An Exposition of
Romans Chapter Eleven
by Tony Warren

 

INTRODUCTION

    The book of Romans is considered by many to be one of the most profound, and yet simply stated writings of the entire Bible. But over the years, chapter eleven has become one of the most controversial epistles of scripture. This due in no small part to Israel's future status being widely misinterpreted in light of the passages there. Indeed the very first verse is a capsulation of why there is so much confusion concerning the fulfillment of the promises made to Israel. Paul rhetorically asks, 'Has God cast away His people?' In other words, he is anticipating this objection because in the previous two chapters he has been elucidating how Israel is obstinate and thus has tripped upon Christ, the stumbling stone. It is a reasonable expectation that many hearing these things would conclude that because Israel has rejected their Messiah, and that this must mean that the promises which were made to Israel, have been abrogated or annulled. And Paul's reply is an unequivocal [me ginomai], or 'forbidden to come to be.' God Forbid this is so. The promises to Israel will be kept.

In chapters nine and ten paul addressed the promise of God, the rebellion of the nation Israel, and Israel's fall. And so in order to have a more complete understanding of chapter eleven, it is helpful to first carefully read chapters nine and ten. They are the introduction to this topic which allows us to understand all these things in their proper context. If we are honest with ourselves, we cannot help but see that in these three chapters, God unambiguously declares that the Gentile believers are on an equal footing with the Jews, and that any Jews who are in unbelief, are on an equal footing with the unbelieving Gentiles. Indeed, how could it be any plainer than what God declares in Romans 10:12. 'For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.' The problem some people have in understanding these truths, is that they remove these statements from their context. In fact, they are often treated 'as if' they have no real significance in our understanding of the body of Jews and Gentiles with relationship to the Covenant with God. It's as if some people are attempting to 'force' God to make a difference, even when He has declared that there is no difference with relationship to His Covenant plan. For He is rich over all that call upon Him, of any people. What could be said more concisely, and yet so explicitly clear as the declarations in these three chapters which address Israel and what constitutes the fulfillment of the promises which God has made. Clearly these Covenant promises were to all who believe and call on Him, irrespective of ethnicity, genealogy, or national origin.

We will see that the nature of this chapter is one of answering the fundamental questions arising from the rejection of the Messiah by the Jews. It addresses how, because of this, some might think that the promises to Israel have become null or been voided by their disobedience. Paul says no, the promises are not abrogated. He illustrates how this rebellion of Israel is not universal, and how there is a 'remnant Israel' in which the promises are to be fulfilled. He shows how God made known that the fall of Israel is a confirmation of old testament scriptures concerning the promises, not a voiding of them.

Dispersed throughout this chapter is God's reiteration that justification before Him is all of grace through faith in the righteousness of Christ, and is without distinction by nationality. The chapter concludes with an encouragement that even though the judgment on the nation of Israel persists, there is a remnant Israel, and the Jewish people can take heart that they can be grafted back in. Likewise, a warning is included to the Gentiles, that in light of what has happened to national Israel, they should be cautious not to have a boastful heart in vain pride and unbelief. Because in like fashion as Israel, we too can be branches cast off from Covenant Israel.

Many teachers over the years have used this chapter to argue for a 'future' restoration or redemption for all of the nation of Israel. Even though there is clearly only one time in history when Christ redeemed and restored Israel, (His death and resurrection, which occurred over 2000 years ago), many have come to the conclusion that there is a future redeeming of the nation of Israel by Christ. But God's Word is clear that the Lamb of God that redeemed Israel (not will redeem), was Christ. And the Holy Temple which was rebuilt after three days, was Christ. Again, it was built again, not will be built again.

Other Theologians argue that the term 'Israel' in this chapter always refers to the nation, some argue that it refers to the Elect of Israel, and still others argue that it refers to the Church both jews and Gentiles. But we would contend that it is impossible (in light of this chapter) that any of these views are correct. For depending upon context, clearly Israel refers to the elect ethnic Israelites, the nation, or Jew and Gentile together. Which it refers to is governed by the immediate context. We see an example of this when God said that, 'they are not all Israel, which are of Israel -Rom. 9:6.' Is this Israel the nation or an Israel within the nation? We would have to conclude 'both.' God is clearly saying there that one Israel, is not Israel. We see here that God refers to Israel the nation, and says that it is not the 'Israel of God.' Two Israels, one Elect Israel. So then, we have to define what Israel is, in the light of the scriptures, not in the darkness of Theological Presuppositions.

In this study we will attempt to address these questions and understand the scriptures in a clear, well ordered, and hermeneuticly sound fashion. We will examine this epistle verse by verse, in the light of the pertinent scriptures so that we not only get a general doctrinal overview, but a view in it's proper context. We believe that doing a verse by verse study allows Christians to see more clearly the continuity of scripture, and we usually touch on all the basic particulars of what God is addressing.

We will see in this study that God is explaining that the Fall of the major portion of the children of Israel was because of their unbelief, and that this fall does not preclude Israel (the remnant) from fulfilling the Promises. Nor does this remnant Israel make His promise to Israel void! Indeed, we will see that it fulfills the promise. Shall the Gentiles in arrogance and pride then boast because the Jews lie in unbelief? No, they are a remnant themselves. Only a small portion of the world are professing Christians, and only a small portion of those are 'truly' Saved. Moreover, the Church today can also fall away (2nd Thessalonians 2) as judgment of God just as Israel did. We all have feet of clay, and we all have stood on the very same ground. To the Jew first, and then the Gentile.

