[B-Greek] Romans 9:22: Concessive or Causal?
Harold R. Holmyard III
hholmyard at ont.com
Fri Jan 23 17:23:48 EST 2004
Dear Kevin,
>In Romans 9:22, Paul uses "qelwn," which I've seen translated "although
>willing" in some versions and "because willing" in others. I can't decide
>which is more likely to be the correct translation; Moo argues for causal
>because of the context of Pharaoh's hardening and the parallels with v.
>17-18; Robertson argues for concessive because of the use of "en pollh
>makroqumiai." Any advice?
I think that the concessive gives a richer meaning and a smoother thought
flow in the section. A complainant asks why God finds fault (v, 19),
referring to God's treatment of Pharaoh (vv. 17-18). Paul responds that the
creature shouldn't question Creator's activity (v. 20). He also defends God
generally: doesn't the Potter have the right to make of a lump of clay one
vessel for honor and one for dishonor? (v. 21). Then Paul defends God
specifically. Though God was willing to do what verses 17-18 speak of, He
actually demonstrated great patience with vessels that were suited for
destruction (v. 22). And He did what He did in order to reveal the wealth
of His glory to vessels of mercy prepared beforehand for glory (v. 23). In
answer to the complainant, Paul says that God acted with notable
forbearance towards Pharaoh and demonstrated wrath and power for the
purpose of exercising mercy towards another party (that was under Pharaoh's
heel).
Yours,
Harold Holmyard
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