, and I am pursuing after Zebah and Zalmunna, kings of Midian.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 8:5. It’s a really important passage about leadership and responsibility! Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it means: “I’m asking the people of Succoth – a small village – to share some food with them because they are starving.” Let’s unpack it bit by bit: “And he said unto the men of Succoth…” : This tells us who is speaking. It's Jesus, the leader of the Jewish community at the time. “…Give, I pray you, loaves of bread unto the people that follow me.” : This is the core instruction. He’s asking the people of Succoth to give them food. “Follow me” refers to his followers – the disciples he had with him. “For they [be] faint, and I am pursuing after Zebah and Zalmunna, kings of Midian.” : This explains why he’s asking them to give food. The people of Succoth are very poor and starving. He's also telling us about two other men, Zebah and Zalmunna, who are wealthy and powerful – they're kings in a region called Midian. He’s pursuing them because they are ahead of him. What's the message? This verse highlights several things: Leadership Responsibility: Jesus is emphasizing his responsibility to care for those under his leadership, even when it means making difficult choices like asking people to share their resources. Compassion and Charity: It shows a deep concern for the well-being of others and a willingness to help those who are suffering. Justice & Fairness: It implies that the wealthy should be held accountable for their actions, as they are hindering the needs of the less fortunate. In short, it’s a story about a leader showing compassion and taking action to alleviate suffering. --- Do you want me to explain another Bible verse, or perhaps delve deeper into a specific aspect of this one? For example, would you like to know: More about the context of the time? The meaning behind "following" in this context?

Definition: He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important verse from Matthew 19:18. It’s a really classic and profound passage about love and our responsibilities to others. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: “He saith unto him, Which?” – This is key. Jesus isn’t asking a direct question to someone. He’s saying, “What does this mean for you?” It’s about understanding what it means to live a life that reflects God's love and principles. “Thou shalt do no murder” – This means we should never intentionally harm or kill another person. It’s a fundamental rule of morality. “Thou shalt not commit adultery” – This refers to having a committed, loving relationship with someone that involves sexual intimacy. It's about honesty and faithfulness in our relationships. “Thou shalt not steal” – This means we should never take what belongs to someone else without their permission or rightful ownership. It’s about respect for others' property. “Thou shalt not bear false witness” - This means we should always tell the truth, even when it's difficult. It's about integrity and trust – being honest and trustworthy in our dealings with others. So, what does this verse really mean? Jesus is teaching us that these commandments aren’t just rules to follow; they are expressions of God’s love for us. When we live by these principles, we demonstrate a deep respect for human life and relationships. It emphasizes the importance of compassion, honesty, and responsibility in our interactions with everyone around us. In short, it's about loving others as much as you love yourself. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these verses in more detail? Give you a related story or example?

Definition: And the younger of them said to [his] father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth [to me]. And he divided unto them [his] living.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 15:12. It's a really important and insightful passage about God’s love and how He treats us. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a young child behaving incredibly well – it’s almost like a little king! – and then asks its father for something that wasn't given to it. It’s about God’s generosity and how He handles our needs. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the younger of them…” : This refers to a young child, often representing a person who is new to faith or isn’t yet fully devoted to God. “…said to [his] father…” : The young child is speaking to its father, likely asking for something. “Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth [to me].” : This is where it gets interesting. “Fallen” here means lost or taken . The young child isn't asking for a specific thing; they’re simply stating their desire – to have something. It’s like saying, "I want this." “And he divided unto them [his] living.” : This is the really profound part. God then divided (gave) what was lost to the young child. He didn't just give it away; He used it – He gave it to them, as if it were a precious gift. What does this mean? Jesus uses this story to teach us about: God’s Love: God loves us so much that He'll do anything for us, even give something away that we didn’t ask for. Generosity: God is generous and willing to share His blessings with us. Our Role in God’s Plan: We are called to be like the young child – to trust in Him and to receive what He has prepared for us. In short, this verse says that God will always provide for us, even when we don't ask for it. It emphasizes that our worth isn't based on what we deserve but on what God already gives . --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the meaning in a different way (e.g., relating it to our own lives)?

