Definition: But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by [them that are] no people, [and] by a foolish nation I will anger you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Romans 10:19. It's a really interesting and slightly poetic piece about God’s desire for a relationship with humanity. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God wants to be involved with people – particularly those who aren’t considered “people” by tradition or culture – and he’s actively provoking anger and disappointment in them. It's like God is gently nudging people towards a deeper connection. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But I say..." : This is a way of acknowledging that the verse might seem difficult to understand, but the point is important. The speaker is trying to soften the message and make it relatable. "...Did not Israel know?" : This refers to Israel – the ancient Israelites. They were a group of people who weren’t considered “people” by many other nations at the time. They were often treated as less than fully recognized. "[them that are] no people..." : This means they were a marginalized, forgotten group. They didn't have the same status or recognition as others. "...and [they] will anger you." : This is the core of the verse. God wants to be angered by these groups because he wants them to experience a deeper awareness and connection with him. He’s not necessarily angry at them, but rather challenging them to reconsider their perspective. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to our potential for spiritual growth. It encourages us to: Seek God: We should always be open to connecting with the divine – whether through prayer, worship, or simply seeking understanding and truth. Don’t Dismiss Others: It reminds us that everyone has value and deserves a chance to be known and appreciated by God. Be Open to God's Purpose: It suggests that God has a plan for our lives and that he wants to reach those who are often overlooked. In short, it’s a call to actively seek God and recognize the importance of connecting with all people – even those who don’t fit neatly into our expectations. --- To help me explain this verse in a way that's best for you, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand about this verse? (Are you struggling with it? Do you want a more practical application?)