Awsome thread. I love it. "be prepared to give an answer".
This is a very confusing subject for many. I struggled with this for so long. Even now reading the posts I gain more and more understanding.
It is my understanding as well that all mankind since creation were created ignorant (just like a baby not knowing anything, ready for God to instill understanding). Like a baby we have no understanding. Babies only think of themselves and have no regard for anyone elses needs. They need to learn and without someone to teach them they will remain confused and have no understanding and continue to grow in ignorance.
For some of us babies, it is not for us to know the things of the kingdom. For others it is for them to know the things of the kingdom out of Gods own purpose and pleasure. Those vessils of honor whom God chooses from the world will recieve of Gods gifts of knowledge and understanding removing us from this adolescent state of confusion and selfishness. We were created babies and are being made into the image of God.
So in conclusion I believe the confusion was always there and only continued to get worse (countless religions and denominations of each one) since the fall in the garden. So not only does God not open their eyes but adds to the current state of confusion through the devil. It is not God himself directly confusing but actually sending it. Satan was created for this purpose, hes just doing his thing and God has had the reigns on him the whole time.
Hope I am in line here and not just babbling nonsense.
God Bless, Dave