tom hogsed

As this wonderful letter to the Christians at Rome concludes, we must take time to reflect back on Paul’s teaching regarding the gospel (death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ for our sin). His letter is one of the most detailed treatments of the gospel throughout Scripture and provides a greater understanding to those who will receive and believe it as truth. There were three aspects of salvation which Paul uncovers for our benefit: all are sinners deserving of God’s wrath (1:18-3:20), all sinners can be declared righteous (justified) through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ (3:21-5:21), and all those who have been declared righteous through Christ are in the process of becoming righteous (sanctification) in their daily life (6:1-8:39). After informing his readers of these three aspects of salvation, Paul illustrates the sovereign work of God in salvation by using the nation of Israel as an example (9:1-11:36). Following an extensive treatment of God’s sovereignty in salvation, Paul returns to the last aspect of salvation which is the process of sanctification. This process is a battle between the old, sinful flesh and the new, righteous man through Jesus Christ – resisting sin and obeying God’s ways. Romans 12-15 characterizes the one who has been made righteous through Jesus Christ: serves God with spiritual gifts (12:3-8), has right behavior (12:9-21), submits to government authority (13:1-7), loves others (13:8-10), resists the flesh while submitting to God (13:11-14), and finds unity amongst diversity (14:1-15:13).

In Paul’s concluding words to the believers at Rome, he provides a large list of people to whom he wishes to express love and appreciation. First of all, he mentions Phoebe (a servant in the church at Cenchrea) who was the one who delivered this letter to the believers at Rome. Paul asked that they “receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also” (16:1-2). Aquila and Priscilla, co-workers with Paul, are also mentioned because they “risked their own necks for my life” (16:3-5a). Although we are not certain of the details surrounding this precarious situation, it appears that this couple experienced a harrowing experience in order to protect Paul.

Next, Paul extends his greetings to an extensive list of people in Romans 16:5b-16 and then stops in the midst of this list to give them a warning against tolerating divisive people:

Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary
to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such
do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and
flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience has
become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be
wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace
will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be
with you. Amen. (Romans 16:17-20)

After this brief warning, Paul resumes by sending greetings to the believers at Rome from people such as Timothy and others (16:21-24). And then he closes out this letter with a benediction which gives glory and praise to God for revealing the mystery that salvation is brought to the Jews as well as the Gentiles (16:25-27). Although salvation was promised to the Gentiles in the Old Testament Scriptures, the truth of those prophecies was not fully realized until now and Paul was grateful that he had a part in delivering the gospel to the Gentiles.

The letter written to the Roman Christians should cause those who read it to rejoice in the salvation offered to all who will repent and believe in Jesus Christ. Romans 10:9-10, 12-13 is a worthy way to conclude our study in Paul’s letter to the Roman believers:

…that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart
that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the
heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made
unto salvation. For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the
same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For “whoever calls on
the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Dear God, thank You that salvation is a gift to all those who will repent and believe in Jesus Christ. May I never forget that Your mercy was clearly demonstrated by sending Your only Son, Jesus, to provide the righteousness I needed to be saved. Now may I live my life in righteousness.

Since the twelfth chapter of Romans, Paul has been providing insight to his readers in Rome concerning the transformation which occurs following repentance and faith in Jesus Christ (explained in Romans 1-11). Serving God with spiritual gifts (12:3-8), having right behavior (12:9-21), submitting to government authority (13:1-7), loving others (13:8-10), resisting the flesh while submitting to God (13:11-14), and finding unity amongst diversity (14:1-23) were the main characteristics of those whose faith is genuine. Although these attitudes and actions do not change instantaneously, the believer should allow the word of God to transform his thinking (12:1-2) while the Holy Spirit empowers him to follow God’s ways (8:4). This process of resisting sin and living in daily obedience to God is called sanctification, which Paul discussed in detail in Romans 6:1-8:39.

In Romans 14, Paul had commanded them to set aside their differences in traditions and backgrounds so they could love God and love others in unity. Believers have a tendency to emphasize that which is non-essential and ignore those things which unify them, so Paul was calling the more mature believers to embrace the less mature believers for the sake of unity. Paul continues this theme into Romans 15 when he writes, “We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples [weaknesses] of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification” (15:1-2). The goal in Christian relationships is not to tear down each other, but to support and strengthen one another. This means that sometimes more mature Christians must set aside their freedoms in order to find unity with those who are weak in the faith. Even Jesus Christ gave us example by setting aside His freedoms in order to do the will of God (15:3). Although sacrificing freedom takes patience and endurance, Paul declares that the end result will be that believers “may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God” (15:6-7). Referring to the Old Testament Scriptures, Paul reveals that God’s heart has always been to bring Jews and Gentiles together in unity, even though they are different (15:8-12). How can unity be accomplished? Instead of finding what makes us distinct, we must find commonality through faith in Jesus Christ (15:13).

