“far...near.” This is an example of how the concepts of being “far away” or “near” to someone were important in the biblical culture. With no long-range communication, getting to be “near” someone was a privilege and honor. This shows up with God but is often veiled in translation. For example, when it comes to God, people were to mainly “come near” to Him with an offering or sacrifice. For example, Leviticus 1:2 could be translated, “If any man of you comes near with an offering,” because the word usually translated “brings” means to approach or come near. Because of the work of Christ, people who were “far” from God are brought “near” (Eph. 2:13).

[For more on coming near to God, see commentary on Lev. 1:2.]