Let us pray that in this study of God's Word, He may grant us the knowledge of His revealed truth, and the wisdom to know the difference between false teachings which are inconsistent with the Word at every turn, and sound scriptural testimonies which are in agreement with the 'whole' of the Bible. Our prayer is that we come to understand and accept what is 'His' truth, rather than our own. We pray that we will not either willfully, unknowingly, nor by neglect, ignore or trample under foot one word of His Holy testimony. And we pray for an open minded to scripture and an understanding which He alone can give. And by Grace He gives this through His Holy Spirit, by our 'careful' study of His Holy Word.

AMEN!

 
 

Romans Chapter 11

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VERSE ONE

• "I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin".

    Paul says, 'I say then' [oun], meaning accordingly or consequently. This because in chapters nine and ten, he had many things to say which are disturbing about the nation of Israel, the Jews obstinacy and standing with God, and their disobedience. The phrase, I say 'then' or subsequently, is in reference to these preceding chapters where Paul was explaining how God called not only the Jews, but also the Gentiles (9:24), and how these who were not His people, are now called His people, and how Isaiah also cried concerning Israel, that though their number be as the sand of the sea, yet only a 'remnant' should be Saved (9:27). He spake of how the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, has attained righteousness, but how that Israel, which followed after the law, has not attained to righteousness (9:30-31). And in chapter 10 he continued in the same vein explaining how his prayer was that Israel might be Saved, but how they are ignorant of the righteousness of Christ (10:1-4), and how there is 'no difference' between the Jew and the Greek (10:12). He writes how whosoever should call upon the name of God will be Saved, regardless. Chapter ten concludes with Isaiah's prophesy which spoke of this, saying, 'I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me, but to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth My hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people (10:20-21).' In other words, God is a light found of the Gentiles, while Israel, having been judged of God, lies in darkness.

After addressing Israel's fall in chapters nine and ten, Paul turns to the subject of what this means with regards to the promise made. It is in this context that the rhetorical question is asked, 'so consequently, has God cast off His people?' And Paul answers clearly, 'No, God hasn't cast off all Israel, because he himself is an Israelite and God hasn't cast him off.' Paul gets right down to his very tribe declaring that he is of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. The Hebrew word Benjamin [binyamiyn] means, "son of the right hand." The families of God in Christ, are sons of the right hand.

Deuteronomy 33:12

• "And of Benjamin he said, The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by him; and the LORD shall cover him all the day long, and he shall dwell between his shoulders."

The beloved of the lord dwell in safety by Him because Christ dwells with him. It is in Christ, the true Son of the right hand, that the promises to the Children of God are fulfilled. The right hand is the favored one! Just as today, most people are right-handed, or favor their right hand. We are the sons of favor, through Christ. By Paul mentioning He is of the tribe of Benjamin, He is proving that he is one of the people of Israel, the Chosen ones, and yet he is not cast off. Therefore, this proves that the promise is not abrogated. This is an important declaration, because it is declaring that the promise is sure and Israel is being Saved in this remnant, of which he himself is one. His words here cannot in any way be construed as saying that later, more than a remnant will be Saved. On the contrary, he has used himself as 'an example that the promise is being kept' right then and there in Jews like himself. If we ascribe anything more than this to the text, we are reading it 'into' the passage, rather than reading it 'from' the passage.

Has God cast off His people? His reply is [me ginomai], literally 'forbidden come to be.' God forbid this is true! The Romans, and indeed all of us, are not to misunderstand Election, but realize that the Elect or chosen people of God to which the promise was made, have always been a remnant. As in Romans 9, corporate Israel which God says is 'not Israel,' and the Elect Israel which is.

The message here is that indeed Israel has come under judgment (branches broken off), but that this Israel in blindness is not the Israel to which the everlasting Promises were made (as Paul says he is living proof of that, being an Israelite, and not being blinded). God is not Saving Israel through 'favored nation status' but rather through 'favored people status' or particular redemption. Paul declares he is an Israelite, which means the promise was not abrogated because part of Israel was blinded. One Israel was blinded, but the Election is in the favored son. A remnant Israel, showing that there is an Election of Grace, not of Race, and that this has always been God's plan for Israel's future.

This first verse is illustrating that the part of Israel which is spoken of in this chapter as having been cut off, are those of Israel who have rejected Christ. And the part of Israel which has not rejected Christ (of which Paul declares he is one) are the Elect of Israel who are not cast off, and to whom the promises pertain, and which do not lie in unbelief. Paul says God forbid He has cast away his people, for he also is an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. That also is reiterated clearly in the verses which follow.

VERSE TWO

• "God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,

Note the stipulation of, 'His people which He foreknew.' These are the people who God has not cast away. Not the whole nation, but a remnant Chosen by Grace being foreknown of God, and then predestinated unto Salvation. These words are not used carelessly, they are inspired to illustrate that God's People are those whom He foreknew, Elected before the foundation of the world. Clearly not an Elect nation of Israel, but an Elect people of Israel.

Matthew 1:21

• "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for He shall Save His people from their sins".

Romans 8:29

• "For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren".

These are those who Romans 11:2 says are 'His people' which He 'foreknew.' And them He foreknew, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of Christ. By any man's definition that excludes the whole nation of Israel, as many were unsaved and under the wrath of God. And so as Paul writes, 'No, God has not cast away his people He foreknew.' On the contrary, His people were Saved by Christ's work on the cross, and they are the Election of Israel. Theologians today make the mistake of treating all the nation Israel as 'His People' eternally, when they were His people corporately or covenantally, not eternally. This can easily be proven as we read that many died in the wilderness because of unbelief, or as Jesus Himself told the members of the Congregation that they wouldn't escape the damnation of hell. If they were all eternally His people as a nation, they would not have died in unbelief, they would have been Saved. i.e., they were covenantally His people, and they were branches broken off from that Covenant with Israel. When God went to the cross, He went there to Save the people whom He foreknew, those who were eternally His people, Elect from the foundation of the world (Matthew 1:21). And unless Christ died in vain for some of them, then the people He came to Save cannot biblically nor logically mean the whole nation of Israel.