Paul concludes his teaching on the characteristics of those who have been declared righteous (Romans 12:1-15:13) and now begins to close his letter to the Christians at Rome by explaining his motives in writing (15:14-16:27). Mainly, Paul wrote to the believers at Rome to strengthen them in their faith and to make the gospel known to the Gentiles (15:14-21).

Although Paul had not been able to personally visit the Christians in Rome at the time of this writing, he wanted them to know that he desired to see them soon (15:22-24). In the meantime, he would return to Jerusalem to deliver the financial gift given to the church which was collected in Macedonia and Achaia (15:25-26). It was their way of expressing gratitude for the Jews sending the gospel to the Gentiles (15:27-28a). Paul asked the believers at Rome to pray for him (15:30) that he ” may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, that I may come to you with joy by the will of God, and may be refreshed together with you” (15:31-32).

Dear God, help me to do everything I can to bring unity to the church so that You might be glorified.

The first eleven chapters of Romans helped Paul’s readers develop a better understanding of their salvation in Jesus Christ. Although they were sinners (1:18-3:20), Jesus Christ took the penalty of sin upon Himself and all those who would accept His payment (for sin) in place of their own death would be made righteous before God (3:31-5:21). The moment they were made righteous, the Holy Spirit enters in and begins the process of changing their attitudes and actions (6:1-8:39). No longer should their deeds be selfish and evil, but instead God would empower them to do good works. These changes would not automatically take place, but as a person submits to God’s word he starts to see his life transformed.

Beginning in Romans 12 Paul provides insight into these changes – serve God with our spiritual gifts (12:3-8), have right behavior (12:9-21), submit to government authority (13:1-7), love others (13:8-10), and resist the flesh while submitting to God (13:11-14). Again, these things do not happen by chance, but as a person gives control to the Holy Spirit in daily living (Ephesians 5:8-21). In Romans 14 Paul began revealing another big area of change – unity. Believers would no longer be divided by their traditions and backgrounds, but they would learn to lovingly accept one another. Although Jews and Gentiles alike were receiving salvation and forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ, they were having a hard time letting go of some of their past experiences. Less mature Jewish believers were looking down on more mature Jewish believers who no longer participated in some of the rituals of the ceremonial law. On the other hand, the more mature Jewish believers were intolerant of those Jews with a weaker conscience. The Gentiles were also guilty of not respecting each other. Gentiles with a weaker conscience were judging other Gentiles who chose to eat meat which had been offered to idols and sold in the market. The more mature Gentile believers knew that the idols were worthless so they did not see a problem with eating this meat and felt as if the less mature Gentile believers were being judgmental. In both cases, Paul wanted the Jews and Gentiles to develop a healthy respect for one another because the things over which they were disputing had no bearing on their salvation. In essence, Paul was promoting a unity amongst diversity.

However, in the last part of Romans 14 Paul gave special instructions concerning their behavior in matters of preference. Paul writes,

Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to
put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way. I know and
am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to
him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. Yet if
your brother is grieved because of your food, you are no longer walking in
love. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died.
Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil…” (14:13b-16).

Although Paul acknowledged that there are some issues which are non-essentials, he also advocated having respect for differing viewpoints. The more mature believer should not flaunt his liberty in the presence of a less mature believer for fear that he may hinder his spiritual growth. Even though a believer is free in Christ, he must be conscious of how his choices affect those around him. As a side note, Paul is not granting permission to engage in those things God clearly labels as sin, but he is granting freedom to choose in those matters which may be unclear.

Instead of dwelling on those things which make believers different (Paul is not speaking about doctrinal issues), they should rather pursue “the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another” (14:17-19). It is important that Christians not be involved in arguing about things which destroy God’s work (14:20).

