December 5, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 11

¹ I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.

² God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel saying,

³ Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life.

⁴ But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.

⁵ Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

⁶ And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

⁷ What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.

⁸ (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.

⁹ And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:

¹⁰ Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway.

¹¹ I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.

¹² Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?

¹³ For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:

¹⁴ If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

¹⁵ For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?

¹⁶ For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.

¹⁷ And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;

¹⁸ Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

¹⁹ Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in.

²⁰ Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:

²¹ For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.

²² Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.

²³ And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again.

²⁴ For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?

²⁵ For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

²⁶ And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

²⁷ For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.

²⁸ As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the father’s sakes.

²⁹ For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.

³⁰ For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:

³¹ Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.

³² For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.

³³ O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

³⁴ For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?

³⁵ Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?

³⁶ For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans chapter 11 is a profound and encouraging section in which Paul addresses the relationship between Israel, the Gentiles, and God’s plan. Paul emphasizes that God has not rejected His chosen people, but that Israel’s stubbornness is part of a larger salvation plan that includes the Gentiles. This text demonstrates God’s faithfulness, wisdom, and mercy, inviting all people, both Jews and Gentiles, to salvation.

Commentary

Israel’s Stubbornness and God’s Faithfulness (Verses 1–10): Paul makes it clear that God has not rejected His people. He uses the example of the prophet Elijah to show that God always preserves a “remnant” who remain faithful to Him. This remnant is not based on human effort but on God’s grace. The stubbornness of part of Israel is not final but serves a greater purpose.

The Calling of the Gentiles (Verses 11–16): Paul explains that Israel’s fall has brought salvation to the Gentiles, in order to provoke Israel to jealousy for God. This illustrates God’s sovereign plan, which leads both Israel and the Gentiles to salvation. Paul envisions the future acceptance of Israel as an act of resurrection, which will complete salvation.

Warning to Gentile Christians (Verses 17–24): Paul uses the image of an olive tree to illustrate the relationship between Jews and Gentiles. The Gentiles, referred to as “wild branches,” have been grafted into the olive tree, while some natural branches (Israel) have been broken off. Paul warns Gentile Christians against arrogance and reminds them that they stand only by faith. He also cautions that God can graft the natural branches back in.

Israel’s Final Salvation (Verses 25–32): Paul reveals the “mystery”: Israel’s stubbornness is temporary until the full number of Gentiles has come in. Then, all of Israel will be saved, according to God’s promises. This passage highlights God’s faithfulness to His covenants and His intention to show mercy to all people.

Praise for God’s Wisdom (Verses 33–36): Paul concludes with a praise for the incomprehensible wisdom and knowledge of God. His ways and plans are beyond understanding, but they lead to His honor and glory. Everything comes from God, exists through Him, and leads back to Him.

Summary

Romans chapter 11 illustrates God’s sovereign plan of salvation, which includes both Israel and the Gentiles. While a portion of Israel is temporarily hardened, this serves to incorporate the Gentiles into God’s saving community. In the end, all of Israel will be saved, fulfilling God’s plan of mercy and faithfulness. Paul urges readers to remain humble and to admire God’s marvelous wisdom, which brings all things to His glory.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/5-11-2024-romans-chapter-11-believe-his-prophets/

10.4 Old Testament Prophecies of Jesus: Part II
Proof of His Messianic Mission

Read John 1:14, 17; 8:32; 14:6; and 15:26. How does John directly connect the concept of truth with Jesus?

The Gospel of John uniquely connects the concept of truth with Jesus Christ. Here, truth is not presented as an abstract principle but as a person—Jesus Himself. This statement holds profound significance for our faith, our understanding of God, and our guidance in life.

1. Jesus as the Personified Truth

   • John 1:14 and 1:17: Jesus is the Word made flesh who lived among us, “full of grace and truth.” He is the revelation of God in human form. In Him, we see the perfect truth about God’s character and His will.

   • John 14:6: Jesus clearly states, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Truth is not just something He teaches or represents—He Himself is the truth. This means that a relationship with Him is the foundation for recognizing the truth.