If Israel's rejection of the gospel was both consistent with God's eternal plan, and Israel's own choosing (Romans 9), then of necessity this means that God never intended for all the nation of Israel to be Saved. For they lie in unbelief. His plan all along was for a remnant according to the Election of Grace. Israel was restored in the New Covenant body of Christ. It is not, and indeed can never be restored in the Old Covenant types and shadows of Temple building, which is passed away. There is no possibility of a restoration of an old Covenant style Israel. He has made a New Covenant with Israel, and thus the Old was passed away (Hebrews 8:13). If this be the New Covenant Church, the New Covenant has come, not will come. And the promise is kept.

And to give us an illustration of this, God in this verse two makes the analogy between what has occurred in Israel, and what happened in the days of Elijah. It's as if God is saying, remember what the scriptures declared of Elijah and how he made intercession to God, pleading with Him about Israel, saying:

VERSE THREE

• "Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life.

In other words, Elijah in his finite mind didn't understand the big picture. All he could see was that, in his knowledge, all the prophets were killed and evil had destroyed all the altars of God. He had thought that there were no believers left in Israel but himself, and these wicked men were out seeking to kill him also. In his thinking, he was the last true believer left, and the killing of him would mean there would be no men of God left. And then what of the promises God had made concerning Israel? We can readily understand his distress. But like so many Theologians in our day, he could not look at the big picture, and so came to wrong conclusions based on his 'assumptions.' Was God out to destroy all of Israel, or was Elijah's belief of who was Israel, flawed? Indeed, God had more knowledge than Elijah did of who the true Israelites were, even though Elijah didn't understand.

This third verse is illustrating the error of Elijah in thinking that the evil people had killed all God's prophets, and digged down His altars, and that he alone was left. God has a plan, and that plan is often a mystery to us. Nevertheless, the promise to the fathers stands sure, even though Elijah didn't understand how that could be given his circumstances.

VERSE FOUR

• "But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal".

We see Elijah didn't have the knowledge to understand what was really going on, and so what he had surmised was based on his suppositions. Thus his conclusions were in error. God answered him and told him not only did the Lord reserve a remnant as His people, but that He had 7000 of them. Seven times one thousand, who have not bowed to worship Satan. Note also it is God who has reserved these men unto Himself. He made sure He had set aside for Himself a people, no matter what Satan and his minions were doing. And it has nothing to do with Saving the whole nation, nor Elijah's understanding of truth. There was no possibility that these worshipers at the image of baal could have thwarted God's plan of Salvation for His people Israel which He had reserved. For God never abrogates His promises to Israel. Not a whole physical nation, but a chosen people. Had He cast off His people Israel? No, quite obviously, the promise of Israel always being before Him, were not made to the majority, but to the 7000 who were 'truly' His People Israel. The people He reserved or predetermined would be brought unto Himself.

We cannot miss the point here, which is that Israel was in apostasy, and God had no intention of Saving the whole nation, and yet God remains faithful to the believing remnant. They (not the whole) were the true Israel of God. This unmistakable, undeniable analogy by God that there was still a remnant Israel of God even though Elijah didn't understand this, is equated by God to Israel's then present condition. And though it may be small, the part which is the Election, He has reserved unto himself, and it is the Israel of the promise. The number 7000 'signifies' completeness or totality. In these verses God is using Elijah as an example of what is taking place with Israel in Paul's day. Just as Elijah was looking for a great Salvation and was disappointed with what He saw in his day as the destruction of Israel, so Paul is saying, likewise, the Salvation of Israel isn't as the Jews think, but as God provides.

This verse four is illustrating that Elijah did not understood that God's plan called for a remnant chosen and reserved unto God by Grace. They were not called by Elijah's understanding, but by God's. They were not called by great numbers, but by God's Sovereign right to choose how many and whoever He wanted. As indeed God boldly signifies in the following verses.

VERSE FIVE

• "Even so then at this present time also there is a Remnant according to the election of grace".

[houto oun] or 'in this way, accordingly' at the present time also there is a remnant. That is not man's words, it is God equating that remnant being Saved in Elijah's day, with Israel's then present situation. That's God saying that Israel 'in part' (the remnant) are reserved unto Him an Election or Chosen people in the same way as in Elijah's day. This part, this remnant, is not the whole nation of Israel, nor was that the prophesy, and that is why His promises are not annulled. Only those of Israel who are conformed to the image of Christ are those 'counted' Israel of the promise (Romans 9:8, Galatians 4:28). And it's important to keep in mind that Paul is saying these things to address the objection of 'God casting off His people.' i.e., He is again saying no, for Israel of the promise is a remnant people, not the nation. Which is in total agreement with what we read in chapter nine that, 'not all Israel was of Israel.' In other words, not all of national Israel were of the true Israel, only this Election were. Only this remnant. When Paul says, 'even so at this present time,' he is addressing the fulfillment of the promise to Israel of an Election of Grace, rather than race.

