Και απεστειλεν ο Θεος αγγελον εις Ιερουσαλημ, δια να εξολοθρευση αυτην· και ενω εξωλοθρευεν, ειδεν ο Κυριος και μετεμεληθη περι του κακου, και ειπε προς τον αγγελον τον εξολοθρευοντα, Αρκει ηδη· συρε την χειρα σου. Ιστατο δε ο αγγελος του Κυριου πλησιον του αλωνιου του Ορναν του Ιεβουσαιου.
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes an angel sent by God to destroy Jerusalem, but God sees the destruction and stops it, telling the angel to stop. The angel stops at the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.
Explained for Children
Imagine a big, angry storm was about to destroy a city. But a kind parent sees the destruction happening and stops the storm. They tell it to stop at a nearby farm. It's like God stopping something bad from getting worse.
Historical Background
1 Chronicles was written by unknown authors, likely during or shortly after the Babylonian exile, to provide a historical narrative for the Israelites. This section reflects the time when King David was ruling, and the people of Jerusalem faced a severe judgment.
Living It Out Today
This verse can remind us that even in our darkest times, God can stop the destruction and offer us a way out. For instance, if someone is struggling with addiction, this verse can be a reminder that God can step in and provide a way to stop the destructive cycle.