God's Blessing

Romans 11 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

1 I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin.
2 God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew.
3 “Lord, they have killed your prophets, they have demolished your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life.”
4 But what is God’s reply to him? “I have kept for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.”
5 So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace.
6 But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.
7 What then? Israel failed to obtain what it was seeking. The elect obtained it, but the rest were hardened,
8 as it is written, “God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear, down to this very day.”
9 And David says, “Let their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them;
10 Let their eyes be darkened so that they cannot see,
and bend their backs forever.”
11 So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! But through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous.
12 Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their full inclusion mean!
13 Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry.
14 in order somehow to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them.
11 For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead?
11 If the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, so is the whole lump, and if the root is holy, so are the branches.
11 But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree,
18 do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you.
19 Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.”
20 That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear.
21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you.
22 Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.
23 And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again.
24 For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree.
25 Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.
26 And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob”;
27 “and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins.”
28 As regards the gospel, they are enemies for your sake. But as regards election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers.
29 For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.
30 For just as you were at one time disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience,
31 so they too have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may now receive mercy.
32 For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all.
33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
34 “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?”
35 “Or who has given a gift to him
that he might be repaid?”
36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

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The True Meaning of Romans 11

The Epistle to the Romans, written by the apostle Paul, is a profound theological treatise that delves into the complex relationship between the Jewish people and the Christian faith. Paul addresses the question of whether God has rejected his chosen people, the Jews, in favor of the Gentiles who have embraced the gospel in this chapter.

Paul’s background as a former Pharisee and zealous persecutor of the early Christian church lends a unique perspective to his insights. He draws upon his own experiences and the teachings of the prophets to shed light on God’s plan for the salvation of both Jews and Gentiles. The concept of the remnant, a faithful few among the Jewish people who have accepted the Messiah, will be explored in this chapter. We will also witness Paul’s passionate plea for his fellow Jews to open their hearts to the truth of the gospel, even as he acknowledges the temporary hardening of their hearts. Paul reminds us that “all Israel will be saved” (Romans 11:26) in accordance with the divine plan, offering a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of God’s redemptive work.

Romans 11:1-6

The passage in Romans 11:1-6 discusses the concept of Israel’s rejection and God’s faithfulness. Let’s break down the important sections of these verses for a deeper understanding.

Paul, the author of Romans, begins by asking a rhetorical question, “I ask, then, has God rejected his people?” The issue at hand is the state of Israel, God’s chosen people, in light of their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. Paul is addressing the concern that God may have permanently set aside Israel due to their unbelief. This was a significant question as many early Christians struggled to reconcile the idea that the people who were meant to be a light to the nations had largely rejected Christ. Paul answers his own question emphatically with a resounding “By no means!”” He then identifies himself as an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. Paul’s Jewish heritage lends weight to his words as he affirms that God has not rejected His chosen people. This statement is pivotal in demonstrating God’s enduring faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. It conveys the idea that God’s promises are irrevocable, despite Israel’s disobedience.

Paul goes on to reference the account of Elijah as an example of God’s remnant. He recounts how Elijah thought he was the only faithful Israelite left, but God revealed that He had preserved a remnant of 7,000 who had not bowed the knee to Baal. This serves as a powerful illustration that even in times of apparent widespread unbelief, God always preserves a faithful remnant for Himself. It emphasizes God’s sovereignty and His ability to work through a minority to accomplish His purposes.

The passage continues to underscore the concept of grace versus works. Paul highlights that the selection of the remnant is not based on their works but on God’s grace. This aligns with the overarching theme in the New Testament that emphasizes salvation through grace alone, not by human effort. The contrast between grace and works is a recurring theme in Paul’s letters, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, not something earned through works. Romans 11:1-6 conveys a message of God’s unwavering faithfulness, His sovereign choice of a remnant, and the primacy of grace in salvation. It serves to remind believers of God’s faithfulness to His promises, despite human unfaithfulness, and highlights the importance of relying on God’s grace rather than personal merit. This passage reinforces the broader biblical narrative of God’s redemptive plan for humanity and His faithfulness to His people throughout history.

Romans 11:7-12

To fully grasp the meaning of Romans 11:7-12, we can break down the passage into a few key sections.

