Romans 11 reminds me of the passion some former smokers have toward those that are killing themselves with tobacco. They are not anti-smoker; their desire is to enlighten those caught in the deadly habit. Some who have experienced renewed health after quitting will challenge the untroubled attitude that traps others in the addiction. Today’s lesson is about opening the eyes of the deceived. Some Christians (then and still today) believe the Jewish people have been replaced as God’s chosen people. The apostle Paul rejects that notion completely. “Did God reject His people? By no means!” He adds, “I am an Israelite myself”. Paul is clearly not anti-Jew. The history of the nation of Israel shows a repeated cycle of disobedience, judgement; repentance and restoration. Paul notes that in every one of these cycles, “there is a remnant chosen by grace” to lead the nation back to God. Paul describes the season of separation; “God gave them a spirit of stupor”. That is, an acceptance that everything is ok as is. But Paul is very clear, the restoration of God’s chosen people is coming. “Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all!” Salvation will come, but for now fulfillment is offered to the Gentiles. “Because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious”. This was part of God’s plan because “their rejection brought reconciliation to the world”. Salvation through Christ is now open to all who seek spiritual renewal. Are you sick of being sick?
Paul pictures an olive tree. He describes the Gentiles as a wild olive shoot grafted into the established tree, being nourished by the sap from the holy root. Speaking to the Gentile believers, Paul firmly states “You do not support the root, but the root supports you”. Paul does not want the church to think it is superior to the nation from which it grew. “Do not be arrogant, but tremble. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare you either”. Make no mistake, God’s grace is a gift that should be received with gratitude, and shared with others. Paul warns, “Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God”. He urges believers to “continue in His kindness”. I believe this is an encouragement to live in a way that others will see the benefits of a healthy heart. Paul taught that there will be a time when “the natural branches” will be “grafted into their own olive tree”. He says Israel will remain separated only, “until the full number of the Gentiles has come in”. After that, “all Israel will be saved”. Friend, is it time to quit the self-destructive habit of pride?
The chapter closes with an exhortation to the reformed. The promise of redemption that was given to the Patriarchs is extended to everyone today. Paul says “God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable”. That means God keeps His promises forever. Paul cautions believers to remember “you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy”. Those who have been forgiven much, love much. Humility reminds us there is no such thing as a former sinner. Atonement was established by the blood of the Lamb. As a result, followers of Christ are not to stay in a separate section looking down on those pursuing worldly pleasure. We are to have compassion on those unaware of the danger of spiritual apathy. The Holy Spirit of God brings healing and hope to light the way, “that they too may now receive mercy”. The chapter ends with a question about motivation. “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?” We cannot repay God, we can only reflect His love by being inconvenienced enough to love others. “We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). You are the remnant of Grace. My friend, do you have enough passion to tell your story to those still in denial?