Final Answer:
"God chose to enter into a covenantal relationship with the people of Israel, but the people’s sins were preventing them from drawing near to God" is True becuase it is reflecting a theological understanding present in biblical narratives about the covenant between God and the people of Israel.
Step-by-step explanation:
The covenantal relationship between God and the people of Israel is a central theme in biblical narratives, particularly in the Old Testament. The covenant was a sacred agreement, and God's choice to establish this covenant underscores a special connection with the Israelites. However, the people's sins, as portrayed in various biblical accounts, did present obstacles to their proximity to God. The concept of sin, in this context, refers to actions or behaviors that violate the moral and religious principles set by God. These transgressions created a separation between the people and God, hindering the closeness intended in the covenant.
In the Old Testament, instances of disobedience, idolatry, and moral lapses among the Israelites are frequently depicted. These sinful actions were seen as a barrier to the fulfillment of the covenant's intended relationship. The narrative often emphasizes the need for repentance and adherence to God's commandments to restore the connection between God and the people. Thus, the assertion that the people's sins were preventing them from drawing near to God aligns with the theological narratives present in biblical texts.
Understanding the dynamics of the covenantal relationship and the consequences of sin provides a broader context for appreciating the complexities of the divine-human connection in biblical theology. It underscores the significance of repentance and righteousness as essential components for maintaining a close relationship with the divine, as portrayed in the religious narratives of the Old Testament.