Pathfinder Bible Experience (PBE) – Isaiah 1-33 Practice Exam

In Isaiah 9:10, the verse depicts a sense of defiance and resilience among the people of Israel after facing destruction, symbolized by the cutting down of trees. The correct completion of the phrase, "The sycamores are cut down, but we will replace them with cedars," highlights the intention to not only endure the loss but also to replace what has been taken away with something of greater strength or stature, which in this case are cedars.

Sycamores might represent what was commonly found and thus easily damaged or destroyed, while cedars often symbolize durability and majesty in the biblical context. This reflects an attitude of optimism and determination, suggesting that although they have faced calamity, they plan to rebuild and improve their situation. The imagery of replacing ordinary trees with more valuable ones resonates deeply with the theme of restoration found throughout the Book of Isaiah.

The other options do not align with the exact wording of the scripture or the thematic elements present in Isaiah 9:10. Each focuses on different types of trees or actions that do not capture the same essence of replacement or resilience as the correct choice does.