Paul closes out his teaching on this subject regarding unity in diversity by giving a guiding principle to his readers, “It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak…. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin” (14:21-23). Mature believers should respect those who may be offended at their freedoms. Less mature believers should not judge others, but they also must not train themselves to violate their conscience. Paul’s teaching in Romans 14 is an important one. Believers should practice love and acceptance with one another even when there is a differing opinion. The point is not in always being right, but always being righteous.

Dear God, give me a respect for those who may be shaped by different backgrounds and experiences. Teach me to accept and love them.

Condemnation (1:18-3:20), justification (3:21-5:21), sanctification (6:1-8:39), and the story of Israel (9:1-11:36) are the issues which have, so far, comprised Paul’s letter to the Roman Christians. Each of these issues was meant to bring a fuller understanding of the salvation they had received through repentance and faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as payment for their sin (Romans 10:9-10). At the moment of faith, the Holy Spirit indwells the believer and begins the process of sanctification, which is resisting sin and following God’s ways. Although works play no part in justification (being declared righteous), good works are a natural result of receiving the righteousness of Jesus Christ (see Ephesians 2:8-10). In Romans 12, Paul began unveiling the character of those who have been freed from the penalty of sin (8:1-2) and made alive in Christ (8:11). Before we briefly review the changes which take place, we must realize that it is the Holy Spirit who uses the word of God to bring new attitudes and actions. Consistent time spent reading God’s word will allow the Spirit to change us (12:1-2).

So what changes will take place in our lives? Paul has already stated that we will serve God with our spiritual gifts (12:3-8), have right behavior (12:9-21), submit to government authority (13:1-7), love others (13:8-10), and resist the flesh while submitting to God (13:11-14). Now, in Romans 14 Paul provides another area of change – finding unity even though we are different. The church of Paul’s day was filled with Jews and Gentiles and they were very distinct in their traditions; in fact, they had very little in common. This sometimes caused division within the church because people from different backgrounds were being brought together through faith in Jesus Christ. Two diverse groups under one roof equals possible chaos. However, Paul reminded his readers that the church did not have to be divided and unity was attainable. But how could unity be tangible? Paul provides several governing principles to be applied.

The situation is this – mature Jewish believers viewed themselves as free from obeying the ceremonial points of the law (eating regulations, observance of certain days, etc.), which may have been offensive to a new (weaker, immature) Jewish believers. The more mature Jewish believers knew that the ceremonial law could not bring God’s favor; however, the weaker Jewish believers felt that they should still respect the ceremonial laws and were offended when those who were more mature did not follow it. This caused some controversy. The other situation is related to Gentile believers in the church. Since Gentiles came from a pagan system of beliefs and values, many of them had been involved in idol worship and offering meats to false gods as a form of worship. So, when they came to faith in Jesus Christ they were offended when more mature Gentile believers would eat meat which they purchased in the market even though it had been previously offered to idols. In both situations, Jews and Gentiles, the conflict was concerning the weak conscience of the immature believer. In anticipation that the weaker believers may not understand, Paul wrote these principles to guide those who were more mature in their faith.

First of all, Paul commands the mature believers to “receive [accept] one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things” (14:1). Those who were mature were not to cast judgment on those with a weaker conscience, but rather each should have respect for the other because God has accepted them both (14:2-3). John MacArthur gives insight into Romans 14:3, “The strong hold the weak in contempt as legalistic and self-righteous; the weak judge the strong to be irresponsible at best and perhaps depraved” (MacArthur Study Bible, p. 1720). This should not be. Paul writes that each person, whether strong or weak, should be guided by their own conscience (14:5) and be thankful to God for their choice in matters of conscience (14:6). Rather than spending their energy standing in judgment of others, they should recognize God as the final verdict on matters of freedom (14:7-13a). Again, Paul is not referring to issues which are clearly defined in Scripture (hatred, gossip, stealing, lying, rebellion, etc.), but issues which Scripture does NOT clearly define.

Every believer needs to personally learn how to have respect for those who come from distinct backgrounds and traditions. Our focus should be on those things which bring us together, not on issues which make us different.

Dear God, give me a respect for those who may think differently than me. May I show them love and acceptance in all things.

