By Robert E. Jackson, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
Mercy
Romans 11:17–32
Be Humble (17–21)
Paul gives an awesome picture of God’s working, utilizing horticulture as an illustration. Once an olive tree lost its vigor, one solution was to cut off the unproductive branches and graft in some wild olive shoots. Israel, as God’s sovereignly chosen people, failed to produce fruit when they refused to come to Jesus in humble faith. Therefore, like an old olive tree, Jewish “branches” were broken off while “wild branches,” representing the Gentiles, were grafted in their place.
Obviously, some of the Gentiles were impressed with their new position leading them to exult over Israel. The word “boast” (v. 18) is the same word used when a gladiator boasted over his defeated foe. Believers must not be like a gladiator. Instead, Christians must rejoice in God’s mercy with humility.
Think about it — Gentiles, in their own power, are impotent in grafting themselves in; it is solely an act of God’s grace. Thus, the Gentiles must not think they are “superior” to the Jews but instead realize God reached out to them in undeserved favor. Paul cautions Gentiles not to take this position lightly. Since God cut off some of the natural branches, He will not hesitate to cut off wild branches as well. In other words, no room exists for complacency in the Christian faith. Salvation should never be taken for granted; it is wholly dependent upon God and His grace. Christians have no room to be arrogant towards unbelievers.
Be Thankful (22–24)
Paul highlights both the kindness and severity of God. These contrasting attitudes are fascinating and held simultaneously. People who reject Him in unbelief, represented by the branches cut off, can only look forward to His wrathful judgment.
On the other hand, believers who continually respond in faith will see the goodness of the Lord as their portion. Believers must be ever thankful for salvation and never presume on God’s grace.
When I was a child, I received the MMR vaccines (measles, mumps and rubella), which are supposed to protect me for life. Salvation is not a single event like those inoculations.
True, His kindness/salvation began with a single moment when you responded in faith to Christ. However, those people who truly believe continually walk in a relationship with God and will not be cut off. Furthermore, in the miracle of grace, Jews can be grafted in again by believing and continuing to believe. We need to rejoice in our salvation and realize that God’s mercy remains open to anyone who will repent and believe.
Be Aware (25–32)
Until now, Paul talks about the “remnant” of Israel who will be saved and then moves on to address the fate of the entire nation. Currently, Israel is experiencing a hardening of their hearts until the time of the Gentiles is complete. Paul, however, says God is not through with Israel. The “fullness” of the Gentiles (v. 25) may reference the number that are to be saved or the fulfillment of the Gentile contribution to the Kingdom.
Regardless of the meaning, Paul says after the Gentile period “all Israel will be saved” (v. 26). There are seemingly more interpretations of this verse than opinions at a Baptist business meeting. In my understanding and in my hope, a day is coming when a glorious awakening will sweep Israel, resulting in multitudes of Jews coming to faith. Regardless of the interpretation, God uses the current hardening of the Jews as an opportunity for the evangelization of Gentiles, and as a Gentile, I say amen.
The time of the Gentiles, conversely, will lead to the restoration of the Jews. God is working in all things to bring about His eternal purposes. Paul wants all Christians to be aware of His mercy. He is bestowing mercy upon Gentiles, and He will show mercy to Israel. The gospel continues to be offered to all people, and God extends grace to all people who place their faith in His Son.
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