2 Esdras 7:134 (also known as 4 Esdras in some versions) says: "and longsuffering, for that he long suffers those that have sinned, as his creatures;"
This verse speaks about God's attribute of longsuffering or patience. Let's break down the meaning:
"and longsuffering": This emphasizes God's patience, his willingness to endure or put up with something negative for an extended period. It's a characteristic of not being quick to anger or judgment.
"for that he long suffers those that have sinned": This explains the reason for God's longsuffering. He is patient with those who have sinned, meaning he doesn't immediately punish or destroy them. He gives them time and opportunity.
"as his creatures": This explains the reason for the patience. He suffers or endures their sin because they are his creations. There's a sense of responsibility and love inherent in the Creator-creature relationship. Because he formed them, he is patient with them, hoping for their repentance and redemption. He recognizes their inherent worth despite their flaws because they are His.
In essence, the verse suggests: God is patient with sinners, not immediately punishing them, because they are His creation. He demonstrates longsuffering towards humanity, even in their sin, due to His relationship with them as their Creator. He delays his judgment and waits for people to turn back to Him.
Context in 2 Esdras:
It's important to remember that 2 Esdras is an apocalyptic text written during a time of great suffering for the Jewish people. The author, Esdras, is wrestling with questions of justice, suffering, and God's plan. This verse, amidst the broader discussion of judgment and salvation, highlights God's mercy and patience, even amidst the overwhelming reality of human sin. It offers a hopeful perspective within a context of despair.
2 Esdras 7:134 (also known as 4 Esdras in some versions) says: "and longsuffering, for that he long suffers those that have sinned, as his creatures;"
This verse speaks about God's attribute of longsuffering or patience. Let's break down the meaning:
"and longsuffering": This emphasizes God's patience, his willingness to endure or put up with something negative for an extended period. It's a characteristic of not being quick to anger or judgment.
"for that he long suffers those that have sinned": This explains the reason for God's longsuffering. He is patient with those who have sinned, meaning he doesn't immediately punish or destroy them. He gives them time and opportunity.
"as his creatures": This explains the reason for the patience. He suffers or endures their sin because they are his creations. There's a sense of responsibility and love inherent in the Creator-creature relationship. Because he formed them, he is patient with them, hoping for their repentance and redemption. He recognizes their inherent worth despite their flaws because they are His.
In essence, the verse suggests: God is patient with sinners, not immediately punishing them, because they are His creation. He demonstrates longsuffering towards humanity, even in their sin, due to His relationship with them as their Creator. He delays his judgment and waits for people to turn back to Him.
Context in 2 Esdras:
It's important to remember that 2 Esdras is an apocalyptic text written during a time of great suffering for the Jewish people. The author, Esdras, is wrestling with questions of justice, suffering, and God's plan. This verse, amidst the broader discussion of judgment and salvation, highlights God's mercy and patience, even amidst the overwhelming reality of human sin. It offers a hopeful perspective within a context of despair.