Nehemiah 1:9
But if ye turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set my name there.
Nehemiah 1:9 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Old Testament book of 2 Chronicles emphasizes the importance of repentance and obedience to God's commandments. It illustrates God's unwavering love and forgiveness for those who turn back to Him and follow His ways. The verse assures that no matter how far we may have strayed or how dire our circumstances may seem, God is always ready to gather us back to Himself. It emphasizes His faithfulness and commitment to His people, promising to bring them to the place He has chosen to set His name there. This verse serves as a reminder of God's grace and mercy, encouraging believers to turn to Him in obedience and trust that He will deliver them from any situation and bring them into His presence.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of 2 Chronicles speaks to the faithfulness and mercy of God. In this passage, the Lord promises that if His people turn back to Him, keep His commandments, and do them, He will gather them from even the farthest reaches of the earth and bring them to the place He has chosen for His name to dwell. This serves as a reminder of God's unfailing love and desire for reconciliation with His people. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights God's willingness to forgive and restore those who repent and seek His ways. The emphasis on obedience to His commandments underscores the importance of living in alignment with God's will. Through this promise, we see God's redemptive power at work, offering hope and a way back to Him for those who have strayed. This verse serves as a comforting reminder of God's faithfulness and grace, urging us to return to Him and trust in His promises.
Nehemiah 1:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
but if ye return unto me, and keep my commandments and do them, though your outcasts were in the uttermost part of the heavens, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen, to cause my name to dwell there.
World English Bible
but if you return to me, and keep my commandments and do them, though your outcasts were in the uttermost part of the heavens, yet will I gather them from there, and will bring them to the place that I have chosen, to cause my name to dwell there.’
Douay-Rheims
But if you return to me, and keep my commandments, and do them, though you should be led away to the uttermost parts of the world, I will gather you from thence, and bring you back to the place which I have chosen for my name to dwell there.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But if ye turne vnto me, and keepe my commandements, and doe them, though your scattering were to the vttermost part of the heauen, yet will I gather you from thence, and will bring you vnto the place that I haue chosen to place my Name there.