The first section, “What then? What the people of Israel sought so earnestly they did not obtain. The elect among them did, but the others were hardened,” addresses the rejection of Israel as a whole and the concept of a remnant being chosen. This is a crucial point in understanding the narrative of Romans 11. The Apostle Paul is explaining that despite Israel’s zealous pursuit of righteousness, they did not achieve it because they sought it through works and not through faith in Christ. However, the ‘elect’ among them, those who believed in Jesus as the Messiah and accepted Him, obtained righteousness while the rest were hardened in their unbelief. This concept of a remnant being saved despite the majority’s rejection is not a new idea in the Bible. Throughout the Old Testament, we see examples of a faithful remnant being preserved by God amidst widespread unfaithfulness (e.g., Elijah and the 7,000 who did not bow to Baal in 1 Kings 19:18).

The next section, “as it is written: ‘God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that could not see and ears that could not hear, to this very day,” refers to a passage in Deuteronomy 29:4 and Isaiah 29:10, where God foretold that Israel would struggle with spiritual blindness and deafness. This was not a punishment inflicted by God but a consequence of their persistent rejection of Him and His truth. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of hardening one’s heart towards God and the dangers of ignoring His revelations. Throughout the Bible, we see instances where people’s hearts were hardened due to their stubbornness and refusal to heed God’s warnings (e.g., Pharaoh in Exodus 9:12, 10:20).

The final section, “And David says: ‘May their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them. May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever,’” references Psalm 69:22-23. Here, Paul quotes David’s imprecatory prayer against his enemies, highlighting the consequences of rejecting God and persecuting His people. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of opposing God’s work and mistreating His chosen ones. Throughout the Bible, we see God’s protection over His people and His retribution against those who harm them (e.g., the plagues on Egypt for oppressing the Israelites in Exodus). Romans 11:7-12 emphasizes the importance of faith in Christ for salvation, the existence of a faithful remnant within Israel, the consequences of spiritual blindness and deafness, and the repercussions of opposing God’s work. It warns us to guard our hearts against hardness, to seek God with sincerity, and to treat His people with respect and love.

Romans 11:13-16

The verse in Romans 11:13-16 can be broken down into several key sections. “I am talking to you Gentiles. The Apostle Paul, in this first section, specifically addresses the Gentile believers in Rome. Paul, who was previously known as Saul, an ardent persecutor of Christians, had a dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus (Acts 9), where he encountered Jesus Christ and was called to be an apostle to the Gentiles (non-Jewish people). Paul, in his humility, acknowledges his role and calling as the apostle to the Gentiles, which was a significant shift in the early Christian movement as it broadened the scope of the gospel beyond the Jewish community to encompass all people.

  1. “I am writing to you this not to make you conceited but to warn you. Paul explains in this section that he does not intend to boast or inflate the egos of the Gentiles but to provide them with a necessary warning. Throughout his letters, Paul often emphasizes the importance of humility and unity among believers. Here, he is cautioning the Gentiles not to become arrogant in their faith but to remain grounded in the grace and mercy of God.

  2. “If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. Paul employs the metaphor of the olive tree to illustrate the relationship between Jewish and Gentile believers in this crucial section. The image of the olive tree represents Israel as God’s chosen people, with the natural branches symbolizing the Jewish people and the wild olive shoots representing the Gentiles who have been grafted in through faith in Christ. Paul conveys the idea that Gentile believers should not look down on Jewish believers or consider themselves superior by using this imagery.

  3. “If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you.”

Paul emphasizes the interconnectedness of Jewish and Gentile believers by highlighting that both groups ultimately derive their spiritual nourishment and sustenance from the same root, which is faith in God. The Gentiles should not boast over the Jews but instead recognize their indebtedness to the Jewish heritage and the faith of their forefathers. This verse echoes the significance of spiritual heritage and the importance of remembering and honoring those who came before us in the faith. Romans 11:13-16 underscores the themes of humility, unity, and spiritual interconnectedness within the body of Christ. The passage serves as a reminder to not boast in our own achievements or heritage but to recognize the grace of God that has extended salvation to all who believe, whether Jew or Gentile. It encourages believers to embrace diversity within the church and to appreciate the richness of God’s plan to include people from every nation, tribe, and tongue in His redemptive work.

Romans 11:17-21

The passage in Romans 11:17-21 can be broken down into a few key sections for closer inspection. Starting with verse 17, it reads, “But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree.” This verse is a powerful analogy using the imagery of an olive tree to explain the relationship between the Jewish people (the natural branches) and the Gentiles (the wild olive shoot). It highlights the concept of the Gentiles being grafted into the promises and blessings of God that were originally intended for the Jews.