Romans 12 marked a major shift in Paul’s writing to the churches at Rome. In the first eleven chapters Paul took his readers on a journey to discover the fullness of their salvation through Jesus Christ. His words throughout the first part of the letter are the most detailed description of the gospel in all of Scripture and provides a deeper understanding of man’s sinfulness (1:18-3:20), God’s provision of righteousness through Jesus Christ (3:21-5:21), and the Holy Spirit’s work in the believer (6:1-8:39). Without Paul’s clear presentation in the first eleven chapters of Romans, it would be complicated to comprehend Romans 12-15 because they describe the outworking of man’s righteousness in his daily life. Belief in the gospel leads to changed behavior. As Paul introduced the need to change through the Spirit’s power, he reminded his readers that they were to give themselves over to God as a “living sacrifice” and “be transformed by the renewing of your [their] mind” (12:1-2). Since Scripture is God’s way to communicate His will, those who believe, need to give much time over to reading the Bible. This allows God to change the old, sinful ways for His ways. Paul writes about numerous changes in behavior throughout Romans 12 which should now be reflected in the attitudes and actions of a Christian. Although these statements are brief, Paul makes God’s commands known.

In Romans 13 Paul continues to identify points of change by revealing two more areas: submitting to government authority (13:1-7) and loving others (13:8-10). First of all, Paul commands believers to obey the governmental authority placed over them because God is the one who has allowed that government system to be established (13:1). If anyone ignores the government’s authority then they are really disobeying God’s authority and inviting His judgment (13:2). Instead of viewing government as a negative entity, Paul challenges his readers to see them as an institution which helps bring justice upon evil people (13:3a). There was no need to fear government if they remained submissive to the laws put in place, but those who disobey are guaranteed swift punishment (13:3b-5). It appears that one of the issues Paul wanted to make sure his readers understood regarding government was that believers are obligated to pay taxes (13:6-7). Even Jesus set the example for His followers when He submitted Himself to the government and paid the temple taxes He owed (see Matthew 17:24-27). Jesus also gave another clear instruction on paying taxes in Matthew 22:17-21.

Not only should followers of Christ submit to government authority, but they should also love one another (13:8). Since loving others is the summation of God’s law (13:9), Christians should do everything in their power to express genuine love to others, whether that individual is a believer or unbeliever. One of the ways we can measure our love toward others is by asking ourselves, “Am I loving others with the same love I have for myself?” Most people love themselves and will make choices which bring personal benefit, so we should take on that same attitude when interacting with others. When we love others as ourselves, we fulfill the law; in other words, we are obeying God’s laws concerning relationships.

Paul urges his readers to obey what he is saying and guard against casual Christian living (13:11a). The knowledge that Jesus Christ will return one day should be a motivating factor for living holy lives in the present (13:11b-12a). Living in “revelry [wild living] and drunkenness…lewdness and lust [sexual immorality]…strife and envy” (13:13) should not characterize those who have been made righteous through Jesus Christ. Instead, a believer should cast off the works of darkness (13:12b), put on the armor of light (13:12c), walk properly (13:13a), put on the Lord Jesus Christ (13:14a), and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts (13:14b). This is the transformation Paul was alluding to in Romans 12:1-2. When a person repents of sin and believes in Jesus Christ (10:9-10), he is immediately made righteous and begins the process of sanctification, which is resisting sin and obeying God’s ways. A person whose faith is genuine will begin this process of change with the goal of being transformed into the likeness of Christ. As we allow God’s word to change our thinking, our attitudes and actions will eventually follow. Do you see evidence of God’s transforming power in your life?

Dear God, through the power of the Holy Spirit, I pray that You would enable me to resist sin and follow all of Your ways.

Romans 12 marks a huge transition in Paul’s writing to the Christians at Rome. Thus far (Romans 1-11), Paul’s words have been very doctrinal in nature and he has mainly covered the topic of salvation. Very foundational to the doctrine of salvation are three aspects: all men are sinners deserving of God’s wrath – condemnation (1:18-3:20), God sent Jesus to provide the righteousness man needed in order to be saved from God’s wrath – justification (3:21-5:21), and man’s righteousness through Jesus Christ will be demonstrated in his actions – sanctification (6:1-8:39). After providing the most detailed teachings about salvation found in Scripture, Paul then focuses his attention on Israel’s response to the salvation given to mankind through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (9:1-11:36). Although Israel has rejected Jesus Christ as the Savior from sin, God’s plans have not been ruined and they can be guaranteed He will again bring salvation to the Jews.

Paul’s goal was not just to impart information onto his readers so they would have more knowledge, but also to remind them of their responsibility to practice righteousness in their attitudes and actions. Knowledge without application is useless. Since those who had been declared righteous through Jesus Christ were no longer under the power or penalty of sin, they were free to live in God’s ways. So, what does living in God’s ways look like? Paul answers this question in Romans 12:1-15:13.

