1 I am speaking the truth in Christ—I am not lying; my conscience bears me witness in the Holy Spirit.
2 that I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart.
3 For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh.
4 They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises.
5 To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen.
6 But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel,
7 and not all are children of Abraham because they are his offspring, but “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.”
8 This means that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring.
9 For this is what the promise said: “About this time next year I will return, and Sarah shall have a son.”
10 And not only so, but also when Rebekah had conceived children by one man, our forefather Isaac,
11 though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad—in order that God’s purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls—
12 she was told, “The older will serve the younger.”
13 As it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”
14 What shall we say then? Is there injustice on God’s part? By no means!
15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”
16 So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.
17 For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”
18 So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills.
19 You will say to me then, “Why does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?”
20 But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, “Why have you made me like this?”
21 Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for dishonorable use?
22 What if God, desiring to show his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction,
23 in order to make known the riches of his glory for vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory—
24 even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles?
25 As indeed he says in Hosea, “Those who were not my people I will call ‘my people,’ and her who was not beloved I will call ‘beloved.’”
26 “And in the very place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people,’ there they will be called ‘sons of the living God.’”
27 And Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: “Though the number of the sons of Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will be saved,
28 for the Lord will carry out his sentence upon the earth fully and without delay.”
29 And as Isaiah predicted, “If the Lord of hosts had not left us offspring, we would have been like Sodom and become like Gomorrah.”
30 What shall we say, then? That Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness have attained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith;
31 but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law.
32 Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone,
33 as it is written, “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
The True Meaning of Romans 9
The Apostle Paul, a former Pharisee who encountered the risen Christ, wrote the Epistle to the Romans. Paul grapples with the complex relationship between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility, particularly in regards to the Jewish people’s rejection of the Messiah in this chapter.
Paul begins by expressing his deep sorrow over his fellow Israelites’ refusal to accept Jesus as the promised Savior. He acknowledges their privileged status as God’s chosen people, who were entrusted with the covenants, the law, and the promises. Yet, despite these blessings, many of them have stumbled over the “stumbling stone” of Christ (Romans 9:32-33).
The chapter goes on to explore the mystery of God’s election, as Paul reminds his readers that not all who are descended from Israel are truly Israel (Romans 9:6). He cites examples from the Old Testament, such as God’s selection of Isaac over Ishmael and Jacob over Esau, to illustrate the principle of divine sovereignty in choosing who will be part of His people.
This passage challenges us to wrestle with the profound questions of God’s justice, mercy, and the role of human free will in the outworking of His redemptive plan. As we delve into this chapter, we will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in God’s dealings with His chosen nation and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.
Romans 9:1-5
The apostle Paul expresses his deep anguish and sorrow over the spiritual condition of his fellow Israelites in Romans 9:1-5. He is so distressed that he even goes as far as to say that he could wish himself accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of his brothers, the people of Israel. This reveals the intense love and concern that Paul has for his own nation, despite the fact that they have largely rejected Christ.
Paul then goes on to list the many blessings that the Israelites have received from God. They were adopted as God’s children, given the glory of God, the covenants, the law, the temple worship, and the promises. These were all special privileges that were bestowed upon the nation of Israel. The mention of the covenants is significant as it highlights God’s faithfulness to His promises throughout the Old Testament, particularly with figures like Abraham, Moses, and David.
Furthermore, in verse 5, Paul states that from the Israelites came the patriarchs, and from them, the Messiah, who is God over all, forever praised. This acknowledgment of Jesus as the Messiah, who is God Himself, emphasizes the culmination of God’s plan of salvation through the Jewish lineage. This recognition underscores the importance of Jesus’ Jewish heritage and how God’s promise of a Messiah was fulfilled through Him.
Paul’s lamentation in these verses reflects a broader theme in the Bible concerning the relationship between God and His chosen people. Throughout the Old Testament, we see God’s faithfulness to Israel despite their continual disobedience. The blessings mentioned by Paul in Romans 9:1-5 demonstrate the grace and favor that God showed to Israel, underscoring the concept of God’s chosen people and His sovereign grace. Paul delves into the concept of God’s sovereignty in choosing His people in the broader context of Romans 9. He addresses the issue of Israel’s rejection of Christ and explains that not all who are descended from Israel are considered Israel. Paul argues that God’s promises have not failed because His true children are determined by faith rather than by lineage. This theme of God’s sovereignty and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan is a recurring theme in Paul’s writings and highlights the universal scope of God’s salvation. Romans 9:1-5 ultimately serves as a poignant reminder of God’s faithfulness, human responsibility, and the overarching plan of salvation that encompasses both Jews and Gentiles. It also challenges believers to examine their own hearts and attitudes towards those who may have rejected Christ, reminding us of the importance of love, compassion, and a desire for the salvation of all people.
Romans 9:6-13
The passage in Romans 9:6-13 starts with the distinction between physical descendants of Abraham and his true spiritual descendants. Paul is clarifying that not all who are descended from Israel are true Israelites. This statement is crucial as it sets the stage for Paul’s discussion on God’s sovereignty in choosing His people and the rejection of the notion that being a descendant of Abraham guarantees salvation. Paul is emphasizing that salvation is not based on one’s ancestry or works but on God’s sovereign choice.
