This verse from 2 Maccabees 15:8 is a powerful call to courage and faith in the face of overwhelming odds. Let's break it down:
"And he exhorted his company..." This sets the scene: the verse describes someone in a leadership position, likely a military leader, addressing his troops. "Exhorted" means strongly urged, encouraged, or advised.
"...not to be fearful at the inroad of the heathen..." The "heathen" refers to the enemy forces who are considered to be outside the Jewish faith. "Inroad" suggests an invasion or attack. So, the leader is telling his soldiers not to be afraid of the enemy's advance.
"...but, keeping in mind the help which of old they had oftentimes received from heaven..." This is the core of the encouragement. The leader reminds his soldiers of their history, specifically times when they believed they were miraculously saved or aided by God (referred to as "heaven"). He is emphasizing that they have a track record of divine assistance.
"...so now also to look for the victory which would come to them from the Almighty." Based on their past experiences of divine help, the leader is urging them to expect a similar victory now. He attributes this potential victory to "the Almighty," a reference to God, emphasizing His power and ability to intervene.
In essence, the verse is a message of hope and faith during a time of crisis. The leader is trying to boost the morale of his troops by reminding them that they are not alone and that God has helped them in the past, thus they should trust that God will help them in the present situation as well.
This verse from 2 Maccabees 15:8 is a powerful call to courage and faith in the face of overwhelming odds. Let's break it down:
"And he exhorted his company..." This sets the scene: the verse describes someone in a leadership position, likely a military leader, addressing his troops. "Exhorted" means strongly urged, encouraged, or advised.
"...not to be fearful at the inroad of the heathen..." The "heathen" refers to the enemy forces who are considered to be outside the Jewish faith. "Inroad" suggests an invasion or attack. So, the leader is telling his soldiers not to be afraid of the enemy's advance.
"...but, keeping in mind the help which of old they had oftentimes received from heaven..." This is the core of the encouragement. The leader reminds his soldiers of their history, specifically times when they believed they were miraculously saved or aided by God (referred to as "heaven"). He is emphasizing that they have a track record of divine assistance.
"...so now also to look for the victory which would come to them from the Almighty." Based on their past experiences of divine help, the leader is urging them to expect a similar victory now. He attributes this potential victory to "the Almighty," a reference to God, emphasizing His power and ability to intervene.
In essence, the verse is a message of hope and faith during a time of crisis. The leader is trying to boost the morale of his troops by reminding them that they are not alone and that God has helped them in the past, thus they should trust that God will help them in the present situation as well.