2. Truth in Contrast to Lies and Darkness

   • John 8:32: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Jesus shows that truth brings not only knowledge but also liberation—liberation from sin, guilt, and the power of evil.

   • John 8:44–46: In the Gospel of John, truth stands in contrast to lies that come from the devil. Jesus is the light that dispels darkness and gives us clarity about reality.

3. Truth is Not a Concept, but a Relationship The Gospel of John demonstrates that truth is not merely a collection of facts or a philosophical idea. In Jesus, truth is a living, personified reality:

   • Truth reveals God’s faithfulness, grace, and love.

   • It is not just something to believe but something to experience by entering into a relationship with Jesus.

4. The Cosmic Dimension of Truth

   • John 1:1–4 and Colossians 1:16–17: Jesus, the Word, was with God from the beginning and is the creator of all that exists. All knowledge, all reality, and all existence are founded in Him. Without Jesus, there is no truth, no knowledge, and no existence.

5. Truth that Illuminates Life

   • John 8:12: Jesus, the truth, is like the sun that drives away darkness. Through Him, reality becomes visible, and we can see the world and ourselves more clearly.

   • As C. S. Lewis describes it: “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it but because by it I see everything else.” Jesus enables us to see life in its true light.

Conclusion

Jesus is not just a teacher of truth but the truth itself. This truth is the light that guides us, grants us freedom, and connects us with God. In a world full of uncertainty and deception, Jesus is the only reliable source of truth—a truth that not only is understood but also desires to be lived out.

The statement of Jesus, “I am the truth,” holds profound meaning that shapes not only our beliefs but also our daily lives. Here are the central connections:

1. Guidance in a Confusing World In a world where it is often claimed that truth is relative and “everyone has their own truth,” Jesus provides a firm foundation. His statement gives us:

   • Clarity in faith: We can rely on everything Jesus said and did as the unchanging truth of God.

   • Guidance in daily life: We can make decisions in the light of His truth without being unsettled by conflicting opinions or societal pressures.

2. Freedom through Truth Jesus says in John 8:32, “The truth will set you free.” This freedom has practical implications:

   • Freedom from sin and guilt: We do not have to live under the burden of our mistakes because Jesus’ truth grants us forgiveness and redemption.

   • Freedom from deception and fear: His truth frees us from false notions about ourselves, the world, and God. We can live with the assurance that God’s love sustains us.

3. A Life of Integrity Since Jesus is the truth, He calls us to live a life of integrity:

   • In dealing with others: Honesty, justice, and authenticity become guiding principles because we have Jesus as our example.

   • In faith: We strive to align our behavior and beliefs with His truth.

4. An Anchor in Times of Crisis In moments of uncertainty or doubt, we can hold on to Jesus’ truth:

   • Comfort and security: Knowing that Jesus is the truth gives us peace when faced with suffering, loss, or difficult decisions.

   • Hope and perspective: His truth reminds us that our future is in God’s hands and that what He has promised is secure.

5. Relationship instead of Rules Truth is personified in Jesus. This means:

   • Faith is relationship: Being a Christian does not mean following a list of rules but inviting Jesus, the truth, into our lives and living with Him.

   • Growing in truth: Through prayer, Bible study, and discipleship, we learn to understand Jesus and His truth more deeply and apply it to our daily lives.

Conclusion

The connection of Jesus’ statement “I am the truth” with our daily lives shows us that truth is not an abstract concept but is experienced in relationship with Jesus. This truth gives us guidance, freedom, and peace; it calls us to a life of integrity and provides an anchor in turbulent times. When we base our lives on His truth, we find meaning, hope, and the assurance that we are on the right path.

Jesus is the truth that illuminates our lives, sets us free, and gives us direction.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-4-old-testament-prophecies-of-jesus-part-ii-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 4, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 10

¹ Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.

² For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

³ For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

⁴ For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

⁵ For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.

⁶ But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)

⁷ Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)

⁸ But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;

⁹ That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

¹⁰ For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

¹¹ For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

¹² For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.

¹³ For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

¹⁴ How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

¹⁵ And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

¹⁶ But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

¹⁷ So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

¹⁸ But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.

¹⁹ But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.

²⁰ But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.