The reference to Sarah and Hagar in verses 9-13 is particularly significant in understanding Paul’s argument. Sarah was Abraham’s wife, and through her, the promised son Isaac was born. Isaac was a result of God’s miraculous intervention since Sarah was barren. On the other hand, Hagar was Sarah’s maidservant, and Abraham had a son, Ishmael, through her. Ishmael’s birth was a result of human intervention and lack of faith in God’s promise.
Paul uses the example of Isaac and Ishmael to illustrate the concept of God’s sovereign choice in salvation. God chose Isaac, the child of promise, to carry on the lineage of the covenant, while Ishmael, though also a descendant of Abraham, was not chosen for this specific purpose. This shows that God’s election is not based on human efforts or bloodline but on His divine will and purpose.
The story of Isaac and Ishmael can be traced back to Genesis, where Abraham’s faith and obedience were tested regarding the promise of a son. Despite Sarah’s disbelief, God fulfilled His promise, demonstrating His faithfulness and sovereignty. This narrative reinforces the idea that God’s plan prevails over human limitations and doubts. It underscores the importance of faith in God’s promises and the fulfillment of His sovereign will.
Paul’s message in Romans 9 challenges the traditional understanding of salvation based on lineage or works. He emphasizes that God’s choice is not bound by human standards but by His own will. This passage serves as a reminder for believers to trust in God’s sovereignty and to recognize that salvation is a gift granted by His grace, not earned through human merit. We can deepen our understanding of God’s redemptive plan for humanity by delving into these narratives and connecting them to larger biblical themes of faith, promise, and divine sovereignty.
Romans 9:14-18
Paul poses a rhetorical question in Romans 9:14-18, reflecting a notion that was likely on the minds of some readers. He asks, “What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all!” This question is significant as it addresses the concept of God’s justice and fairness, especially in the context of God’s sovereign choice in matters of election. Paul’s response, “Not at all!” highlights his firm belief in the righteousness of God even when it may not align with human understanding or expectation.
Continuing in the passage, Paul quotes from the Old Testament, referring to God’s words to Moses in Exodus 33:19, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” This quotation serves to emphasize God’s sovereignty and the freedom He has in choosing whom He will show mercy and compassion to. This connects to the broader theme of election, where God, out of His own will and purpose, chooses individuals for His redemptive plan.
The mention of Pharaoh in verse 17 is a reference to the account in Exodus where Pharaoh hardened his heart against God despite witnessing numerous miracles and displays of God’s power through Moses. Pharaoh serves as an example of someone who resisted God’s will and faced the consequences of his actions. Paul uses Pharaoh to illustrate God’s right to harden hearts or show mercy as He sees fit. This narrative underscores the importance of humility and submission to God’s will, as resisting it can lead to judgment and downfall. Paul concludes by emphasizing that God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden in verse 18. This may be a challenging concept for some to grasp, as it delves into the depths of God’s sovereignty and the mystery of His ways. However, it serves as a reminder of the supremacy of God’s will and the limitations of human understanding. This notion is further supported by verses such as Isaiah 55:8-9, where God’s ways are described as higher than human ways, and Job 42:2, where Job acknowledges that no purpose of God can be thwarted. Romans 9:14-18 delves into the profound theological questions of God’s justice, sovereignty, and mercy. It challenges readers to trust in God’s wisdom and righteousness, even when His ways may seem unfathomable to human reasoning. The passage highlights the importance of humility before God, acknowledging His authority in all matters, and ultimately points to the transcendent nature of God’s character and purpose throughout the biblical narrative.
Romans 9:19-26
The passage in Romans 9:19-26 begins with a question that could easily arise in the minds of many when contemplating the doctrine of predestination and God’s sovereignty over all creation. It says, “One of you will say to me: ‘Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?’” This query delves into the tension between human free will and God’s ultimate control. Paul’s response to this question is crucial in understanding the intricate tapestry of God’s plan for salvation.
Paul’s answer to this query is profound, as he uses the analogy of a potter molding clay to illustrate God’s absolute sovereignty over His creation. He asserts that humans, as creatures, have no right to question the Creator for how He chooses to display His mercy and wrath. Just as a potter has the right to make different vessels for diverse purposes from the same lump of clay, God has the right to choose individuals for honorable or dishonorable use according to His divine will.
This passage in Romans 9 also references the Old Testament, quoting from the book of Isaiah regarding God’s selection of individuals for His purposes. Paul quotes, “I will call them ‘my people’ who are not my people; and I will call her ‘my loved one’ who is not my loved one.” This points back to Israel’s history and God’s faithfulness despite their unfaithfulness. It signifies God’s intention to extend His covenant beyond the Jewish people to include the Gentiles as well, as part of His redemptive plan for all humanity.
