Romans 11: The Future of Israel
FOR CENTURIES THE people of Israel awaited their Messiah. But when he came, very few believed in him. This situation has persisted to the point where Christianity is now considered a Gentile religion. What happened to God's promises and plans for Israel? Has God rejected his people? In this chapter Paul answers these questions.
Warming Up to God
We all have expectations of how God will work in our lives that come out of our desires rather than God's. In what way do you feel that God has failed to follow your plan? Express to God any feelings of disappointment or discouragement you might have.
Read Romans 11. »
Discovering the Word
- How does Paul know that God has not rejected his people (vv. 1-6)?
- What were the spiritual consequences for those Israelites who rejected Jesus Christ (vv. 7-10)?
- Why are these consequences inevitable for anyone who persistently rejects the gospel?
- Why is Paul convinced that even greater blessings will come from Israel's acceptance of Christ (vv. 11-16)?
- Why should Paul's illustration of the olive tree prevent Gentiles from feeling superior to unbelieving Israelites (vv. 17-24)?
- In this chapter Paul has argued that Israel's unbelief is partial (vv. 1-10), purposeful (vv. 11-16) and temporary (vv. 25-32). How does this make him feel about God (vv. 33-36)?
Applying the Word
- Why is it foolish for Christians today to feel superior to non-Christians?
- How can Paul's description of God in verses 33-36 also encourage us to trust and praise him?
Responding in Prayer
Thank God that his plans are greater than anything we can conceive.
For Further Study
Romans Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture Edited by Gerald L. Bray