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Book of Hebrews - Chapter 3 - Verse 17

3:17
But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?

Meaning

This verse refers to a period in the Bible when the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years. During this time, God was grieved by the Israelites who continuously sinned and rebelled against Him. The verse highlights that those who sinned faced consequences, as many of them died in the wilderness due to their disobedience. God's grief with the Israelites serves as a lesson to all believers about the importance of obedience and faithfulness. It teaches us that God is just and expects us to follow His commandments. The verse encourages reflection on our own actions and reminds us of the consequences of straying from God's path. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for repentance and staying faithful to God in order to avoid His displeasure.

Theological Overview

When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse in question, it is essential to understand the context in which it was written. The verse is referring to God's frustration and anger towards the Israelites during their forty years in the wilderness. The word "grieved" here signifies not just a feeling of sadness, but also a deep sense of disappointment and dissatisfaction. The Israelites had sinned repeatedly in their disobedience and lack of faith towards God, which ultimately led to their deaths in the wilderness. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's path and the importance of obedience and faith in His guidance. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the meaning of 'grieved' and 'carcases' to gain a better understanding of the severity of the Israelites' actions and God's response to them. By reflecting on this verse, we are encouraged to remain steadfast in our faith and obedience to God, knowing that He is a God of justice and mercy.

American Standard Version

And with whom was he displeased forty years? was it not with them that sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness?
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