The mention of branches being broken off refers to the rejection of the Gospel message by many of the Jewish people, leading to their spiritual separation from the covenant relationship with God. The Gentiles, who were previously considered outsiders to the promises of God, are now included through faith in Christ. This imagery of grafting emphasizes the unity and continuity of God’s plan throughout history, demonstrating His inclusivity and faithfulness to both Jews and Gentiles.

Moving on to verse 18, it states, “do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you.” Here, the Apostle Paul issues a warning against pride and arrogance among the Gentile believers. He reminds them that their inclusion in God’s promises is not based on their own merit or superiority but on God’s grace and faithfulness. The root symbolizes the patriarchs and promises of God to His chosen people, and the Gentiles are encouraged to humbly acknowledge their dependence on this spiritual heritage. Paul continues the analogy by cautioning the Gentiles in verse 19-21, “Then you will say, ‘Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.”‘ That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you.” These verses serve as a stern reminder to the Gentile believers about the consequences of pride and disobedience. The Jewish people, who were initially part of God’s covenant, were cut off due to their unbelief and disobedience. Therefore, the Gentiles are urged to remain steadfast in faith and to fear God, understanding that their standing is based on faith and can be lost through arrogance and unbelief. Romans 11:17-21 delivers a powerful message about the importance of humility, faith, and gratitude in the Christian walk. It emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His promises, the unity of believers regardless of background, and the need for all to remain rooted in faith to partake in the blessings of God’s covenant. This passage serves as a reminder to avoid pride, to remain steadfast in faith, and to always acknowledge God’s sovereignty in His redemptive plan for all people.

Romans 11:22-27

We can break down several important sections in Romans 11:22-27 for a deeper understanding. Let’s start by dissecting each section:

  1. God considers sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.”

Here, the verse juxtaposes the kindness and sternness of God. It speaks of God’s response to those who have fallen away versus those who have remained faithful. This highlights the conditional nature of God’s kindness – it is given to those who continue in faith. The warning of being “cut off” if one does not continue in God’s kindness emphasizes the significance of faithfulness and the consequences of turning away from God’s ways. This serves as a reminder to believers to persevere in their faith and not become complacent.

  1. “And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.”

This verse offers hope and reassurance that those who have strayed from the faith can be welcomed back if they turn away from unbelief. The image of being grafted in again signifies restoration and reconciliation with God. It illustrates God’s mercy and His ability to bring back those who have wandered astray. This message of redemption reinforces the theme of God’s unfailing love and His willingness to forgive and restore those who repent.

  1. “After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!”

This section draws upon the metaphor of the olive tree to explain the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation. The cultivated olive tree represents the people of Israel, while the wild olive tree symbolizes the Gentiles. The grafting of branches from the wild olive tree into the cultivated one signifies the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s family through faith in Christ. It also foreshadows the restoration of Israel in God’s redemptive plan. This imagery emphasizes God’s intention to reconcile all people to Himself, regardless of their background or heritage.

  1. “I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in…”

This verse acknowledges the temporary hardening of Israel’s hearts towards the gospel, allowing the Gentiles to come to faith. It highlights the divine mystery of God’s plan unfolding through the inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles in His redemptive work. The hardening of Israel’s hearts serves a purpose in God’s overall plan, leading to the salvation of the Gentiles. It cautions against pride and reminds believers to remain humble and mindful of God’s sovereign plan for all people. Romans 11:22-27 carries profound insights into God’s character, His redemptive plan for all humanity, and the importance of faithfulness and humility in the Christian walk. It showcases God’s mercy, His willingness to restore the wayward, and the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ. This passage underscores the overarching theme of God’s faithfulness throughout history and His inclusive love for all who believe in Him.

Romans 11:28-32

The passage in Romans 11:28-32 can be broken down into several important sections that convey a message of God’s mercy and plan for both the Jews and the Gentiles. They are enemies for your sake as far as the gospel is concerned, but they are loved on account of the patriarchs as far as election is concerned in verse 28.” Here, Paul is addressing the Gentile believers in Rome, explaining that the Jews, despite currently being enemies of the Gospel due to their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah, are still loved by God because of the patriarchs, referring to the forefathers of the Jewish nation such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This highlights God’s faithfulness to His promises and His enduring love for His chosen people, the Jews, despite their temporary disobedience. God’s plan includes salvation for all, both Jews and Gentiles, and this verse emphasizes the interconnectedness of the two groups in God’s redemptive narrative.

