For if ye turn again unto the LORD, your brethren and your children shall find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again into this land: for the LORD your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return unto him.
If you turn back to the LORD, your relatives and children will find mercy from those who have taken them captive, and they will be allowed to return to this land. The LORD your God is kind and merciful, and he will not turn away from you if you come back to him.
God promises that if his people return to him, he will show mercy and bring their captive family members home because he is gracious and never rejects those who truly come back to him.
📚 Historical Context
King Hezekiah was sending messengers throughout Israel and Judah, inviting people to return to Jerusalem for Passover after years of idol worship and spiritual decline. Many Israelites had been taken into captivity by the Assyrians, and families were separated and scattered. This promise was given during Hezekiah's religious reforms around 715 BC, offering hope that repentance could lead to restoration and reunion.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.