²¹ But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans chapter 10 is a central section in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans. It addresses the question of righteousness before God and access to salvation, with Paul emphasizing the importance of faith over the law. Paul specifically refers to the situation of Israel, which, despite its zeal for God, has missed true righteousness because it seeks this through its own works instead of through faith. This text is a profound theological reflection that is also a passionate appeal to accept the Gospel.

Commentary

Paul’s Heartfelt Concern (Verses 1–4): Paul begins with his desire and prayer for the salvation of Israel. Although the people are eager in their search for God, they lack an understanding of true righteousness, which does not come from the law but through faith in Christ. Paul makes it clear: Christ is the culmination of the law—He has fulfilled the demands of the law so that righteousness now comes from faith.

The Righteousness of Faith (Verses 5–13): Paul contrasts righteousness from the law with the righteousness of faith. While the law demands human action, the righteousness of faith is a gift from God. Faith requires confession with the mouth and trust in the heart that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead. This universal message applies equally to Jews and Gentiles, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

The Necessity of Proclamation (Verses 14–17): Paul explains the central role of proclaiming the Gospel. Faith comes by hearing the message, and this message must be spread by preachers who are sent by God. He refers to Isaiah to show that accepting the Gospel is not self-evident, as not everyone believes the word of God.

Israel’s Refusal and God’s Revelation (Verses 18–21): Paul addresses Israel’s responsibility, which has heard the message of God but has not accepted it. He quotes Moses and Isaiah to show that God includes not only Israel but also the Gentiles in His plan of salvation. While the Gentiles, who did not seek God, found Him, Israel remains obstinate even though God extends His hands.

Summary

Romans chapter 10 describes the path to righteousness and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that faith is not an achievement but a response to God’s grace. He shows the necessity of proclaiming the Gospel and the universal access to salvation for all who call on the name of the Lord. At the same time, Israel’s tragic refusal of grace is discussed, although God’s invitation remains tireless. This section encourages seeking righteousness through faith and spreading the saving message.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/4-11-2024-romans-chapter-10-believe-his-prophets/

10.3 I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life
Jesus: The Path, the Revelation, and the Source of Life

Read John 14:5–6. What did Thomas want to know about where Jesus would go? How did Jesus respond?

The words of Jesus in John 14:6 are among the most powerful statements in the New Testament. They answer the fundamental question about the way to God and the significance of Jesus’ role in salvation. Thomas’ question and Jesus’ response illuminate several central truths:

1. Thomas’ Question: A Natural Uncertainty

Thomas expresses what the disciples likely all felt: confusion about the destination Jesus was referring to and how they were to get there. His question shows an honest, human uncertainty: “Lord, we don’t know where you are going. How can we know the way?” (John 14:5). This uncertainty is often present in our lives as well when we seek direction, whether in faith or everyday life.

2. Jesus’ Answer: He Himself is the Way

Jesus turns Thomas’ question upside down by not pointing to a destination but to Himself: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). This statement has several dimensions:

• The Way: Jesus is not just a guide but the way itself. Through His teachings, life, death, and resurrection, He opens the access to God.

• The Truth: He is the revelation of God in a world marked by deception and sin. Through Him, we recognize who God truly is.

• The Life: Jesus is the source of eternal life. He grants not only physical life but also spiritual life in abundance.

3. The Way to the Father

Jesus shows that the way to God is not achieved through our own efforts, religious rituals, or philosophical insights. Access to the Father happens solely through Him. He explicitly states, “No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This statement underscores the exclusivity of His work: He is the bridge between a fallen world and a holy God.

Conclusion

The words “I am the way, the truth, and the life” are an invitation to fully trust Jesus. They encourage us to align our life’s path with Him, seek our truth in His teachings, and find our lives through His closeness to God. Jesus’ response to Thomas shows that our greatest goal—the fellowship with God—is only possible through Him.

Read John 14:7–11. How did Jesus clarify Philip’s misunderstanding?

Philip’s request to see the Father is an expression of a deep human desire: to experience God directly and to understand Him. However, Jesus’ response shows that this desire is already fulfilled through Him. In these verses, Jesus clarifies Philip’s misunderstanding and reveals essential truths about His identity and His relationship with the Father.

