Definition: Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing [is] God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Corinthians 5:5. It’s a really interesting and somewhat complex idea, but I'll try to explain it in a way that's easy to understand. Here’s what it means, broken down piece by piece: 1. "Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing…" "Hath wrought" : This is a bit of an old-fashioned phrase – it means “created” or “made.” “For the selfsame thing” : This is the key part. It's saying that God intended this whole situation, this purpose for our existence, to be something like this. It’s not just random; there’s a plan behind it. 2. "...is God..." This immediately tells us we’re talking about God – the creator of everything. 3. “…who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.” “The earnest of the Spirit” : This is where it gets a bit more nuanced. “Earnest” means something precious, significant, or vital. So, "the earnest of the Spirit" refers to something that God has given to us. It’s not just any spirit; it's a special kind of spirit – a spiritual life. “Given unto us” : This emphasizes that God didn’t simply create us; He gave us this spiritual gift, this way of being alive and connected to the divine. Putting it all together - The Overall Meaning: This verse is saying that God has a plan for our lives – a purpose for us. He isn't just creating us as individuals; He’s creating us as people who are connected to something greater , a life of faith and relationship with Him. In simpler terms, it means we weren't created simply to live our own lives, but to be part of God's plan for humanity. It suggests that our purpose is not just about surviving, but about participating in a larger divine reality. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the idea of salvation – being rescued from sin and given new life through Christ. It highlights that we are created with a spiritual purpose and are meant to live a life that reflects God’s love and will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give an example of how this verse might relate to our lives?