~ The Answer Might Surprise You ~
This is an interesting and complex question. Scripture is clear that our God is an unchanging God; however, on one hand we read that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8), but there are some other accounts in the Word of God which appear to contradict this. We read passages which state outright that God changed His mind (Exodus 32 for example).
Comparing these and other passages could cause one to question some of the beliefs of the Christian faith. For example, we believe the Bible was inspired, literally “God-breathed,” and is without error in the original manuscripts. We believe that God is completely consistent and cannot lie (Hebrews 6:18). We also believe that God is all-knowing—“omniscient.” God is not bound as we are by time and space—He can move forward through time instantaneously.
Another aspect of this question is with regard to prayer. If God does not change His mind, then why do we pray? What is the purpose of prayer if everything has already been determined?
The Explanation ~ It is important to recognize that while the Scripture is perfect in its original form, it has been translated by imperfect humans over the centuries—sometimes with gross errors, sometimes with minor problems, and often with difficulty in transferring the correct thought from one language to another. This is key. In many instances where modern translations say God changed His mind or that God repented of His prior decision, it is due to translation problems. The Hebrew word
nacham (“nawkam”), often translated into English as “changed His mind” or “repented,” is an incomplete translation. A more correct English wording would be “made a change in direction.” In other words while the original manuscripts are faultless, translators and language equivalency can be faulty! This can make a huge difference. To say someone changed his mind is quite different than saying someone changed direction.
Another key is to realize that when God says He does not change He is referring to His nature and His absolute decrees. Since He has given free will to mankind, He often allows us the choice of obeying and being blessed or going our own way and reaping the consequences.
God will not change His mind in reference to His oaths or outright decrees (Psalm 110:4 is an example). In instances of God providing direction, He often states the results of disobedience. In situations where human free will is involved, He leaves open a “change in direction” if there is obedience. This concept also provides insight into why we are commanded to pray. James 5:16 tells us prayer can achieve much.
Exodus 32 and other similar passages should be understood with these factors in mind. In the original language God tells Moses he may as well get out of there because at this point God planned to destroy the people because of their ongoing worship of idols. Such worship was something He had previously said was a capital offense (Exodus 22:20). It was as if God was providing a test for Moses.
Moses’ actions showed he did really care and love the people. Moses responded in prayer, earnestly pleading with God for the lives of the people. He responded with spiritual leadership and took his responsibilities seriously. It was on this basis that God instituted a change of direction—from what He had warned Moses was going to happen.
Earlier God had not made a final decision but had outlined to Moses the course of action currently in place. Moses responded appropriately, and therefore God was able to change His direction while remaining true to His nature. Part of the mystery in all this is that we know that God knows the end as well as He does the beginning—yet interwoven is the free will of man, in this case the free will of Moses.
Rather than a case of God not following through with His commandments, Exodus 32 actually shows a fulfillment of God’s earlier promises to show love and kindness to His people when they turn from their sin and approach Him in humility and obedience.
Consider two additional factors. First, God through His Word sometimes communicates with us through the use of
anthropomorphism—using illustrations that fit our human understanding. Second, God, by definition, is so complex and above our full comprehension that we will never completely understand Him this side of heaven.
Summary ~ Does God change His mind? Not in the sense in which the question usually refers!
Does God change His direction and His actions based on the choices we make? Yes.
Does God know ahead of time what decisions and actions we will take? Yes.
Is God’s nature and character absolutely constant and unchanging? Yes!