So while many Theologians are waiting for the Salvation of a nation, they are making the same faulty assumptions, and thus coming to the same faulty conclusions which Elijah did. And these people will never come to a harmony of scripture so long as their system of hermeneutics includes ignoring the well established meaning of words, fulfilled prophecy, and most of all, the clear content and context of the scriptures themselves. God has not cast off His people now anymore than He had in Elijah's day. How then were the branches cast off? It's simple logic, as the branches cast off from the tree were not the People of Israel for whom the promise was made, and for whom Christ came to Save, but the corporate Israel outside the Israel of God. On the other hand, Paul was one of the Elect Israelites fulfilling prophecy of their deliverance and Salvation.

Acts 22:3-4

• "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.

• And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women."

Paul persecuted the Church as an enemy of God, but he was one of the Elect national Israelites for whom Christ came to Save, and so God converted him. Thus the Election is a remnant, not a nation. God says, 'Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the Election of Grace.' God has here defined the Elect not as the whole nation (as many today do), but as a remnant. The Israel blinded was Covenant Israel, not eternally Elect Israel. For they were never His people for whom He came to Save, and for whom Christ died. Israel attempted to gain Salvation by the works of the law, and it cannot be obtained that way. To this day they continue in that 'Salvation by keeping the law,' error. They never understood either Grace, the Lamb of God, nor the real Election, which that nation was merely a [skia] or shadow of.

This verse five is illustrating that as in the days of Elijah, God's people were not a whole nation but a remnant, even so then at the time of Paul's writing, there was likewise a remnant according to the election of grace.

VERSE SIX

• "And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work".

The Israel of God will be delivered by Grace, which means God's unmerited (not by heritage, nor anything else) favor. God is no respecter of persons. He will have Mercy on whomever He will have Mercy, and He will have compassion on whomever He will have compassion, not based on where one lives, his good works, what nationality he is, his blood line, or religious tradition. He will Save whomever He wants, according to what is His own purposes. Their national origin or their tribe doesn't give them favor with God, only their being in Christ, the Son of the Right hand does that. And the verse above illustrates this. Grace defined is the opposite of works. So if it's Grace, it cannot be works, it's God doing it all while man contributes nothing by his efforts. Else it is no more Grace, but works.

2nd Timothy 1:9

• "Who hath Saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,"

These are those whom Romans chapter 11 says are foreknown and Reserved. These are His people for whom He came to Save! These are the Election. Particular individuals foreknown and chosen of God. Salvation has always been a personal relationship with God, not a national relationship. National Israel had a corporate Covenantal relationship, which is totally different. Israel being blinded wherein many died (and are dying) in their sins (to this day) is living proof that this Covenantal relationship was not Salvation. Sadly, many theologians today give lip service to this truth, but in practice make themselves oblivious to it. Has God for over 2000 years been condemning millions upon millions of Jewish people to damnation in their blatant unbelief, only to Save a relatively small number in the last days? Is this man's idea of God's love for Israel the nation? It doesn't seem to even make sense logically, much less Biblically. For when we consider all these things God says, we are struck with the truth that Israel is being Saved now, and the Holy Temple of God is being rebuilt now, and the Elect is beloved Now. Not in a physical nation, but in a Holy nation. Not in a city in the middle east, but in a people whose citizenship is from above. And verse seven sheds more light on this very truth:

This verse six is illustrating we all stand by Grace not race. And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. We all stand because God upholds us.

VERSE SEVEN

• "What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded."

The rest of whom? ..the rest of Israel, of course. Here we have God contrasting national Israel, versus the Election Israel. In other words, the nation Israel verses the Chosen of Israel. It is the Chosen or Elect who hath obtained it (which of course once again blows out of the water those who claim the whole nation of Israel was the Chosen or elect spoken of attaining it). The Israel that hath obtained it is the remnant, just as the preceding verses illustrated with the analogy of Elijah. What "plausible scriptural" argument could anyone possibly have to make this untrue? Paul is telling us the Election Israel has obtained the promise made to Israel, and the rest of Israel are blinded.

The nation of Israel has not attained the Messiah they sought after, because they sought Him on their own terms. They sought him by law, not understanding that no one can get to God by the law. Their own works of the law could not bring them near to God, and that is the knowledge that Israel lacked. This is what we read in Romans chapter ten.

Romans 10:1-4

• "Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be Saved.

• For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

• For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

• For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth".

Israel to this day goes about trying to establish their own righteousness with a good works gospel, not having knowledge that it is only through the righteousness of the deliverer Christ, that man can come near to God. By the law shall no flesh be justified, thus national Israel in rejecting Christ, has not obtained that they seek after, but the Election (those of Israel who are Chosen of God) hath obtained it, and the rest come under judgment of God. They are blinded because of their unbelief. Salvation is not to a whole nation, but to a remnant Chosen by Grace.

This verse seven illustrates that the election hath obtained the promise, and the rest were blinded, which is the judgment of God for their obstinate hearts.

VERSE EIGHT

• "(According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.

In verse eight we read the reiteration that what has happened to Israel is not something which was unforeseen, but this blindness was that which was prophesied in the scriptures before.

Isaiah 29:10

• "For the LORD hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep, and hath closed your eyes: the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath he covered".

Isaiah 6:9-10

• "And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.

• Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed".

As Romans chapter 10 declared, they being ignorant of God's righteousness, went about to establish their own righteousness. Their eyes being shut is a synonym for them being blind or unable to see. This is the judgment of God in the blindness that has happened to Israel. A fulfillment of what was written before in Isaiah. Judgment upon Israel for her wickedness, and yet compassion upon a remnant, the Election out of Israel who found mercy in the Grace of God. Jesus also spoke of the fulfilling of these prophesies of Isaiah:

Matthew 13:13-16

• "Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

• And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:

• For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

• But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear".

