Yet, before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad – in order that God's purpose in election might stand:
NIV
And the children were yet unborn and had so far done nothing either good or evil. Even so, in order further to carry out God's purpose of selection (election, choice), which depends not on works or what men can do, but on Him Who calls [them]AMP
(For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)
KJV
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble,
NIV
Because of this, brethren, be all the more solicitous and eager to make sure (to ratify, to strengthen, to make steadfast) your calling and election; for if you do this, you will never stumble or fall.
AMP
Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
KJV
As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs
NIV
From the point of view of the Gospel (good news), they [the Jews, at present] are enemies [of God], which is for your advantage and benefit. But from the point of view of God's choice (of election, of divine selection), they are still the beloved (dear to Him) for the sake of their forefathers.
AMP
As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the father's sakes.
KJV
So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.
NIV
So too at the present time there is a remnant (a small believing minority), selected (chosen) by grace (by God's unmerited favor and graciousness).
AMP
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
KJV
What then? What the people of Israel sought so earnestly they did not obtain. The elect among them did, but the others were hardened
NIV
What then [shall we conclude]? Israel failed to obtain what it sought [God's favor by obedience to the Law]. Only the elect (those chosen few) obtained it, while the rest of them became callously indifferent (blinded, hardened, and made insensible to it).
AMP
What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.
KJV
