Papua New Guinea Tok Pisin (Buk Baibel Long Tok Pisin 2008 + DC)
Na Bikpela i tokim ol manmeri bilong Israel olsem, “Taun Jerusalem em i olsem mama bilong yupela. Yupela i ting mi bin givim baksait olgeta long en olsem man i save katim marit na rausim meri bilong en i go olgeta, a? Sapos yupela i ting olsem, orait we stap pepa i gat tok olsem, mi bin rausim em olgeta? Na tu, mi no gat dinau long wanpela man. Olsem na bilong wanem yupela i ting olsem, mi bin salim yupela ol pikinini bilong mi olsem wokboi nating long ol arapela man, bilong mi ken kisim mani bilong stretim dispela dinau? Nogat tru. Ol planti sin bilong yupela tasol i mekim mi i belhat, na mi bin givim baksait long Jerusalem na mi bin putim yupela long han bilong ol arapela man.
What Does This Mean?
In Isaiah 50:1, God is speaking to the people of Israel, asking why they think He has divorced or sold them. The message is that they are not abandoned because of God's actions but because of their own sins.
Explained for Children
Imagine you lost a toy because you didn't take care of it. God is saying, 'I didn't lose you; you lost yourselves by not following the rules.'
Historical Background
The verse was written by the prophet Isaiah around 700 BCE, addressing the people of Israel. At that time, the idea of divorce was common, and the concept of being sold into slavery due to debts was a reality in the ancient Near East.
Living It Out Today
Today, if someone feels abandoned or punished, this verse can help them understand that often, the consequences we face are due to our own actions, not God's abandonment.
God is using the metaphor of divorce to show that He has not abandoned His people, but the people's actions have led to a separation.
How do we understand the concept of selling in this verse?
The selling metaphor refers to the consequences of sin, where the people's actions have led to a state of slavery or captivity, not because of God's actions.
What does this verse teach about personal responsibility?
This verse emphasizes that individuals are responsible for their own actions and the consequences that follow, rather than blaming God.
How can this verse be used in a youth group discussion?
It can help young people understand the importance of their choices and the direct impact these have on their lives and relationships, especially with God.