The mention of Hosea in verses 25-26 further emphasizes this inclusion of the Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation. Hosea’s prophetic ministry involved marrying a prostitute as a symbol of Israel’s unfaithfulness to God. Through this act, Hosea vividly depicted God’s unwavering love and His ability to restore even those who had strayed far from Him. This underscores the theme of God’s mercy and grace transcending human understanding, encompassing both Jews and Gentiles in His redemptive purposes. Romans 9:19-26 delves into profound theological truths about God’s sovereignty, human responsibility, and the inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles in His redemptive plan. It serves as a reminder of the complexity of divine providence and the unfathomable depths of God’s mercy and grace. This passage challenges readers to trust in God’s wisdom and goodness, even when His ways seem mysterious and beyond human comprehension, for He alone is the potter who shapes our destinies according to His perfect will.
Romans 9:27-29
Isaiah cries out concerning Israel in Romans 9:27-29, stating that only a remnant of the sons of Israel, though numerous as the sand of the sea, will be saved, as the Lord will carry out his sentence upon the earth fully and without delay.’ And as Isaiah predicted, ‘If the Lord of hosts had not left us offspring, we would have been like Sodom and become like Gomorrah. The apostle Paul is quoting the prophet Isaiah in this section to illustrate God’s plan for the salvation of Israel. The reference to the remnant of Israel being saved despite their vast numbers echoes back to the Old Testament theme of God’s faithfulness to a select group of people who remain true to Him, even when the majority fall away. This idea of a remnant is seen throughout the Bible, particularly in the history of Israel where only a small faithful group remained amidst the apostasy of the nation.
Isaiah’s comparison of Israel to Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a stark warning of the consequences of turning away from God. Sodom and Gomorrah were cities known for their wickedness and were ultimately destroyed by God as a result of their sinfulness. Through this analogy, Isaiah emphasizes the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God in order to avoid a similar fate.
The mention of Isaiah in these verses highlights the continuity and consistency of God’s message throughout the Old and New Testaments. Isaiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament who prophesied about the coming Messiah and the future of Israel. Paul is showing that God’s plan for salvation has been foretold long before and is now being fulfilled through Jesus Christ by quoting Isaiah.
This passage also emphasizes the sovereignty of God in carrying out His plan of salvation. The Lord’s judgment is certain and will be executed without delay. It reinforces the idea that God’s purposes will be accomplished, and His promises will be fulfilled, regardless of human actions or circumstances. Romans 9:27-29 serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His chosen people, the importance of remaining faithful to Him, and the consequences of turning away from His ways. It highlights the continuity of God’s plan throughout history and the ultimate sovereignty of God in fulfilling His purposes. This passage invites readers to reflect on their own faithfulness to God and the importance of remaining part of the remnant who are saved through faith in Jesus Christ.
Romans 9:30-33
The apostle Paul delves into the concept of righteousness based on faith versus righteousness based on works in Romans 9:30-33. The passage reads, “What shall we say then? That Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness have attained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith; but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law. Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written, ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame. Understanding the distinction Paul is making between the Gentiles and Israel is crucial in the first part of this passage. The Gentiles, who were not seeking righteousness through the Law but rather through faith, have been able to attain righteousness. This challenges the traditional Jewish thought at the time that righteousness came through strict adherence to the Mosaic Law. Israel, which diligently followed the Law but without faith, failed to reach true righteousness in contrast. This highlights a key theme in Paul’s letters, emphasizing that salvation is not earned through works but through faith in Christ.
The stumbling stone mentioned in the passage refers to Jesus Christ, who became a stumbling block for many Jews who were expecting a triumphant Messiah in a worldly sense. The paradoxical nature of Jesus Christ as a stumbling stone and a rock of offense underscores the incomprehensibility of God’s plan to human wisdom. Those who believe in Him, however, will not be put to shame. This echoes the prophetic words in Isaiah 28:16, emphasizing the importance of faith in Christ as the cornerstone of salvation.
This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless message of salvation through faith in Christ alone. It challenges the notion of self-righteousness and legalism, pointing to the centrality of faith in God’s redemptive plan. It also highlights the universal scope of God’s grace, extending salvation to both Jews and Gentiles. Through the stumbling stone of Christ, believers are called to trust in Him wholeheartedly, knowing that their righteousness is not based on their own efforts but on the finished work of Jesus on the cross.
After Romans 9
The apostle Paul grapples with the concept of God’s sovereignty in choosing His people in this chapter. He explains that God’s choice is not based on human works, but on His own will and purpose. Paul uses the examples of Jacob and Esau to illustrate this point, showing that God’s choice is not dependent on human effort or merit. Despite the Israelites’ privileged position as God’s chosen people, not all of them will be saved. Paul emphasizes that it is God’s mercy and grace that ultimately determine who will be called His children. As we reflect on the truths revealed in this chapter, let us remember that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. We should humbly submit to His will and trust in His sovereign plan for our lives. We will delve deeper into the mystery of God’s plan for both Jews and Gentiles in the next chapter. We eagerly anticipate the unfolding of God’s redemptive work in the world as we continue our study of the book of Romans.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.