ROMANS 11:1

“I say then, God has not rejected His people, has He? Far from it! For I too am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.”

Some things in life are just absolutes. For instance, I will NEVER eat brussel sprouts again, lol. I will NEVER cheer for the Florida Gators! I will NEVER stop loving Jesus. I could say with Paul, “May it never be!” Paul loves to use this expression. Just look at similar words in these passages in Romans: Romans 3:4, 6, 31; 6:2, 15; 7:7, 13. I may start saying that more when I know something is totally against the truth of God’s word. May it never be!

In chapter 11 Paul picks up where he left off in chapter 10 and further discusses the fate of the Jewish nation. The entirety of chapter 11 is dedicated to showing that although the Jewish nation as a whole had rejected Jesus, there were some who had believed (himself included). Therefore, God was not done with them yet. He would restore the remnant. We’ll spend the next month or so looking at this discussion in depth. Hang on!

APPLICATION

The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges says this about Paul’s words in chapter 11 of Romans. “…he turns to state the happier side; and this in two main aspects. First, he reiterates the truth of the Divine Election, but now in its positive aspect—the existence always of a believing Israel within the unbelieving mass. Secondly, he predicts a time when even in the mass Israel should turn to the true Messiah, be restored to the Church, and become thus an influence of vast good for the world.” God is not done with Israel yet. Paul tells us to not believe that lie. God still has a plan of redemption for His chosen people.

God’s promises are always true, right? Look at Psalm 94:14. “For the LORD will not abandon His people, nor will He abandon His inheritance.” How about Deuteronomy 31:6? “‘Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.’” 

Those promises hold true for us, as well. One of my favorites is Isaiah 41:10. “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” And the final words of our Lord in Matthew 28:20 tell us, “‘…and surely I am with your always, even to the end of the age.’” Hallelujah, what a Savior! Will He leave us or abandon us? May it never be!

Thank You, Father, that Your promises to Israel and to us are true and undeniable.

If the Lord should lead you to support our ministry, check out our ministry page at Trans World Radio (www.twr.org/carl-willis).