Definition: And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 6:18: “And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew.” Basically, it means God is powerful and can create things through his power. Here's a simpler explanation: “The sea arose”: This refers to a massive storm or a huge wave. It wasn’t just any wave; it was incredibly powerful and caused a lot of trouble. “by reason of a great wind that blew”: This is the key part. The wind wasn't just blowing randomly. It was causing the sea to rise. Think of it like this: the wind was pushing the water upwards, creating a huge wave. So, what does this tell us? It’s a powerful illustration of God’s ability to bring about things through his power. It shows that God can overcome anything, even seemingly impossible situations, because he is capable and willing to act. In a spiritual sense: It's a reminder that God has the power to move mountains and create everything he wants. --- Do you want me to explain another verse? Or perhaps you’d like me to delve into a specific aspect of this passage? For example, we could talk about: Its connection to Jesus’ miracles (like healing the sick) The idea of divine power and creation

Definition: And turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrising unto the border of Chislothtabor, and then goeth out to Daberath, and goeth up to Japhia,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 19:12. It’s a pretty important part of the story of how Joshua leads his army into battle! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Joshua is leading his soldiers to attack a fortified city called Sarid. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And turned from Sarid eastward…” – This tells us Joshua was heading east. He was changing direction. “…toward the sunrising unto the border of Chislothtabor…” - “The sunrising” means sunrise. The verse continues to describe a journey towards a specific location called Chislothtabor. It's a long way, and they’re traveling towards it. “…and then goeth out to Daberath…” – This is where the action begins. Joshua and his army are now moving toward a place called Daberath. “…and goeth up to Japhia.” - Finally, they continue their journey and eventually reach the city of Japhia. So, what's the big picture? This verse describes a significant military campaign. Joshua is leading his troops on a long and difficult journey to conquer a fortified city. It’s a strategic move aimed at securing a key location and potentially disrupting the enemy’s operations. Important Note: The exact details of the battle are complex, but this verse sets up the stage for a large and challenging conflict! --- Do you want me to: Explain why Joshua is doing this? (e.g., strategic importance of Daberath) Give you more context about the history surrounding this event? Answer any specific questions you have about this verse?

Definition: And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Revelation 16:4. It’s a pretty intense and symbolic description of something happening in the future. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a catastrophic event – a massive outpouring of a liquid – that causes widespread bloodshed and destruction. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the third angel poured out his vial…” : This refers to a specific, powerful figure or entity (we don’t know exactly who, but it’s significant) who is pouring a liquid from a container – think of it like a huge, controlled spill. “…upon the rivers and fountains of waters…” : This isn't just any water. It’s massive amounts of water - rivers, lakes, oceans, even the streams that flow through the land. It's a vast quantity of water being unleashed. “And they became blood.” : This is the core of the message. The liquid pouring out isn't just water; it’s blood . It’s not a literal, physical blood, but it represents a terrible consequence – the loss of life and the destruction caused by this event. What does it symbolize? This verse is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of: The End Times: It's a sign that the time of trouble is coming, and something significant will happen to disrupt peace and create suffering. A Great Judgment: It suggests a final judgment or reckoning is about to occur. The Corruption of Things: The "blood" can represent the corruption or moral decay that comes with sin and wickedness. Important Note: It's crucial to remember this is a symbolic description, not necessarily literal events happening in our time. It’s meant to be a warning about the potential for disaster. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+16%3A4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+16%3A4) The Bible Project: [https://www.thebibleproject.com/Revelation/Revelation-16-4](https://www.thebibleproject.com/Revelation/Revelation-16-4) --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Talk about the context of this verse within the larger book of Revelation? Answer a specific question you have about it?

Definition: Shall I not visit them for these [things]? saith the LORD: shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Jeremiah 9:9. It's a really weighty statement, and it speaks to a profound sense of God’s judgment and his concern for His people. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This passage is about God feeling deeply hurt and angry at a nation that is failing to follow His instructions and doesn’t care for the true ways he wants them to live. He's essentially saying, "I will come back and punish this nation if they continue on their path of wickedness." Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “Shall I not visit them…” : This is a very direct command from God. He’s going to be actively involved in this nation's fate. “Saith the LORD: shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this?” – This is the core of the verse. “Avenged” means punished severely, often with death or suffering. The Lord is saying he will punish them. What does it mean in simpler terms? It’s a warning from God about the consequences of a nation’s actions. He's not just worried; he's prepared to take action if they continue down a destructive path – a path that ignores His guidance and leads to injustice, immorality, and ultimately, destruction. The Context - Why is this important? This verse comes from a time when Israel was deeply in trouble. They were wandering in idolatry (worshiping false gods) and were experiencing immense suffering. Jeremiah was essentially telling the people that God would not tolerate such behavior. It’s a crucial moment where God showed his displeasure with their choices and set about delivering judgment. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prediction of future destruction, but it's more nuanced than just predicting a single event. It’s a warning about the potential for serious consequences if a nation continues to reject God’s will. In short, this verse expresses God's deep concern and righteous anger at a nation that is failing to listen to Him and is on a path that leads to harm. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Bible? Discuss the historical context more deeply? Explore the different interpretations of this verse?