1. Philip’s Request

Philip says, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us” (John 14:8). This request reflects the need to experience God visibly and tangibly. It is a plea for a clear revelation, often echoed in the history of Israel (cf. Deuteronomy 33:18-23). However, Philip does not yet realize that he already has the complete revelation of God in Jesus.

2. Jesus’ Response: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father”

Jesus gently rebukes Philip’s misunderstanding: “Philip, you have seen me, yet you do not know who I am” (John 14:9). He explains that He and the Father are perfectly one. Whoever sees Jesus sees God. This statement reveals:

• Jesus as the Revelation of the Father: In His character, words, and actions, God becomes visible (John 1:18).

• Unity Between Jesus and the Father: Jesus is not just an ambassador of God but God Himself in human form. His life is the living interpretation of the Father.

3. Faith Through Words and Works

Jesus urges the disciples to believe in Him—either based on His words or His works (John 14:10-11). The miracles Jesus performed testify to His divine nature and His close connection to the Father. His words, proclaiming the truth, demonstrate His authority as the one sent by the Father.

Conclusion

Philip’s request and Jesus’ response make it clear that God is perfectly revealed in Jesus. Whoever knows Jesus knows the Father. This truth encourages us to trust Jesus, recognize Him as the way to God, and live in His light. In Jesus, we encounter the truth and the life that securely lead us to the Father.

Why is it very comforting to recognize that Jesus is the best revelation we will have of God the Father?

1. God Becomes Accessible and Approachable in Jesus Jesus shows us that God is not distant, unreachable, or abstract. Through His life, teachings, and works, God becomes understandable and tangible to us. He meets us in a way that humans can comprehend. This knowledge brings comfort because it shows that God truly knows us, loves us, and has come into our world to save us.

2. A Visible Image of God’s Nature In Jesus, we see God’s character: His love, patience, forgiveness, justice, and mercy. Everything Jesus said and did reflects the Father (John 14:9). This revelation comforts us because we know that God is not a punishing judge but a loving Father who cares for His children.

3. Jesus Personally Conveys God’s Love On the cross, Jesus demonstrated the depth of God’s love for us. He bore our sins and redeemed us. Knowing that God loves us so much that He sent His Son (John 3:16) gives us hope and security, especially in difficult times.

4. God Understands Our Suffering Jesus lived as a human and experienced the challenges, pains, and temptations of this world (Hebrews 4:15). Therefore, we know that God not only sees our suffering but also understands it. This comfort helps us find strength and trust in tough moments.

5. The Assurance of Eternal Life Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Through Him, we have access to the Father and the promise of eternal life. This assurance comforts us because it gives us a firm hope beyond the limits of this life.

6. No Further Searching Needed In Jesus, the revelation of God is complete. We do not need to seek additional signs or proofs to know God. Knowing that Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God gives us security and peace in our faith.

Conclusion

Recognizing that Jesus is the best revelation of God comforts us because in Him we find everything we need to know about God: His love, His plan for us, and His desire to have us with Him. It shows us that God not only understands us but also actively seeks to save us and grant us an eternal future with Him.

The Statement of Jesus in John 14:6 is not only a theological truth but also a practical invitation that shapes our daily lives and our faith. Here are the central connections:

1. Jesus as the Way: Guidance for Our Lives

In everyday life, we often seek the right path, whether in career decisions, relationships, or our faith. Jesus’ words show that He Himself is our guide:

• In Faith: Jesus leads us to God without us relying on our own efforts or wisdom. He is the bridge that connects us with the Father.

• In Daily Life: His teachings and example help us live with integrity, love, and justice. By following Him, we find direction in an often confusing world.

2. Jesus as the Truth: Security in a World of Uncertainties

In a time when truth is often relativized, Jesus’ statement is an anchor for our faith:

• In Faith: Jesus reveals God’s nature to us. Through Him, we understand the absolute truth about God’s love, grace, and justice.

• In Daily Life: His word provides us with stability and clarity when we are surrounded by conflicting information or moral dilemmas.

