Definition: Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Romans 9:19. It’s a really complex verse, and it deals with the idea of God's plan and whether people are truly free to choose good or bad. Here’s my explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is asking a crucial question about God’s plan – how he wants things to happen in the world. It’s essentially saying, “Even though people might criticize God's plans, does God really need them to be happy?” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault?” – This is a rhetorical question, meaning it’s designed to make you think. The person who is questioning God’s plan is asking you – the reader – why God hasn't already made a better plan. “For who hath resisted his will?” – This is the core of the verse. “Will” here refers to God's purpose, His intentions, or what He wants to accomplish in the world. The question is: "Who is resisting his will?" Now, let’s consider what this means: Think about it like this: God has a plan for everything – from creating the universe to guiding humanity. That plan might involve certain things happening, or not happening, at different times. God's Plan is Good (In His Own Way): The verse suggests that even though people might disagree with God’s plans, He still has a good reason for them to continue unfolding. It’s a process driven by love and purpose. Free Will – A Big Deal: The key point is that humans have free will – the ability to choose between good and bad. God gives us this choice. If someone doesn't choose to do what God wants, then it means they aren’t truly acting in accordance with His plan. So, What Does This Mean for Us? The verse is a reminder of our responsibility as humans. We are free to choose, and we have the ability to reject God's will. It’s a call to be thoughtful about our choices and consider whether they align with what God wants for the world. Important Note: It doesn’t mean that people always have to rebel against God’s plans. God allows things to happen, even if we don't understand them or agree with them. The verse is about resistance – our unwillingness to accept what God has in mind. --- To help me explain it better for you, could you tell me: What are you hoping to learn from this passage? (e.g., understanding the concept of free will?) Are there any specific aspects of the verse that you're finding confusing?