De ce călcați acuma oare, Jertfele Mele, în picioare? De ce călcați daruri ce sânt Aduse la locașul sfânt, După poruncile-așezate Și după legile lăsate? Dar cum se face că-ndrăznești Ca pe ai tăi fii să-i cinstești Cu mult mai mult, decât pe Mine, Ca să vă meargă vouă bine, Ca să mâncați pe săturate, Din roadele întâi luate, Să vă-ngrășați pe nesimțite, Din lucrurile dăruite De către-al Meu popor, mereu?
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, God is addressing Eli, the high priest, and his sons. He is upset because they are not respecting His sacrifices and offerings and are using their positions for personal gain instead of serving God.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a piggy bank where you save your allowance for something important. But your friend comes and takes your money to buy candy for himself. That's kind of what God is upset about here. He had set aside special offerings for Himself, but Eli’s sons were taking them for themselves instead of using them the way God wanted.
Historical Background
This verse is from the Book of Samuel, which was likely written by the prophet Samuel, Nathan, and Gad. It is set during the time of the early Israelite monarchy, where Eli, a high priest, and his sons were misusing their positions of power and influence.
Living It Out Today
In modern terms, imagine if a church leader was using church funds for a lavish lifestyle instead of for ministry and community support. This verse reminds us to use our positions and resources responsibly, not for personal gain but for the greater good.