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NASB | Romans 11:25 ¶ For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery--so that you will not be wise in your own estimation--that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Romans 11:25 ¶ I do not want you, believers, to be unaware of this mystery [God's previously hidden plan]--so that you will not be wise in your own opinion--that a partial hardening has [temporarily] happened to Israel [to last] until the full number of the Gentiles has come in; |
Bible Question:
Most Christians I meet talk in terms of mankind going to be with God. But the Bible always speaks in terms of God desiring to make His dwelling with mankind. It is a subtle point, but an important one to look into, I believe. It is not simply being with God -- the direction is important. How many people picture us being in Heaven with God and singing worship songs all day in white clothes? Oh, and don't forget that personal mansion that we are all suppose to have. In reading the Bible we are presented with a picture of God seeking to dwell with mankind. The whole purpose of the Temple, sacrifices, and Law of Moses was to paint a picture of a holy, loving, merciful God seeking to be among His people. The New Testament continues this picture with the Messiah being with us, and then Revelation speaking in the same language. When we in our language flip this direction we are in danger of developing theological beliefs that are contrary to reality. How would our understandings of God and therefore our actions change if we thought primarily of God coming down to dwell among us? |
Bible Answer: God does make his dwelling with us--in us--our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. We are going to be with God in heaven: "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." John 14:2 The thought I embrace is, Jesus could come at any moment for His Bride, so you had better be close enough to God so you can hear that trumpet! Janae. |