The concept of the elusiveness of God is a theme that runs throughout the Bible, reflecting the mystery and transcendence of the Divine. This elusiveness is not indicative of God's absence or indifference but rather highlights His incomprehensible nature and the limitations of human understanding.

Biblical Instances of Elusiveness

1. God's Hiddenness: In Isaiah 45:15, the prophet declares, "Truly You are a God who hides Himself, O God of Israel, the Savior." This verse captures the paradox of a God who is both Savior and yet hidden, emphasizing the mystery of His ways and purposes.

2. Theophanies and Visions: Throughout the Old Testament, God often reveals Himself through theophanies—visible manifestations that are temporary and partial. For instance, in Exodus 33:20, God tells Moses, "You cannot see My face, for no one can see Me and live." This underscores the idea that God's full essence is beyond human comprehension.

3. Parables and Teachings of Jesus: In the New Testament, Jesus often spoke in parables, which can be seen as a form of divine elusiveness. In Matthew 13:13, Jesus explains, "This is why I speak to them in parables: 'Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.'" The parables reveal truths to those who seek earnestly while concealing them from those who are indifferent.

Theological Implications

1. Transcendence and Immanence: God's elusiveness is a reflection of His transcendence—He is above and beyond all creation. Yet, He is also immanent, present, and active within the world. This duality is seen in Acts 17:27, where Paul states, "God intended that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us."

2. Faith and Trust: The elusiveness of God calls believers to a deeper faith and trust. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This faith is not based on visible evidence but on the trustworthiness of God's character and promises.

3. The Role of Revelation: While God is elusive, He has chosen to reveal Himself through Scripture, creation, and ultimately through Jesus Christ. John 1:18 states, "No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God and is at the Father’s side, has made Him known." Jesus is the ultimate revelation of the Father, bridging the gap between God's elusiveness and His desire to be known.

Human Response to Divine Elusiveness

1. Seeking God: The Bible encourages believers to seek God earnestly. Jeremiah 29:13 promises, "You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart." This seeking is an active pursuit, requiring diligence and sincerity.

2. Humility and Reverence: Recognizing God's elusiveness should lead to humility and reverence. Job 11:7-9 challenges, "Can you fathom the deep things of God or discover the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than the heavens—what can you do? They are deeper than Sheol—what can you know?"

3. Prayer and Worship: Engaging with the elusive God through prayer and worship is a vital response. Psalm 145:18 assures, "The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth." Worship acknowledges God's greatness and mystery, fostering a deeper relationship with Him.

In summary, the elusiveness of God is a profound biblical theme that invites believers into a journey of faith, trust, and deeper relationship with the Divine. Through Scripture, creation, and the person of Jesus Christ, God reveals Himself, inviting humanity to seek and know Him despite His incomprehensible nature.