'But these' see, Jesus says. And these who see are His people, these who are reserved unto Him, these are those foreknown to Him, these are the Election Israel. The Election can see because God gave them spiritual eyes to see, while the other part of Israel is blinded. To one Israel the Word of God is as cool living waters to the soul that it never thirst again, and to the other Israel the Word is as a two edged sword which cuts both coming and going.

This verse eight is referencing the prophesy that was written concerning Israel's judgment, and indicating it is fulfilled just as the prophet declared. David also spoke of this judgment upon corporate or national Israel.

VERSE NINE

• "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:"

Again, this verse is reiterating that the judgment upon Israel is that which was prophesied before. This verse in Romans is taken from the Messianic Psalms of David, which foreshadowed Israel's rejection of Christ.

Psalms 69:21-23

• "They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

• Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap.

Their table, and that which should have been for their welfare, is Christ. He is now become Israel's stumbling stone, a trap instead of the table full of that which is the bread of life. These are symbolisms which illustrate the taking away of the table of bounty.

John 6:51-52

• "I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

• The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat?"

John 6:66-67

• "From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

• Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?"

This is the table that God prepared for them for their welfare or good, and from which they walked away, and rejected. Therefore is the Kingdom of God taken from them as judgment, and that which was for their good, has become their judgment as david prophesied.

Matthew 21:42-44

• "Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?

• Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.

• And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder."

Given to a Holy nation, not a kingdom from earth, but one where their citizenship is in heaven. This is the nation which will bring forth fruit. Christ, who was for their good, has become a judgment to them. Instead of their foundation in the Temple building, He has become a stone of stumbling,

This is what this verse nine is illustrating. The fulfillment of the Messianic Psalms, "As David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence (payback) unto them:" The Kingdom is taken from them and given to those who bring forth fruit. For bread they now have famine. Their table is empty. The Word of God is not that which is life to them as their ears are dull of hearing.

VERSE TEN

• "Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway."

Again, here we see the continuation of the Messianic Psalms chapter 69, where David's speaking foreshadowed Israel's blindness in judgment for their rejection of the Christ.

Psalms 69:23-24

• Let their eyes be darkened, that they see not; and make their loins continually to shake.

• Pour out thine indignation upon them, and let thy wrathful anger take hold of them."

And so it is unto this day, the judgment of God upon Israel for their rejection of righteousness stands. Israel in part is blinded, or their eyes have been darkened or made dim that they cannot see. This is the whole tenor of this chapter about Israel. As per the Prophecy, Israel is taken in the trap, and their eyes have become darkened that they have no spiritual sight. Their loins shake because they have heavy burdens which they cannot carry without the stability in Christ, and they have no covering for their sins. This is the spiritual picture illustrated here. Their Messiah had come and they knew not the hour of His visitation, therefore, He that was supposed to be the Stone for the building again of the Temple, and a good shepherd for their welfare, has become a stumbling block to them, that they have fallen. Except for the Election, the remnant chosen by Grace, they are under the indignation of God, and His wrathful anger hath taken hold of them. It is written, their habitation has become desolate that none dwell in their tabernacles (Psalms. 69:22-26).

This verse ten is illustrating that this prophecy of David has been fulfilled, and Israel has had their eyes be darkened that they cannot see, and the burdens upon them that they bow down their back, Christ not carrying the burden for them. In other words, they will always be bowed down in servitude, under burden (e.g., Isaiah 46:2) because their burdens were not taken by Christ. By contrast, the Election has had all it's heavy burdens lifted in the body of Christ.

VERSE ELEVEN

• "I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall Salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.

So, understanding all these things spoken of in the previous verses, the question then becomes, did Israel stumble at Christ that they would fall? In other words, is it the design of God that the Jews should fall for no good purpose? God being sovereign over all things, what is the good that would come out of Israel falling? And the answer is, so that Salvation can go to the ends of the world unto the Gentiles as well as to the Jews. Through Israel's fall, the Gentiles are Saved, and the Jews are provoked to jealousy, meaning to follow suit [parazeloo]. By the Jews seeing the Gospel go to the Gentiles, they might by their resentment seek out the gospel and be stimulated or provoked to emulate, or become Saved through the Word. This again much like what we saw in chapter ten.

Romans 10:19-21

• "But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.

• But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.

• But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people".

God says though Israel is an disobedient and gainsaying people under judgment, yet she is provoked to jealousy by the Gentiles, a people that were no people, a foolish nation in Israel's sight, and by them, God angers Israel, that this provocation might work repentance. And to this very day, this anger remains against Christ. If you try to preach the Christian gospel message in the nation of Israel, you are likely to be arrested. That's how deep seated this anger of Israel is. There are myriad of Jewish people who irrationally become absolutely incensed even at the mention of the name Jesus, and will go on a tirade against Christianity. This anger is deep seated and something which will not go away. For it is grounded in their blindness, and it is part of their fall as a nation. Part of the judgment of God that they 'see not, hear not, and understand not.' A small portion of Israel will be provoked to repentance through scripture, while the rest will not search the scriptures for the truth of these things. An Election or remnant chosen by Grace is all that will ever be Saved from Israel, or indeed from any other nation for that matter. We all have feet of clay, and we all stand on the very same ground. We're all just a remnant out of the larger whole.

This verse eleven is illustrating the prophesy of Deuteronomy 32:21, which we also saw illustrated in Romans 10:19. Israel has not stumbled futilely, just so that that they would fall. God forbid! But rather they have stumbled that through their fall the Gentiles also might come to Salvation in Israel. Not in Israel the nation, but Israel the Election. And by this call to the Gentiles, some of Israel also might be provoked to emulation in repentance.

