AMP and RVR 1960
CONTEXT:
As a immature Christian I remember reading Romans 3:10–12 where Paul is quoting Psalm 14:2-3; at about the same time our Pastor was going through a study on the Book of Isaiah. When he go to our text I was thinking the bible contradicts itself right?
Of course not! CONTEXT, is everything and in both cases the Lord being near is key. In Psalm 14 and Romans 3, He is looking upon man that is casting His gaze and influence over. In our text He is near enough to be found.
There is no contradiction when it is God offering His mercy and Grace freely.
BREAKDOWN:
Seek ye the Lord – Not for blessings and favors but for redemption and Salvation
while he may be found – When can God be found? The Holy Spirit convicts man of sin John 16:8 and as Romans 1 says all mankind are without excuse.
call ye upon him – That is to cast ourselves as lowly sinners wholly upon His mercy and Grace.
while he is near – God is a patient and loving God, but like all Fathers will only put up with so much, He extends His generous offer of Grace for only so long before allowing us to go our own way Romans 1:18-32.
APPLICATION:
When God calls we need to be ready to listen. Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:2 again quoting Isaiah, this time 49:8 says, this reconciliation to God has an expiration date, its a limited time offer. There is a time that is “favorable or acceptable” and we need be ready to take advantage of God’s offer on that Day.
