Definition: (For [the children] being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Romans 9:11. It's a really important and somewhat complex passage about God’s plan and how He chooses who gets into Heaven. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it means that God has a special plan for some people to go to Heaven, but not because they’ve done good or bad. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For [the children]” : This refers to all humanity – meaning every person who ever was and will be. It's not just about babies; it applies to everyone. “Being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil…” : This is the core of the verse. God isn’t judging people based on their past actions. He’s looking at potential . He’s saying that these children haven't lived a life filled with righteousness or good deeds yet . They haven’t yet earned a place in Heaven. “That the purpose of God according to election might stand…” : This is where it gets a little tricky, but it means God has decided who will be saved and who won't be. "Election" is a fancy word that means God chooses people for His plan. It’s like He’s picking individuals based on something He sees as good in them. “Not of works, but of him that calleth…” : This is the crucial part. God isn’t choosing people because they are good or doing good deeds. Instead, God chooses people because He decides to choose them. It's about a special, divine plan – He has a reason for this choice. “Calleth” means “chooses” or “selects.” So, what does it all mean in a nutshell? It’s saying that God has a plan for some people to go to Heaven, and that plan is based on His will and judgment, not on anything they've done. He's choosing certain individuals – those who haven't lived a perfect life yet – to enter into eternity with Him. Important Note: This verse is often misunderstood. It doesn’t mean God rejects all of humanity. He loves everyone , but He chooses to grant Heaven to some people because of His plan and understanding of what is good. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give an example of why it's a complex passage? Talk about the theological implications of this verse (like its connection to our concept of grace)?