Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Når noen fra Efraims stamme talte, skalv folket. De hadde fått en framtredende posisjon i folket. Men da de pådro seg skyld ved å dyrke Ba’al, døde de. Nå synder folket mer og mer. De lager seg støpte avgudsbilder av sølvet sitt. De lager avguder etter sine egne evner. Alt sammen er arbeid utført av håndverkere. De sier om dem: ‘De menneskene som ofrer, skal kysse kalver!’ Derfor skal folkene bli borte som dugg foran solen, eller som røyken som siver ut av røykåpningen.
What Does This Mean?
This verse talks about Ephraim, a tribe in Israel. It says that when Ephraim was afraid and spoke with trembling, they became powerful. But when they sinned by worshipping Baal, they fell into trouble.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're on a team (like Ephraim). When your team is scared but works hard, it becomes strong. But if the team starts following bad rules or doing wrong things, like playing with the wrong friends, then the whole team can get in big trouble.
Historical Background
The verse was written by Hosea, a prophet who lived around 750-725 BCE. He spoke to the Northern Kingdom of Israel about their rebellion against God and worship of idols like Baal.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, think of a company that initially listens carefully to its customers and grows due to this humility. But if it later starts cutting corners or pursuing harmful practices, it could face severe consequences.