3. Jesus as the Life: Fulfillment and Hope

• Eternal Life: Jesus gives us the hope of eternal life with God that transcends the limitations of this earthly life.

• Life in Daily Life: His life inspires us to live in joy and abundance, regardless of our circumstances. He gives us meaning and purpose, even in difficult times.

4. Connection with God in Daily Life

Jesus says, “No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This statement shows that our access to God is not based on our performance or knowledge but solely through our relationship with Jesus. This connection shapes:

• Our Prayer Life: We can pray with confidence because Jesus has paved the way to the Father.

• Our Perspective: Knowing that Jesus is our mediator, we can approach God with full trust and without fear.

5. A Life of Trust

The assurance that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life encourages us to trust Him in all aspects of our lives:

• Making Decisions: His example and teachings help us make decisions that honor God.

• In Difficult Times: Jesus gives us comfort and confidence when we feel lost or uncertain.

Conclusion

The statement “I am the way, the truth, and the life” is an invitation to place Jesus at the center of our lives. It shows us that in Him we find everything we need for our faith and daily living: guidance, security, and hope. By turning to Him, we can live with confidence, peace, and joy in a world full of uncertainties.

Jesus is the way that leads us, the truth that frees us, and the life that fulfills us.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-3-i-am-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 3, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 9

¹ I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

² That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.

³ For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:

⁴ Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;

⁵ Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.

⁶ Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:

⁷ Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.

⁸ That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.

⁹ For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son.

¹⁰ And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac;

¹¹ (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;)

¹² It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger.

¹³ As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.

¹⁴ What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid.

¹⁵ For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.

¹⁶ So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

¹⁷ For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.

¹⁸ Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.

¹⁹ Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?

²⁰ Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?

²¹ Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

²² What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:

²³ And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,

²⁴ Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?

²⁵ As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.

²⁶ And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.

²⁷ Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:

²⁸ For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.

²⁹ And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.

³⁰ What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.

³¹ But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.

³² Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;

³³ As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Romans 9 is a challenging yet profound chapter of the New Testament. Here, the Apostle Paul addresses the difficult questions of God’s election, Israel’s position, and the role of faith. During a time when many pondered their identity and place in God’s plan, Paul provides a clear, though demanding, answer: it is neither physical lineage nor works that matter, but God’s sovereign grace and the promise activated through faith. Let us approach this chapter with open hearts and a seeking spirit to better understand the message of hope and grace.

Commentary:

Israel’s Divine Sonship (Verses 1–5):
Paul begins with a personal expression of his love for Israel and his sorrow over their rejection of the gospel. He highlights Israel’s unique privileges: divine sonship, the promises, the law, and the glory. However, he makes it clear that these blessings alone do not lead to salvation.

Children of the Promise (Verses 6–13):
Paul demonstrates that God’s promises are not limited by physical descent. Instead, God works sovereignly, as illustrated in the examples of Isaac and Jacob. God’s election is not based on human merit but solely on His grace.

God’s Sovereign Election (Verses 14–24):
The question of God’s justice is raised. Paul emphasizes that God is sovereign and just in exercising election. This choice is not arbitrary but follows God’s plan to reveal His glory and mercy.

The True Israel and the Gentiles (Verses 25–29):
Using prophecies, Paul shows that God’s plan has always included the Gentiles. While Israel is not rejected, only a remnant will be saved.

Righteousness by Law vs. Righteousness by Faith (Verses 30–33):
Finally, Paul makes it clear that righteousness comes by faith, not by works of the law. The Gentiles have attained this righteousness through faith, while many Israelites have stumbled over Christ, the “stone of stumbling.”

Summary:

Romans 9 reveals the depth of God’s plan of salvation, which is based not on human merit but solely on His sovereign grace. Paul explains that God’s promises have never failed and that the true Israelite is one who lives by faith. The Gentiles have accessed righteousness through faith, while many Israelites have clung to works-righteousness. God’s sovereign election is a manifestation of His grace, and Christ remains the central “rock” upon which salvation is determined. This message encourages us to place our trust in God’s grace rather than our works.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/3-11-2024-romans-chapter-9-believe-his-prophets/