Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
«Men Jeg skal likevel huske denne bindene avtalen Jeg inngikk med deg i dine ungdoms dager. Jeg skal opprette en evig pakt med deg. Da skal du huske oppførselen din og skamme deg når du tar imot søstrene dine, både dem som er eldre, og dem som er yngre enn deg. For Jeg skal gi dem til deg, og de skal være som døtrene dine. Men avtalen gjelder bare deg, Jerusalem. Jeg skal opprette Min pakt med deg. Da skal du kjenne at Jeg er Herren. Du skal huske hva Jeg har gjort for deg og hva du har gjort mot Meg, og det skal gjøre deg skamfull. På grunn av skammen din skal du aldri mer åpne munnen. Dette skjer når Jeg lar alt det du har gjort, bli sonet og oppgjort», sier Herren Gud.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, God is speaking to Jerusalem, promising to remember the covenant He made when they were young and to establish an everlasting covenant with them. This shows God's commitment to His people despite their past failures.
Explained for Children
Imagine you made a promise to a friend when you were little, and even though you've both grown up and had ups and downs, you still remember that promise. That's what God is saying here: He will always keep His promise to His people.
Historical Background
The book of Ezekiel was written by the prophet Ezekiel around 593-571 BC. This verse is part of a message to Jerusalem, a city that had turned away from God. The context is the exilic period, where Israel was suffering under Babylonian rule.
Living It Out Today
In modern life, when we feel like we've made too many mistakes or that our relationships are beyond repair, this verse reminds us that God's promises and covenant with us remain steadfast. Just like God's promise to Jerusalem, He can rebuild and restore our relationships and lives.
An everlasting covenant is a promise that God makes which has no end. It's a guarantee of His enduring love and commitment, even when the covenant holder fails.
How does this relate to the New Testament?
This verse is a precursor to the new covenant promised in the New Testament, which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, offering eternal salvation and grace to all who believe.
What are the implications for personal faith?
For personal faith, this verse encourages believers to hold onto the promises of God, even in difficult times, knowing that His faithfulness is constant.
How can this verse be used in a sermon?
This verse can be used in a sermon to highlight God's enduring love and faithfulness, encouraging the congregation to remember and trust in God's promises.