VERSE TWELVE

• "Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?"

Here again, it is illustrating that through their fall, the riches (which is the wealth of God's Mercy) also goes unto the whole world. The world being made rich in the securing of their welfare or good in Christ. The Salvation and Mercy of God is called riches, because it is our wealth, the most precious thing which man can possess. Nothing we can have is of greater value. For if we possess this, our eternal welfare is secure.

Ephesians 2:4

• "But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,"

Revelation 3:18

• "I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see."

These are spiritual symbolisms of Salvation. Gold tried in the fire is Christ, the white rainment is the righteousness of Christ, the Eyesalve is Christ, it's all signifying salvation. this is the riches of God to the Gentiles.

Through the nation of Israel's diminishing as the primary home of Salvation, this riches now go unto the Gentile nations, unto the ends of the earth. And God says, if this indeed be true that it is their riches, how much more Israel's fulness? Here the word fullness [pleroma] stands opposed to their fall, the diminishing of them. In other words, if the taking away some of the nation of Israel be their diminishing, thus the riches of the gentiles, so the adding again of Israel would be Israel's filling again or un-diminishing. It's very much as a vessel having riches poured out upon the poor, and then having the poor that was made rich, then pour back to the original. This is also confirmed in the verses which follow this one. The reason blindness has happened to Israel is so the Gentiles could also receive riches. Israel is now filled by the Gentiles. It is written, Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves. This illustrates that Israel now gets the gospel from the Gentiles. Remember when Jesus stood up in the Temple and Read from Isaiah, and said this day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

Isaiah 61:1-6

• "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;

• To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;

• To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

• And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.

• And strangers shall stand and feed your flocks, and the sons of the alien shall be your plowmen and your vinedressers.

• But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD: men shall call you the Ministers of our God: ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves."

To build the Old waste places (acts 15:16) is illustrating the New Covenant with Israel which is fulfilled in Christ Jesus. To eat the riches of the Gentiles is God saying that the Jews will now receive from the Gentile Church. The riches has now gone unto them. Just as we previously read where God said the Kingdom was taken from them and given to another nation bringing forth the fruits. All these verses are God saying the same thing about Israel now having to look to the Gentile Congregation. Thus the Roman 11 phrase that Israel's fall has been the riches of the world. They now have the bread of Life.

But there are some Theologians who believe that Romans 11:12 means that the conversion of the Jews, as a nation, shall be our riches. However I think it is clear from the context that conversion of Jews is 'their' riches, and the diminishing of them is the Gentiles riches. It is speaking of how by the fall of the Jews some Gentiles are Saved, and consequently, by the witness of the Church, some Jews will obtain mercy. In romans 11:30-31 it is clearly declared, "For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy." Clearly it is speaking about Israel being made rich by us, just as we were made rich by their diminishing.

This verse twelve is illustrating that if the fall of Israel means the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them means the riches go to the Gentiles, how much more will Israel's filling (in light of this)? It is contrasting diminishing, and filling, and how diminishing one mean the filling of the other. How much more will Israel be filled if we preach the gospel to them? As before, the Gentiles had to get the gospel from the Jews, now the Jews have to get the gospel from the Gentiles. For it was to the Jew first, and then the Gentiles. And as the Jews fell, the Gentiles are to be careful lest they fall in like manner.

VERSE THIRTEEN

• "For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:"

Paul is illustrating that he is speaking to us, the Gentiles, because he is an apostle or ambassador of Christ to the Gentiles. Thus he magnifies his office. That word 'magnify' is the Greek word [doxazo], the exact same word translated glorify. Paul understands the honor or glory which God has bestowed upon Him to preach the gospel to the Gentiles, thus he speaks to us, that in doing so, some of his own kinsmen (The Jewish people) will hear and be stirred or provoked to believe. And that Gentiles should be careful to understand that they are in that same boat that Israel was in. The New Testament corporate congregation can fall, if the continue not in the faith of Christ and the authority of the Word.

This verse thirteen is illustrating that Paul recognizes his Glorious office by being appointed by God as Apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 13:46-47). He speaks to the Gentiles concerning Israel, that they may understand what was written of them, and why it happened. He is assuring them that God has not cast of Israel and that a remnant of Jews will still be Saved. He himself is proof of that. And the next verse gives again verifies this as Paul states again the reason he is saying these things:

VERSE FOURTEEN

• "If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them."

Paul being an apostle to the Gentiles speaks to them concerning Israel that they may understand, and also in hopes that 'some' of them which are his own flesh (Jews) will see his works, repent and be provoked to emulate him that more of national Israel might be Saved. You see, Paul obviously understood what many Theologians today apparently do not. That the Salvation of the Jewish people is now! He recognized that some of them would not be Saved. He doesn't preach that Israel will be Saved in a great revival later on, but that some of them might be Saved now! It's the whole tenor of this Chapter. He knows that there is a remnant to be gleaned now from Israel, and that apart from their being Saved in this Kingdom age, they won't be Saved. Those who hold that Christ is coming again to rule in Israel cannot have read chapters like Matthew 22, verses 1 to 14 at all. They preclude any future earthly rule. They tell a very different story than many dispensational theologians do. They cannot have read chapters like Luke 20 verses 9 to 18. Indeed, do they even care what these verses declare? You can be sure that they do not declare that when God is finished with the Gentiles, He's coming back again to be the deliverer of a literal Kingdom of Israel in the middle east. That is pure fabrication. The Kingdom has been taken from Israel, and given to another according to God. To return the Kingdom to national Israel would frankly be to dabble in 'absurdity.' Is Christ going back to shadows and 'types' after they were fulfilled? Will He delight in Old Testament Temples after the anti type, the 'true' has come? Will he go back to sacrifices in this Temple after the 'true' has shed his blood? The whole position of some of these Theologians is quite preposterous.

