Definition: For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Romans 11:30. It's a really powerful and often misunderstood passage about the future of humanity and faith. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about how God’s mercy – His love and forgiveness – is offered to those who don’t believe Him yet. It’s a bit like a seed that hasn't sprouted yet, but still has the potential to grow into something beautiful. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For as ye in times past have not believed God…” – This refers to people who haven’t acknowledged or accepted God’s existence and His promises. Think of them as someone who hasn’t even started to look for the good in life. It's about a lack of faith – a rejection of God's power and guidance. “…yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:” - This is the key part. "Mercy" means forgiveness, compassion, and kindness. “Obtained” means received or earned . It’s not that they’ve deserved it; it's that God has given them a chance to change. They’ve lost the opportunity to accept His grace. So, what does this all mean in practice? This verse is saying: God doesn’t give up on people who aren’t ready to believe. He's offering a second chance – a door to salvation – to those who haven’t embraced Him yet. It acknowledges that even those who don’t understand the importance of faith can still be saved. Why is this important? Hope for the Future: It emphasizes that God’s mercy isn't just about forgiveness now . It’s about a future where people will come to believe and experience His grace. The Importance of Initial Belief: It suggests that initial belief, even if it's flawed or incomplete, is crucial for the ultimate outcome – a restored relationship with God. In short, this verse highlights that God’s love isn't just about those who do believe, but also about those who don’t, offering them a chance to be saved through His mercy. --- Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2011%2C30](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2011%2C30) GotQuestions.org: [https://www.gotquestions.org/Romans-11-30.html](https://www.gotquestions.org/Romans-11-30.html) Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or example?