Romans 11:1-24
Q.1. How did Paul support his claim that God has not finished with Israel? Why have some already been called? What happened to the rest? – (Rom.11:1-10)
Many Christian leaders claim that Israel does not have a special place with God anymore. People usually accept this interpretation when remembering Israel’s many failures. However, Romans chapter 11 negates these conclusions. Not only was Paul part of a faithful remnant in his day, but he also asserted that – God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew (11:2). In forming Israel for His purpose, God already knew that Israel would fail, even before they set foot in the Promised Land (Deut.Chpts.28-32). Praise the Lord that He has also made provision for our failure. To prove his assertion, Paul reminded his readers of Elijah’s interchange with God. Elijah felt that he alone was faithful. However, God reminded the depressed prophet – I have kept for Myself 7,000 who have not bowed the knee to Baal (Rom.11:3-4). This highlights God’s gracious choice, and underscores the fact that sinners are not saved on the basis of works (Rom.11:5-6). Though this is a difficult truth to grasp, those chosen obtained light, and the hearts of the rest were hardened, thus underscoring God’s prerogative to choose whomever He desires (Rom.11:7-10).
Q.2. What impact has the salvation of the Gentiles had on Israel? Was Paul aware of their reaction to his ministry? How will Israel bring glory to God? – (Rom.11:11-16)
Paul went on to argue that the stumbling of Israel is not permanent but has given occasion for salvation to come to the Gentiles. God used Israel’s rejection of Himself, to drive Israel to jealousy over the inclusion of the Gentile nations (Rom.11:11 & 14). Paul argued that – if their transgression is riches to the world … how much more will their fulfilment be a cause of bringing glory to God (Rom.11:12). In fact – if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be BUT LIFE FROM THE DEAD? (Rom.11:15). When God accomplishes this unexpected turn-around, this will bring much glory to Him.
Q.3. What attitude must the church guard against in regard to Israel? Why? What does God’s treatment of Jews and Gentiles demonstrate? What is God’s plan? – (Rom.11:17-24)
Paul used the analogy of pruning and grafting to demonstrate that the Gentiles, as wild olive branches, were grafted into Israel, the original olive tree (Rom.11:17). As such an amazing thing has happened, we must be careful not to be become conceited. This is because it is much more likely that the natural olive branches should be grafted back in, than that the wild olive branches would be (Rom.11:18 & 20). We should appreciate the fact that it is the root of the true olive tree that supports us – If God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare you (Rom.11:21). Paul used the analogy to drive home the need for perseverance in the faith journey. We should not be ignorant of either the kindness, or the severity of God. We must value our relationship with the Vine. Paul warned – otherwise you also will be cut off (Rom.11:22). The fact remains that – God is able to graft them (Israel) in again (Rom.11:23). How much more will these who are the natural branches be grafted into their own olive tree? (Rom.11:23-24). Paul was about to unveil even more of God’s Master Plan of the Ages (Rom.11:25 c.f. Eph.3:3-6, 9-11).