Definition: Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 43:1. It’s a really powerful verse that expresses a feeling of deep distress and desperation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse comes from a time when someone was feeling incredibly vulnerable and betrayed – they felt like God wasn't helping them. They were asking God to judge them harshly, and they’re pleading for help against people who are deliberately causing them trouble and making things difficult. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Judge me, O God…” : This isn't a request for a harsh punishment. It’s a plea for God to look deeply into the situation and understand what’s happening. It’s like saying, “I need your guidance.” “…and plead my cause against an ungodly nation” : This is where it gets really intense. "Ungodly nation" means a group of people who are not concerned with right and wrong, and they're actively causing harm or problems. It’s like someone intentionally trying to bring suffering into the world. “O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man” : This is the plea for God’s intervention. The person is asking God to save them from those who are deliberately misleading, tricking, or harming them. They're hoping for a righteous intervention – a way to stop their actions. Overall Meaning: The verse captures a moment of intense emotional pain and a desperate request for divine protection against those who are causing harm and making it difficult for someone to live a good life. It speaks to the feeling of being vulnerable, helpless, and needing a powerful force to intervene. In essence, it’s a heartfelt expression of fear and a plea for God's intervention in a situation where the person feels like they are at risk. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Psalm 43? Connect it to a broader theme in the Bible (like trust, vulnerability, or seeking God)?

Definition: And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then believed ye him not?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 20:5. It’s a really important and slightly complex passage that speaks about faith and doubt. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: Jesus is pointing out that people were actively arguing with him, trying to convince him to believe in his teachings. They were essentially saying, “If we just tell Him he’s divine, why didn’t He tell us?” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “They reasoned with themselves…” : This means they weren’t just casually debating. They were thinking deeply about the issue and trying to find a way to argue against him. It suggests a level of intellectual effort. “…saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then believed ye him not?” : This is the core of the verse. Let's break it down: “If we shall say, From heaven…” : They were suggesting that if they asserted that Jesus was divine (a key belief in Christianity), He would then confirm their belief. “…he will say, Why then believed ye him not?” : This is the crucial part. Jesus wasn’t just passively accepting their argument; he was raising a question: Why did they not believe Him? What's the point of this? This verse highlights a fundamental challenge in faith – the difficulty of believing something when you can’t fully grasp it or understand it. It speaks to the human tendency to doubt, even when there’s compelling evidence. Why is this important? Jesus' Ministry: It shows that Jesus wasn’t just giving a simple answer; He was challenging their thinking and prompting them to examine their beliefs. Human Fallibility: It acknowledges that we all struggle with doubt, even believers. It reminds us that genuine faith isn't always easy or comfortable. In essence, Luke 20:5 is a snapshot of a moment where Jesus was testing the hearts and minds of those around him, forcing them to confront the possibility that they might be wrong. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Luke 20?

Definition: And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the mountains shall drop down new wine, and the hills shall flow with milk, and all the rivers of Judah shall flow with waters, and a fountain shall come forth of the house of the LORD, and shall water the valley of Shittim.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty poetic and symbolic passage from the Book of Joel, and it speaks to a significant time in biblical history – think of it as a prophecy about the future. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a massive outpouring of blessings and renewal that will occur when God’s people are truly faithful and repent of their sins. It's like a massive, joyous flood – not just water, but also nourishment and peace. Let's break it down into its parts: “And it shall come to pass in that day…” - This sets the scene – it’s about to happen at a specific point in time , which is described as “that day.” It’s not just a general event; it’s something dramatic. “[That] the mountains shall drop down new wine…” - This is metaphorical! Mountains aren't actually dropping wine – it's an image of overflowing abundance and a joyful outpouring. "New wine" represents a fresh start, a renewal of something precious. “and the hills shall flow with milk…” - Similar to the previous point, this symbolizes a release of nourishment and sweetness. It’s not just water; it's a flowing, gentle abundance. “and all the rivers of Judah shall flow with waters…” - This is key! "Judah" refers to Israel (the nation that God chose to be blessed). The rivers are literally flowing with water – signifying a return to prosperity and a revitalized land. “and a fountain shall come forth of the house of the LORD…” - This is where it gets really powerful. "The house of the Lord" refers to God himself, and the “fountain” symbolizes a source of divine blessing and power – a place of holiness and peace. “and shall water the valley of Shittim.” - "Shittim" was an old name for the desert region east of Jerusalem. This means the fountain will literally bring life back to that area, restoring it to its original beauty and abundance. It's a symbol of healing and restoration. Overall Meaning & Significance: Joel is urging God’s people to repent (turn away from their sins) and to be faithful. This verse paints a picture of a time when God will bring about a complete renewal – a return to the blessings he promised them, restoring what was lost and bringing peace and abundance back to the land. It's a message of hope, restoration, and divine judgment. Important Note: This is a prophecy, meaning it’s believed to be true in biblical terms. It’s not necessarily predicting exactly what will happen, but rather describing a future event that points towards a time of repentance and restoration. Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to another Bible passage? Discuss the symbolism behind the imagery used?