Romans 9:19-33 Sovereignty of God
Romans 9:19-26 God’s sovereignty over Gentiles
Paul writes the place of the Gentiles in the overall redemption plan of God. God has called many from the gentiles to show his mercy. They became the objects of God’s mercy. Here the most important theological concept is explained by Paul. The Jews and Gentiles are equal. God has honorable vessels both from the Jews and the Gentiles. It is amazing to understand the inclusive theology of Paul. God has called the gentiles his own people. Matthew has begun his Gospel from the exclusive aspect to inclusive towards the completion of the Gospel. God has exalted many saints around the world who believed in Jesus Christ. There are numerous saints in history who had established great work for the Lord. This particular passage gives enormous scope for the mission work and to understand the impartiality of God to the Jews and Gentiles alike. The call of God is equal to Jews and Gentiles. This message was communicated by Paul all throughout the Epistle of Romans under several theme-based approaches.
Romans 9:27-29 God’s sovereignty over Israel
Paul quotes the Prophet Isaiah on the placement of the Israelites in the history of the Kingdom of God (Isaiah 29:16, 45:9). Paul remembers the promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that the descendants of the patriarchs would be like the sand by the sea. But, now the attitude of the Jews towards salvation available in Christ, and their rejection of the gospel show that they would be numbered in the Kingdom of God. He further goes to the comparison of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah with the unbelieving descendants of Abraham. The lineage of Abraham is becoming outcast because of their stiff-necked attitude. Paul was much worried about his own race and people who have not accepted Christ. Remember at the beginning of this chapter, Paul expressed that he would like to be cursed along with his brethren. That shows his agony about the loss of the promised children of Abraham.
Romans 9:30-33 Faith and Works
Now Paul turned to the evaluations of the Jews and the Gentiles. Gentiles who were away from the promises, who never pursued righteousness have obtained the forgiveness of God through the blood of Jesus Christ. They have been exalted to that great position. But the Jews who were after the righteousness had lost the glory of God, and privileges are given to them. Now, Paul emphasizes the importance of Faith over the works. Jews are after the works of righteousness but Gentiles are after the grace of God through faith. The Jews stumbled over the stumbling stone. So, Paul quotes from Isaiah 8:14, 28:16 to refer to the stumbling stone, Jesus Christ. He also refers to the same verse which has given the scope of glorious life available in Christ for those who trust in Him.
Discussion:
1. What is your experience in the Kingdom of God as a follower of Christ?
2. Discuss the similarities and differences between Jews and Gentiles.
3. How do you sustain your life in Christ?
(For further studies on Romans, please refer to this cite)