Many of Paul’s readers had been justified (declared righteous) in the eyes of God and were now indwelt with the Holy Spirit of God. As Paul had earlier instructed them, the Holy Spirit empowers the believer to fulfill God’s ways (8:4) and enables him to please God; therefore, his daily attitudes and actions will change. Paul writes, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service” (12:1). This verse is reminiscent of Romans 6:13b where Paul commands believers to “…present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members [bodies] as instruments of righteousness to God.” Those who follow Christ are dead to themselves and alive to be used by God for His purposes. Instead of adapting to the world’s philosophies and system of values and beliefs, Paul commands us to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind…” (12:2). Being renewed carries the idea of changing the old for new. Old selfish desires should be resisted while the new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17) in Christ should be obeyed. How is this done? The Holy Spirit uses the word of God to change our thinking, which in turn will change our attitudes and actions. True change cannot be accomplished without the spending time reading God’s word.

One of the results of becoming new in Christ is to use your God-given resources and abilities for the benefit of God’s work (12:3-8). Every believer is given a spiritual gift(s) to serve God and others. Paul mentions a few of those possible gifts in Romans 12:6-8 – prophesying (proclaiming God’s truth), ministering (serving), teaching, exhorting (challenging others in their faith), giving, leading, and showing mercy (see also 1 Corinthians 12:12-20). Although this is not an exhaustive list, God expects His followers to use their giftedness in order to bring attention to His love and mercy.

Following his challenge to use spiritual gifts, Paul begins to define the actions (behavior) and character of a person who love God and others. Most of these are self-explanatory, so I will allow Scripture to speak for itself.

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving
preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving
the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in
prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless
those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who
rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one
another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do
not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard
for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as
depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge
yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is
Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore “If your enemy is hungry,
feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap
coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil
with good (Romans 12:9-21).

Do not miss what Paul is saying here. These short commands are worthy to be obeyed.

Dear God, may my beliefs affect my behavior.

Beginning in Romans 9, Paul writes regarding the response of Israel to the gospel of Jesus Christ. So far, he has revealed that they rejected Jesus Christ as the Savior from sin (9:1-5), but that their reaction to the gospel was not outside of God’s purposes (9:6-33). Paul then communicates to his readers that Israel should have quit trying to earn God’s favor through human effort, but rather received the righteousness of God provided through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (10:1-13). The gospel had been revealed in the Old Testament, both for Jews and Gentiles, but the nation of Israel had ignored the word of God (10:1-18) and since Israel had ignored the plan of salvation through Jesus Christ, God would now focus on bringing the gospel to the Gentiles (10:19-21).

Anticipating that some controversy would arise over his words in Romans 10, Paul explains that although Israel rejected Jesus Christ, God would not forget His people (11:1-2a). Paul points to the prophet Elijah, frustrated with Israel’s disobedience, who prayed (11:2b), “Lord, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life” (11:3). In response to Elijah’s prayer God says, “I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal” (11:4). This is a reminder that God loves His people and even when some may reject Him, there will always be a group in Israel who choose to worship God. Just like there was a group of 7,000 Israelites in Elijah’s day who did not worship Baal, Paul says that in this “present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace” (11:5). What makes the difference in this present time? Those who receive salvation through grace will be saved (the elect) and those who attempt to obtain salvation through works (the blinded) will remain in sin (11:6-7). Many in Israel had chosen to seek God’s righteousness through their works and obedience to the law of Moses. Using Old Testament quotes, Paul shows how this is in God’s plan.

In case Paul’s Jewish readers thought that God had permanently turned His back on Israel, he was quick to remind them that their rejection of Jesus and the Gentiles’ reception of the gospel would provoke Israel to return to God (11:11-12). As difficult as it may be to understand, the salvation of “lowly” Gentiles would ultimately bring the nation of Israel back to Him (11:13-15).

