Romans - God's Mercy on Israel

God’s Mercy on Israel

Romans 11:1-24

 

            In this chapter Paul stresses that while all of Israel was considered God’s chosen people, not all Jews would be saved. Because of disobedience God cut them off from the godly root. According to Paul God’s choice to graft Gentiles to the root was a means of making the Jews jealous of them. There was a remnant of Jews that remained loyal to God and His statutes, for they were seen as righteous in light of their tie to Abraham. Being considered righteous and holy because of their affiliation with Abraham makes senses because it was God who told Abraham he would be the father of many nations. They were obviously not all sired by Abraham but considered heirs to righteousness because of God’s covenant with him.

            The gentile believers should never think they could not be cut off the same as the disobedient Jews, for if God would cut off the original, intended branches, then He would most assuredly not hesitate to cut off a branch that had been grafted in. The key is living a life of righteousness in Christ’s name, thus honoring God with your lifestyle. Our reward for living this way is eternal life with our Lord. Paul tells us in verse 23 that if the Jews set aside their unbelief they be once again be regrafted back into God’s “cultivated tree”.  

            Whether one can be welcomed back into God’s family after they had already known Him is a highly debatable topic. We aren’t speaking of an unregenerate man or woman who becomes born again, leaving his sinful lifestyle, but rather one who has tasted the fruit of God’s blessings only to turn away from God at a later date. In my opinionit would seem to be a matter of the heart. It’s true that God can harden one’s heart so that it becomes seared over along with their conscience, however, God knows each individual heart and its’ motivation. If someone turns away from God and at a later date recants that decision with a sincere and contrite heart, would God not entertain a reinstatement to right status with Him? God knows the beginning from the end and everything in between. He knows if you are sincere or not.  This topic requires more research, but my initial reaction is that it is possible, but may not be likely based on the frailty, selfishness and double-mindedness of man. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries