Definition: For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Romans 9:15. It’s a really important and slightly complex verse, but we can understand it in a way that focuses on the core idea of God's mercy. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s judgment and compassion , even when he doesn’t give anyone forgiveness. It’s saying that God has the power to show mercy – to be kind and understanding – but He also has the ability to punish those who don't deserve it. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For he saith…” : This is a little tricky, but it means "God says..." or "He declares..." It’s God speaking directly to Moses (the person quoted in the verse). “…to Moses…” : This sets up the context – God is talking to Moses about something specific. “I will have mercy on whom I will have compassion on…” : This is the core of the verse. God is willing to show mercy to those who deserve it, but He's not obligated to do so. What does this mean in practice? The key part is "who I will have compassion on..." It suggests that God has a kind and forgiving heart, even towards people who are truly wicked or flawed. He can show compassion, but it’s often reserved for those who are deserving of it. Important Context - It's About the Nations: This verse is often interpreted in light of the fact that God doesn't forgive nations. The Romans were a rebellious group among the Israelites. God showed mercy to them, but He ultimately decided that they weren’t ready for full redemption (being restored to a right relationship with Him). In short, it means: God is willing to show compassion – even to those who aren't truly worthy of it – but His judgment will always be applied. Think of it like this analogy: Imagine you accidentally break someone’s favorite toy. You could offer them a sincere apology and help them repair it. But, if they refuse to take responsibility or show remorse, God might still choose to punish them for their actions. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Provide another example of how this verse applies to real-world situations?