Revelation 9:20
Arabic GOV (الكتاب المقدس العهد الجديد، النسخة الارثوذكسية القدس)
أَمَّا سَائِرُ النَّاسِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يُقْتَلوا بِهَذِهِ الضَّرَبَاتِ فَلَمْ يَتُوبُوا مِنْ أَعْمَالِ أيْدِيهِمْ وَظَلُّوا يَسْجُدُونَ للشَّيَاطِينِ وَالأَوْثَانِ مِنَ الذَّهَبِ وَالفِضَّةِ وَالنُّحَاسِ وَالحَجَرِ وَالخَشَبِ الَّتِي لاَ تَسْتَطِيعُ أَنْ تُبْصِرَ أَوْ تَسْمَعَ أَوْ تَمْشِي
What Does This Mean?
This verse says that despite being spared from deadly plagues, people still didn't change their bad ways and continued to worship false gods made of materials like gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood, which cannot do anything on their own.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you had a toy car, but it couldn’t move or talk. This verse is saying that even though people were spared from scary things happening around them, they still chose to worship toys like this instead of the real God who can actually help them.
Historical Background
The book of Revelation was written by John, an apostle, around the end of the first century AD. It was directed at early Christian communities facing persecution and hardship under Roman rule, highlighting themes of endurance and faithfulness amidst trials.
Living It Out Today
Today, this verse can remind us that even when we face difficult situations, it's easy to rely on things that cannot truly help us instead of God. For instance, someone might lean on money or power during tough times rather than turning to God for support and guidance.
Topics
worshipidolatryperseverancerepentancejudgmentfaithfulness
Related Verses
Exodus 20:3-51 Corinthians 8:4-6Psalm 115:4-7Isaiah 44:9-20Romans 1:22-25
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people continue to worship false gods even when they see the consequences?
People may choose to worship false gods due to a lack of understanding about true faith, cultural practices, or emotional attachments. The verse shows that sometimes even dramatic events don't lead to change without genuine spiritual transformation.
How can we apply this lesson in today's world?
We can avoid the mistake of putting our trust in material things and instead focus on developing a deeper faith in God. This means recognizing what truly matters beyond physical possessions or achievements.
What are some examples of modern idols people might worship?
Modern idols could include money, fame, power, technology, or any other obsession that distracts from true spiritual values and can take the place of God in one's life.
How does this verse relate to perseverance during hard times?
This verse illustrates how people might not change their ways even when facing difficult circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of steadfast faith, reminding us that true endurance involves trusting God despite challenges.