God’s favor on the Gentiles may cause them to become prideful, so Paul gave them a stern warning using a tree as an illustration (11:16-24). The root represented salvation given to Abraham by grace through faith and the branches represented the people of Israel, who were God’s chosen people (11:16). Some of the people in Israel broke away from the root (the unbelieving) while some had remained (the believing) but there were also some branches which were grafted onto the root (believing Gentiles). Although the “Gentile branches” were from a wild olive tree, they were made a part of the chosen olive tree (11:17); however, the Gentile branches should “not boast against the branches [unbelieving Jews]” (11:18a). The Gentiles should always be aware that they are not God’s covenant people, but have been allowed to receive the benefits of the promise of salvation (11:18b). Paul continues to write,

Because of unbelief they [unbelieving Jews] were broken off, and you [believing
Gentiles] stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not
spare the natural branches [unbelieving Jews], He may not spare you [unbelieving
Gentiles] either. Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on
those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His
goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off (Romans 11:20-22).

Paul then provides a glimmer of hope for the unbelieving Jews saying, “…if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again (11:23). The key to being restored to God is belief, specifically belief that Jesus Christ was given as the payment for sin and offers righteousness to all who receive it by faith. Although Israel has been temporarily blinded to the truth and the Gentiles are receiving the truth, Israel will once again be open to the truth (11:25-26a). The Jews have rejected salvation since Jesus was presented as the Messiah and they will continue until the salvation of an appointed number of Gentiles is complete. Following that time many Jews will come to salvation, which is seen as the seven year tribulation period, because God will again offer salvation to them (11:30-31).

As Paul writes about God’s plan in saving Israel and the Gentiles, he begins to give God praise for His purposes,

Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How
unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! “For who has
known the mind of the Lord? Or who has become His counselor?” “Or who has
first given to Him And it shall be repaid to him?” For of Him and through
Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen (Romans
11:33-36).

Although God’s plans and purposes are not always understood by man, we can be confident in His ways because we know that He always does what is right.

Dear God, thank You for extending Your grace to Jews and Gentiles. I have confidence in the plans You have made.

Paul has mainly used his letter to the believers at Rome to instruct them about the salvation they have inherited by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Again, Paul’s emphasis thus far has been on man’s sinfulness (1:18-3:20), God’s provision of righteousness through Jesus Christ (3:21-5:21), and the Spirit’s work to change the believer (6:1-8:39). Beginning in Romans 9, Paul illustrates the nation of Israel’s response to God sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to provide forgiveness of sin. Paul wrote that Israel rejected Jesus as the Savior from sin and rather trusted in their obedience to the law of Moses for salvation. They believed human effort could earn them favor with God, when in reality the law only brought further condemnation because of their inability to fully keep the law. Some of Paul’s Jewish readers may be confused and wonder if God had abandoned His people, so Paul explained to them that salvation is a sovereign work of God in order to accomplish His purposes (Romans 9).Even though the nation of Israel, as a whole, had rejected Jesus Christ as the One sent to save them from sin, Paul expressed his heart for Israel to return to God:

Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be
saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not
according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness,
and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the
righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness
to everyone who believes (Romans 10:1-4)

Paul clearly stated that Israel must reject the notion that they can attain righteousness through their works (10:2-3) and embrace righteousness through the work of Jesus Christ alone (10:4). Digging a little deeper, Paul reminds them that God has made salvation accessible to them without obedience to the law. The law is only able to expose the sinfulness of man and was never meant to bring salvation. Paul then writes about how a person receives this righteousness through faith and apart from human effort, ” …if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (10:9-10). In order to receive righteousness, Paul gives two things which must take place – confession (repentance) and belief (faith). Confession is simply recognizing your sinfulness before a holy God and agreeing that breaking His law is offensive to Him. Confession or repentance is not a feeling of guilt for getting caught but an acknowledgment of wrongdoing. In addition to repentance, belief in Jesus’ death and resurrection as payment for sin will bring salvation. Why must a person express faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection? Jesus’ death was the payment for sin and His resurrection was proof that God accepted the sacrifice in place of sinners; therefore, the sinner can rightfully be declared righteous and guaranteed eternal life. Paul makes it clear that salvation is available to Jew and Gentile and “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (10:12-13). All those willing to repent and believe will be saved!

Following this simple call to salvation, Paul asks some piercing questions to his readers, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?” (10:14-15). In these verses, Paul is emphasizing the necessity of providing clarity to the gospel and calling people to repentance and faith because “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (10:17). When the gospel of Jesus Christ is spoken clearly, others have a chance to repent and believe.