Moving on to verse 29: “for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.” This verse underscores the unchanging nature of God’s gifts and calling. God’s promises to the Jews, including the covenant He made with Abraham and his descendants, remain steadfast even when individuals within the Jewish nation falter in their faith. This concept echoes throughout the Bible, emphasizing the reliability of God’s character and His faithfulness to fulfill His plans despite human shortcomings. It also serves as a reminder to believers of all backgrounds that God’s promises are sure and trustworthy. Paul states in verse 30, “Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience.”..” Here, Paul draws a parallel between the disobedience of the Jews and the mercy extended to the Gentiles. The rejection of Jesus by the Jews opened the door for the Gentiles to receive salvation through faith in Christ. This shift in focus from the Jews to the Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan demonstrates His inclusivity and the depth of His mercy. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience and the opportunity for redemption through God’s mercy and grace.

Lastly, in verses 31 and 32, Paul concludes, “so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God’s mercy to you. For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.” Here, Paul highlights the cyclical nature of disobedience and mercy. Both Jews and Gentiles are prone to disobedience, yet God’s ultimate purpose is to show mercy to all. This reflects the universal scope of God’s redemptive plan, which encompasses both those who were originally in covenant with Him and those who were once considered outsiders. It emphasizes the impartiality and abundance of God’s mercy, which is extended to all who turn to Him in faith. Romans 11:28-32 underscores the themes of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and inclusive salvation plan for both Jews and Gentiles. It reminds believers of the unchanging nature of God’s promises, His willingness to show mercy despite disobedience, and His overarching plan to bring redemption to all who believe. The passage encourages humility, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the depth of God’s love and mercy towards His creation.

Romans 11:33-36

Romans 11:33-36 is a powerful and awe-inspiring conclusion to the chapter where Paul delves into the mysteries of God’s plan for Israel and the Gentiles. Let’s break down this verse into sections and explore their meanings more deeply.

  1. “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!”
    This section is a moment of reflective admiration by Paul at the unfathomable depths of God’s wisdom and knowledge. Paul is highlighting the incomprehensibility of God’s ways to human understanding, emphasizing the greatness and complexity of His plans. This verse serves to remind believers of the vastness and mystery of God’s divine will, reinforcing the idea of trust and faith in God’s sovereign control over all things. It echoes the sentiment found in Isaiah 55:8-9, where it says that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours.

  2. “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor? Paul emphasizes the uniqueness and sovereignty of God in this section. It underscores the fact that no human can fully understand or counsel God because He is beyond human comprehension. This question posed by Paul challenges the arrogance of humanity in thinking that they can grasp the entirety of God’s plans or offer Him advice. It echoes Job 38:4 where God, in response to Job’s questioning, asks, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” This verse serves to humble believers and remind them of the vast difference between the wisdom of God and the limitations of human understanding.

  3. “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?”
    This section further emphasizes the sovereignty and self-sufficiency of God. It highlights that God owes nothing to anyone and that humans cannot put Him in their debt. This echoes the sentiment in Job 41:11, which states, “Who has a claim against me that I must pay? Everything under heaven belongs to me.” This verse underscores the idea that everything belongs to God, and He is under no obligation to repay anyone. It reinforces the humility and dependence that believers should have towards God, recognizing His supremacy and authority over all things.

  4. “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”
    This final section acts as a fitting conclusion to the praise and reflection on the depth of God’s wisdom and knowledge. It reaffirms the central role of God as the source, sustainer, and ultimate purpose of all things. This verse echoes similar sentiments found throughout the Bible, such as in Colossians 1:16-17, which states that all things were created by God and for God. It encapsulates the idea that everything in existence finds its origin, sustenance, and fulfillment in God alone. The declaration of giving glory to God forever serves as a reminder of the proper response of believers to acknowledge and exalt the Creator for His unparalleled greatness and magnificence. Romans 11:33-36 declares God’s incomprehensible wisdom, sovereignty, and glory profoundly. It challenges believers to embrace humility, trust, and adoration in the face of the unfathomable mysteries of God’s plan. It reinforces the timeless message of the Bible that God’s ways are higher than our ways and that all things find their purpose and meaning in Him.

After Romans 11

The chapter concluded with a powerful message of hope and redemption. Despite the apparent rejection of God’s chosen people, the Apostle Paul assured the believers that God had not abandoned them. He revealed a divine plan that would ultimately lead to the salvation of all Israel. We must hold fast to this promise as we move forward. Though the path may seem uncertain, we can trust in the unfailing love and wisdom of our Heavenly Father. We will explore how this message of hope can transform our lives and empower us to live as ambassadors of God’s reconciling grace in the next chapter.