Romans 9:30—10:21: Misguided Zeal
THE WORLD IS full of religious people: Jews, Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and many others. Islam alone has over 800 million adherents. Many of these people are zealous, dedicated and sincere. But are zeal and sincerity enough? Are there many paths to God, or just one? In this passage Paul continues to wrestle with the problem of Israel's unbelief. He now focuses on Israel's and on our own responsibility to believe the gospel.
Warming Up to God
Have you ever known a sincere and devout non-Christian? How did you respond to his or her zeal?
Read Romans 9:30—10:21 »
Discovering the Word
- Why was Jesus Christ more of a stumbling stone to the Jews than to the Gentiles (9:30-33)?
- Many people believe religious zeal and sincerity are all a person needs to be saved. How would Paul respond to this belief (10:1-4)? 3. How do verses 6-8 stress the simplicity of righteousness by faith?
- First-century Christians publicly confessed that "Jesus is Lord" at their baptism. Why is public confession important in addition to the belief in one's heart (vv. 9-13)?
- William Carey, the father of modern missions, once proposed to a group of ministers that they discuss the implications of the Great Commission. Dr. John C. Ryland retorted: "Young man, sit down. When God pleases to convert the heathen, he will do it without your aid or mine!" How does Dr. Ryland's understanding of God's sovereignty mesh with verses 14-15?
Applying the Word
- Realizing the implications of verses such as Romans 10:14-15, William Carey responded to God's call and went to India. Where do you feel called to go with the gospel?
- What steps can you take (or have you taken) to be obedient to that call?
Responding in Prayer
Israel's unbelief did not stop Paul from praying for them (10:1). Spend time praying for those with whom you have the opportunity of sharing the gospel.
For Further Study
The Message of Romans by John Stott