Definition: And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to [our] father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 3:9. It's a really interesting and slightly mysterious verse! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about the potential for God to work through ordinary objects – stones – to bring about a significant future event. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to [our] father…” - This is where it gets a little tricky. The speaker (likely Jesus) is saying, “Don't think you know about Abraham! He’s our father.” Now, the word "father" in this context isn't just about biological parents. It refers to God Himself. “…for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.” - This is the crucial part. Jesus is saying that God – not just Abraham – has the ability to create new life and bring forth children through ordinary things like stones. He’s suggesting that God can work in a way that isn't always obvious or immediate, but that it's possible for him to accomplish something grand. So, what does this mean? It's often interpreted as a promise of future salvation and the coming of Jesus Christ. It suggests: God’s Sovereignty: God is in control of everything, even seemingly small things like stones. Transformation Through Ordinary Things: Jesus isn't just talking about miracles – he's saying that God can work through the world around us to bring about a transformation and new beginnings. Hope for the Future: It’s a message of hope, suggesting that God is working towards a future where things will be more significant than we can currently imagine. Important Note: This passage is often debated and interpreted in different ways. Some see it as a subtle foreshadowing of Jesus' coming, while others view it as a straightforward statement about God’s power. In short, this verse highlights that God has the potential to work powerfully through ordinary things to bring about something extraordinary. --- Do you have any specific questions about this passage or would you like me to delve deeper into any particular aspect of it? For example: Are you curious about its historical context? Would you like me to explain a related concept (like the idea of "theological significance")?