Papua New Guinea Tok Pisin (Buk Baibel Long Tok Pisin 2008 + DC)
Dispela tok bilong King Sairus i olsem, “God, Bikpela i bosim olgeta samting long heven, na em i bin makim mi, Sairus, long kamap bosman bilong olgeta hap graun. Nau em i tokim mi long wokim wanpela haus bilong em long taun Jerusalem long distrik Juda. God, Bikpela bilong yupela Israel, em i ken i stap wantaim yupela ol manmeri bilong en. Na nau yupela i ken i go bek long Jerusalem.”
What Does This Mean?
Cyrus, the king of Persia, is saying that God has given him all the kingdoms of the earth and has told him to build a house for God in Jerusalem. He is asking anyone from God's people who wants to go and build this house to do so.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing with your friends, and the leader of the game says, 'I've been told to build a special clubhouse, and I'm inviting anyone who wants to help me build it.' That's what King Cyrus is doing. He's inviting people to help build God's house.
Historical Background
This verse is part of the book of 2 Chronicles, which was written after the Babylonian exile. The audience would have been the returning Jewish exiles. The cultural setting was one of rebuilding and restoration after a long period of captivity.
Living It Out Today
In a modern scenario, this verse can be applied to any situation where someone is given a task by a higher authority and then invites others to join in the effort. For example, a community leader might invite volunteers to help build a new community center.
God chose Cyrus because He can use anyone, even a pagan king, to fulfill His purposes. This shows God's sovereignty and His desire to restore His people.
How does this verse relate to the rebuilding of the temple?
This verse is the decree from King Cyrus allowing the Jews to return from exile and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem, marking a new phase of restoration and rebuilding for the Jewish people.
What can we learn about leadership from Cyrus' decree?
Cyrus' decree teaches us about using leadership positions to support and encourage others in fulfilling God's purposes. It highlights the importance of supporting and enabling others in their faith journeys.
How does this verse connect to the broader theme of restoration in the Bible?
This verse connects to the theme of restoration by showing how God uses unlikely means and people to bring about restoration and rebuilding, reflecting His ongoing work of restoration in the world.