Israel had every opportunity to hear the truth, but they chose to reject God’s provision for salvation through Jesus Christ (10:18-21). It is alarming that those who were so close to the word of God were so far away because of the hardness of their heart. Instead of accepting God’s mercy on the basis of Jesus, they depended in their own efforts. There are many people today who mirror the nation of Israel’s response to the gospel – they have created their own system of religion and ignored the truth. There is only one way to find righteousness and salvation from eternal damnation – repentance of sin and faith in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. Without these two elements (repentance and faith), there is no hope of salvation. Is this unfair? In my mind, no. Christianity is the only faith which has an open invitation to all who recognize their sinfulness and hopelessness and realize their own efforts will never be good enough. This takes the pressure off of my performance and allows me to rest in the already accomplished work of Jesus Christ, who purchased my sin with His own blood so that I could be set free. Now that’s not fair, but it’s grace.

Dear God, I rest in the grace of God and have ended my quest to find righteousness on my own. Thank You for sending Jesus that I may receive salvation through His payment for my sin.

Having made the gospel of Jesus Christ the focus of his writing to the Roman Christians, Paul has centered on the fact that all are sinners condemned to die (1:18-3:20), all can be declared righteous through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (3:21-5:21), and all who have believed will be changed through the power of the Holy Spirit (6:1-8:39). Respectively, we have labeled these things as condemnation, justification, and sanctification. In Romans 9, Paul begins to further uncover the work of God in salvation as he exposes God’s dealings with the nation of Israel. The children of Israel were God’s chosen people whom He used to bring about Jesus Christ and provide salvation to the entire world (Jews and Gentiles); however, the Jews became hardened toward Jesus and ultimately put Him to death. As the Jews began to reject God’s plan for salvation, the Gentiles began embracing it. This sudden “favor” on the Gentiles caused the Jews to wonder if God had abandoned His people, Israel. So, Paul explained that God is sovereign in the work of salvation and concludes that “He has mercy on whom He wills, and whom He wills He hardens” (9:18). Hardens does not mean that God hardens the heart, but that God allows that man to seek his own lustful desires without divine intervention.

In response to Paul’s teaching, some may arrogantly ask how God can blame the individual when they have no choice in the matter (9:19); in other words, some would claim that God cannot hold an individual guilty who supposedly has no control over his sinful nature. Paul answers this possible objection by writing, “But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why have you made me like this?’ Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?” (9:20-21) Since God is the creator (potter) of man (clay), He has every right to do as He purposes and man has no right to question His sovereignty. Paul then provides three possibilities for God allowing sin to come into the world: to show His wrath (9:22a), to make His power known (9:22b), and to demonstrate his mercy (9:23-24).

In case his readers thought that Israel’s disobedience was outside God’s purposes, Paul quickly reminded them of the words of the prophet Hosea (9:25-26; Hosea 1:9-10, 2:23) and Isaiah (9:27-29; Isaiah 10:22-23, 1:9). Through these prophets, God foretold Israel’s disobedience and that the Gentiles would be included in God’s redemptive plan; however, this did not mean that God would completely turn His back on Israel (9:27).

Paul brought closure to this issue of God’s sovereignty in salvation by revealing the real reason that Israel was receiving God’s judgment (9:30-33). The Gentiles had embraced righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, while the Jews clung to righteousness through the law (9:30-31). The Jews failed to see the impossibility of obeying the law perfectly. Their knowledge of the law should have exposed their inability to keep it and motivated them to seek righteousness through God’s Son, Jesus. Quoting from Isaiah 8:14 and 28:16, Paul declared that the Jews “stumbled at the stumbling block” (9:32). The stumbling block was Jesus Christ, whom the Jews rejected as Savior, and they would not be saved until they admitted their sin and turned in faith to Him. So, being the recipient of divine judgment is not God’s doing, but the reality of a man refusing to believe in the gospel (Christ died to pay for sin). Therefore, we can conclude that, yes, God is sovereign in the work of salvation; however, man is responsible for his reaction to revealed truth. The offer of mercy and forgiveness is available to all, but only bestowed upon those who repent of sin and seek righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ.

Dear God, help us to accept the fact that we will not always understand Your ways and may we trust that You know best. However, make us aware of our sinfulness before You that we might respond to the mercy and forgiveness offered to all through faith in Your Son, Jesus.