Paul understands Israel's imminent danger in looking for an earthly king and earthly ruler, and preaches that he may provoke the Jews (whom he called his own flesh, because he is an Israelite), not in hopes that only the Gentiles will receive the privileges of the gospel, but that Israel also may share in the Messianic Kingdom with them.

This verse fourteen is illustrating that paul desires the salvation of the Jews and hopes that many by some means he might provoke to emulation and through repentence Save 'some of them' by his preaching. A clear indication that he knows there is no future Salvation plan for Israel (as some allege) but that his hope is as scripture reveals. That a remnant might be Saved.

VERSE FIFTEEN

• "For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?"

Again, some Theologians read this verse 'as if' they never read the preceding verse, and allege this says the nation of Israel will be restored in the future. In other words, they throw out the whole context in which this verse is found in order to hold onto their teachings. But let's read it in the light of the preceding verse. "If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?" You see, it takes on it's true meaning, that Paul preaches that he might provoke to emulation 'some' of his Jewish brethren that they would be Saved, now, and the receiving of them is life from the dead. Proving again the old axiom, 'scripture out of context is pretext.'

This is the same thing we learned in verse 12. The casting away of national Israel (in part) was for the reconciling of the world. In doing this, God made possible that the gospel would go to the Gentiles that they could also come into the Covenant with Israel and become Sons of God. Jew and Gentile in 'one body' in Christ Jesus. This is the truth so marvelously stated in Ephesians chapter 2.

Ephesians 2:12-19

• "Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

• And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:"

This is the reconciling of the world which spoke of Christ. By some of the Jewish people being cast off, the nations or Gentiles are grafted into Covenant Israel, being reconciled to God through Christ in one body. And if the casting away of these be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be but life from the dead? In other words, though the Jewish people be cast off (in part), the receiving in again of them would be as if they were raised up to life, after being dead.

This verse fifteen is illustrating just as these branches were cast off, God is able to receive the Jews into Covenant Israel again. i.e., He has not forbidden Jews. It is by Grace we stand, let us not boast or think ourselves better, or think the Jews cannot be Saved. That is not the case as paul illustrates. They can be received again as life from the dead. Not as a nation, but as particular people.

VERSE SIXTEEN

• "For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches."

Christ is the Firstfruit that came out of Israel, and it is He who makes the lump or 'whole mass' Holy. For example, if you were to put yeast or leaven in a lump (such as dough dedicated to the only true God), then that leaven will make the whole dough rise, or make the whole lump Holy. This is the illustration of Christ's work.

Matthew 13:33

• "Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened."

Christ is that leaven of the Kingdom, which makes those in it Holy to be used for the 'purpose' of God. He makes the increase. He is that firstfruit, Holy, so that the whole lump can be Holy.

1st Corinthians 15:20

• "But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept."

Because He is the firstfruit of Israel, we (as those risen in Him) are also firstfruits of Israel. The picture here is that Christ is the Israel which is Holy, the firstfruit and what makes those branches in Israel Holy and firstfruits. He is the true Israel within Covenant Israel, which made the people Holy. Whoever thinks that they of their own will are Holy or righteous are deceiving themselves. Likewise, Christ is the Root of the tree. It is this Root which makes the branches Holy, and the branches are not Holy in themselves. Which is why some could be broken off. The Root did not bear them.

Revelation 22:16

• "I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star."

Christ is the root [rhiza], and except man receive his holiness and strength from 'this' Root, he will not endure in Israel the true tree. He is like a planting which has no root to get nourishment and the strength to survive.

Luke 8:13

• "They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away."

These with no Root fall away because they have not the strength of Christ. He is that root which would feed them that they would endure trial and strife. Without this root, when tribulation arises, these plantings depart from the faith. But if their Root is holy, by being Christ, these plantings are also Holy. Only then shall the branches survive. Branches which do not get their food from the Root, will not endure!

Verse sixteen of Romans chapter 11 is illustrating that it is Christ who makes the Children of Covenant Israel, the enduring Israel. If the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the Root be holy, so are the branches. The Covenant relationship with Israel symbolized by the 'Olive Tree,' is one in which without the root bearing the branches, they are cast off. God is the one making the branches holy. It's not a matter of our will to do so, but of His will and His purposes. He is the one who denies branches sustenance, and who cuts them off from Covenant Israel, signified by the Olive Tree.

VERSE SEVENTEEN

• "And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;"

Note this verse deals with Covenant Israel (both old and new) and pictures it as an olive tree. The Jewish people of this Israel are signified as the branches that grow out of that olive tree. We read there that some of the branches of this tree (some of the Jewish people of Covenant Israel) were broken off, and branches from the Gentile nations (Symbolized by a wild Olive tree) were grafted into that Covenant Tree signifying New Covenant Israel. We must be clear on what these symbolism represent before we can have any chance of understanding what is being said here.

Notice that God is making the distinction between the natural olive tree branches (the Jewish people naturally of Covenant Israel) which are the original children, and the wild olive tree branches (the people of the Gentile nations) which are now also Children of God brought into God's Covenant with Israel.

Galatians 3:26-29

• "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

• For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

• There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

• And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."

