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1 Samuel 12:15

But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as it was against your fathers.

1 Samuel 12:15 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse serves as a warning to those who choose to rebel against the commandments of the Lord. It emphasizes the consequences of disobedience and rebellion, stating that the hand of the Lord will be against them. The reference to "your fathers" serves as a reminder of past events where the disobedience of previous generations led to the hand of the Lord being against them. By highlighting this historical context, the verse reinforces the importance of obedience and following the commandments of the Lord. It also emphasizes the continuity of God's judgment and his expectations for his people to remain faithful. This verse ultimately calls for reverence and obedience to God's word, as disobedience will result in facing the consequences of going against his will.

Theological Overview

It is important to note the gravity of disobedience and rebellion against the Lord as outlined in this verse. The theological interpretation of this passage emphasizes the concept of obedience to God's commands as a foundational principle of faith. The consequences of not obeying the voice of the Lord are severe, as seen through the reference to the hand of the Lord being against those who rebel. This imagery conveys the idea of divine judgment and intervention in response to disobedience. Furthermore, the mention of the forebears facing similar consequences serves as a warning and a reminder of the importance of learning from past mistakes. In terms of word studies, the emphasis on the word 'voice' highlights the significance of actively listening and heeding God's instructions. The repetition of the phrase 'the commandment of the Lord' underscores the authority and importance of following God's decrees. Ultimately, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the imperative of submitting to God's will.

1 Samuel 12:15 in other translations

American Standard Version

but if ye will not hearken unto the voice of Jehovah, but rebel against the commandment of Jehovah, then will the hand of Jehovah be against you, as it was against your fathers.

World English Bible

But if you will not listen to the voice of Yahweh, but rebel against the commandment of Yahweh, then will the hand of Yahweh be against you, as it was against your fathers.

Douay-Rheims

But if you will not hearken to the voice of the Lord, but will rebel against his words, the hand of the Lord shall be upon you, and upon your fathers.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But if yee will not obey the voyce of the Lord, but disobey the Lordes mouth, then shall the hand of the Lord be vpon you, and on your fathers.