Paul has been writing this letter to the Christians in Rome in order to provide a better comprehension of their salvation by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ. First, Paul described that all people are under God’s condemnation for their unrighteousness and they are deserving of eternal death and separation from God in the lake of fire (1:18-3:20). Secondly, Paul taught about the hope every man has in being justified (declared righteous) before God, apart from human effort, through faith in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ (3:21-5:21). Jesus Christ provided the righteousness needed by man in order to receive forgiveness from God and all those who will accept Jesus’ payment for sin will be saved from condemnation. Lastly, Paul taught the Roman Christians about the process of sanctification which followed being justified (6:1-8:39). Being sanctified is the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer to guide him in following the ways of God. Romans 8 details many of the works of the Spirit in the life of a believer such as freeing the sinner from sin and death (8:1-3), empowering him to obey God’s moral law (8:4), helping him live according to God’s ways (8:5-13) and adopting him as a child of God (8:14-17).

After writing about condemnation, justification, and sanctification Paul will now illustrate the sovereignty of God in salvation. Throughout the next several chapters, Paul will point to the work of the gospel in the nation of Israel, who were God’s chosen people. Paul begins by expressing to his readers that he is sorrowful in his heart because although the Jewish people had received God’s promises and blessings (9:1-5), they had rejected Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah who brought salvation to the world. Instead of viewing Jesus as their Savior from sin, they put Him to death on a cross. Many in Israel thought that their nationality automatically gained them favor with God, but Paul reminded them that “they are not all Israel who are of Israel” (9:6). He meant that all descendants of Abraham (physically) were not necessarily also the children of God spiritually (see also Romans 2:28-29). The nation of Israel should have seen themselves under condemnation for sin and this realization should have caused them to seek justification through Jesus Christ so that they could be sanctified. Again, Paul had already emphasized that forgiveness of sin and righteousness could only come through faith in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, not by obedience to the law of Moses as many Jews believed. Some of Paul’s readers may have been concerned about his teaching, but he was getting ready to emphasize to them that Israel’s rejection of Jesus Christ was not outside of God’s sovereignty; in fact, Israel’s rejection of Jesus was a part of God’s purpose (9:6a).

Paul carefully illustrated God’s sovereignty by reminding his Roman readers of three instances in the Old Testament: Isaac and Ishmael (9:7b-9), Jacob and Esau (9:10-13), and the nation of Israel and Pharaoh (9:14-18). In the case of Isaac and Ishmael, Paul was evidencing that God had made a willing choice between these two physical sons of Abraham when He established the spiritual line of promise (Genesis 12:1-3; Galatians 3:8). Although Ishmael was a son of Abraham, God chose Isaac’s descendants to be the ones who would inherit the promises of God (Genesis 17:19-21).

The second illustration of God’s sovereignty used by Paul was the story of Jacob and Esau who were the twin sons of Isaac and Rebecca (9:10). Referring to this situation, Paul writes, “for the children not yet being born, nor having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works but of Him who calls), it was said to her, ‘The older shall serve the younger.’ As it is written, ‘Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated’” (9:11-13; see also Malachi 1:2-3). The promise made to Abraham and carried to Issac was then passed to Jacob even before he was born. God’s sovereignty in this situation was based on His own will and purpose, not on any merit of Jacob or Esau (9:11). Some people are confused by this teaching wondering how God could choose one over the other without any consideration of their works; however, I believe we must remember that God’s purposes are not always understood. We must not be so consumed with wondering why would God and instead realize that He sees everything from a divine perspective. God did not intend for all of His ways to be comprehended by man. Again, Paul anticipates that some of his readers still may not fully grasp God’s sovereignty in salvation, so he writes, “What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? Certainly not! For He says to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whomever I will have compassion.’ So then it is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy” (9:14-16).

The final illustration Paul uses in order to demonstrate God’s sovereignty in all things is the contrast between the nation of Israel and Pharaoh. Israel was shown God’s mercy, while Pharaoh was punished for holding Israel captive. Quoting from Exodus 9:16, Paul refers to God’s purpose behind showing mercy to Israel and judging Pharaoh: ” For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth. Therefore He has mercy on whom He wills, and whom He wills He hardens” (9:17-18).

Although it is a complicated concept to decipher, God is truly sovereign in the work of salvation. All believers wrestle with the fact that there are some people who are made righteous through faith in Jesus Christ, while others will never receive His mercy. I do not think Paul was trying to give all the answers in his writing, but he was careful to make his readers aware that God’s purposes will always be accomplished. Do not be frustrated by those things which God did not intend for us to understand, but instead trust that He knows best.

Dear God, help me to trust that You know best, even when I do not understand.