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What We Learn From God’s Permission of EvilUnited in Worship of the Only True God
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8. What additional factors does Paul urge us to consider?
8 In his letter to the Romans, the apostle Paul raises the question: “Is there injustice with God?” And then he answers by emphasizing God’s mercy and by referring to what Jehovah said to Pharaoh. He also calls to mind the fact that we humans are like clay in the hands of a potter. Does the clay complain about the use to which it is put? Paul adds: “If, now, God, although having the will to demonstrate his wrath and to make his power known, tolerated with much long-suffering vessels of wrath made fit for destruction, in order that he might make known the riches of his glory upon vessels of mercy, which he prepared beforehand for glory, namely, us, whom he called not only from among Jews but also from among nations, what of it?”—Rom. 9:14-24.
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What We Learn From God’s Permission of EvilUnited in Worship of the Only True God
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10. Why has Jehovah continued to tolerate the wicked during the past 1,900 years?
10 During the more than 1,900 years since Jesus’ resurrection Jehovah has tolerated further the “vessels of wrath,” holding off their destruction. Why? Because he has been preparing the secondary part of the woman’s seed, those who are to be associated with Jesus Christ in his heavenly Kingdom. (Gal. 3:29) These ones, 144,000 in number, are the “vessels of mercy” spoken of by the apostle Paul. First, individuals from among the Jews were invited to make up this class. Then the circumcised Samaritans were added and, finally, people of the Gentile nations. With much long-suffering Jehovah has worked out his purpose, forcing no one to serve him, but bestowing grand blessings on those who responded appreciatively to his loving provisions. Now the preparation of that heavenly class is nearly complete.
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