Definition: For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and understand with [their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 28:27. It's a really interesting passage about how the Jewish people were reacting to Paul’s ministry. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Paul is saying that the Jewish people – specifically, the people he was trying to reach with his teachings – are completely disconnected from God and from truth. They've become closed off to understanding and faith. They’re not truly seeing , hearing , or understanding what God wants them to know. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For the heart of this people is waxed gross…” : "Waxed gross" means hardened, covered over, and unresponsive. It's like a layer of something that blocks out light. It suggests a lack of spiritual awareness. "...and their ears are dull of hearing..." : This means they’ve lost the ability to listen for God’s voice in their lives. They’re not open to receiving His message. "...and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and understand with [their] heart..." : This is the crucial part. Paul is urging them to open their eyes and open their ears. It’s a call to see God's truth and hear His word. If they don't, they won’t be able to understand or be changed. "...and should be converted, and I should heal them." : This is the ultimate hope – Paul wants to bring these people back to a relationship with God! If they open their eyes and ears, they will be receptive to his message and, ultimately, be healed (saved) from their spiritual blindness. In short: Paul is warning these Jewish people that they are spiritually closed off and needs to be opened up to God's truth through understanding and faith. What does this have to do with Paul? This verse highlights Paul’s strategy – he uses compelling preaching and teaching to challenge the status quo and awaken them to the need for a change of heart. He’s essentially saying, "I see you, and I understand you. It's time for you to turn back to God." Important Note: This is from an ancient text, so it’s often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of spiritual apathy or complacency. --- Would you like me to: Explain any part in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse applies to modern situations?