Both made one in New Covenant Israel where there is neither Jew nor Gentile. Both are the now the Children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. Has the Promise to Israel of the New Covenant and inheritance been abrogated? No, but Israel shall be defined by God, not man. If we are in Christ Israel, then we are all Abraham's seed and inheritors of the Promise to Israel.

Again, it's very important to understand that distinction there in Romans chapter eleven verse seventeen. Because the symbolism in this Olive Tree 'proves' that Old Covenant Israel is now New Covenant Israel, the Congregation of Jews and Gentiles alike, in one body Israel. Note that the Gentiles branches were grafted in among the Jewish branches into Covenant Israel, and 'with them' partakest of the root and fatness of this olive tree. They (the Jews or branches not broken off) are partaking of the fatness of the tree, and God says now we Gentiles are grafted in 'among them' in their Olive tree and also are partaking of the fatness thereof.

Symbolism is rampant in God's word, and using objects to illustrate truth is a mainstay of scripture. One tree is Covenant Israel (Old Testament Israel), the other is the Gentile nations collectively. Obviously, if the tree is Covenant Israel and the branches are the Jewish people of that Israel, then when the Gentiles are taken from their tree (the Gentile nations), and are grafted in with Israel, they then become part of that Covenant with Israel which the tree represents. To say anything less is ludicrous. They've left their Gentile tree, and enter the tree of the Jews, now being heirs of the Promises to 'Covenant Israel' right along with the Jewish branches that were not broken off in God's judgment.

By the same token, those branches broken off (Jewish people who were not truly Saved, and are blinded) they are not Israel in God's eyes. In the Biblical vernacular, they have been cut off! That is the picture that we see in Romans chapter 9, of, 'all Israel, not being Israel.' Some have been cut off from the tree (Covenant Israel) and are in spiritual blindness, while some Gentiles have been grafted in so that their blindness is lifted and they are made to see. Gentile Christians are now part of Covenant Israel along with the Apostle Paul, Peter, and all Jewish people (believers) who are not broken off. This includes any Jewish Christians today. Together we make up this New Covenant tree, the Israel of God. Together we abide in the House which is Christ, Israel. Jew and Gentile in one tree. Theological rhetoric not withstanding, there are not two Godly trees, nor two New Covenants (Testaments). There is not one body of Jews and one body of Gentiles, in Christ. There is One Tree, One Covenant, One Body, and One Israel! And we are all 'one' in it, just as Ephesians so boldly declares. Consider 'carefully' God's Word on the matter:

Ephesians 2:11-20

• "Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

• That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

• But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

• For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

• Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

• And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

• And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

• For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

• Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

• And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;"

Where once we were Gentiles, strangers and aliens (noncitizens) of Israel, we are now fellow citizens, no longer foreigners or strangers from the Covenant, but fellow Saints. In Christ there is one Salvation program for both the Gentiles and the Jews. It is pride, political agenda, wishful thinking, and Church tradition that promotes this idea that God has two separate Salvation plans. There is one tree, one body, one Israel, and One deliverance of of Israel. ..which occurred at the cross.

Another thing to be consider in God's illustration of the Olive tree is that it 'cannot' represent the literal nation israel, because if it did, that would mean Gentiles were leaving their literal lands from the time of the Cross unto today to go live physically in the land of Israel. We clearly understand that cannot be! i.e., we're not being grafted into the literal earthly or worldly national Israel, the middle eastern land or nation. We are being grafted into 'Covenant Israel' which is not a nation nor land, but a 'corporate people' of God, once represented by a nation.

Likewise, the tree cannot be the Spiritual indivisible Israel of God, of which all are Saved, because they could not be broken off if this represented that Israel. This tree corporately represents the children of God, for it symbolizes Covenant Israel both on the Old and the New Covenant side of the cross. And we should not lose sight of the 'important' fact that this is the 'same' Israel tree (else how are those old testament branches broken off), but in a New Covenant Israel dispensation which allows Gentiles to be grafted into it. As indeed we did read in Ephesians chapter 2. It is important for us to understand what it cannot represent, so we may better comprehend what it must represent.

Many in the congregations today (like many in Israel then) are not truly Saved, and will be cut off. Indeed, in this verse eighteen, God warns the Gentiles not to boast, because if they do, they are deluding ourselves that they are the ones responsible for their Salvation. They are deceived into thinking that they are better than these because of understanding. But God assures us, they didn't bear the Root, but the Root bore them. In other words, we have nothing to boast about, for Christ (the Root) is our help, our strength, our author and finisher, and we cannot take one ounce of credit for being better than the Jewish people. Such pride brings about a fall.

This verse seventeen illustrates to us that some of the People of the Covenant with Israel were cut off, and we, the Gentiles were grafted in among them that remain, and along with this remnant, we are partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree.

VERSE EIGHTEEN

• Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee."

This verse continues the preceding theme about the Church having nothing in themselves to boast about. These Gentiles are not to be high minded about the Jewish people being broken off 'as if' they are somehow better, because it is Christ that bears them. They stand by Grace, not of themselves or by their good works. We cannot boast in prideful arrogance against the Jewish people that were broken off. Because if we do, we are falsely alleging that we are the ones who are responsible for our Salvation, not the Root which bore us.

It is another illustration of the great truth which permeates the whole of scripture. Namely, that no man can boast or think highly of himself, for we are Saved by grace, and that not of ourselves, we are God's authorship and work.

Ephesians 2:8-10

• "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

• Not of works, lest any man should boast.

• For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."

Therefore, the Gentiles have no reason to boast against the branches which were broken off, as the manner of some is. In humility we understand that, 'there but by the Grace of God, go I.'

This verse eighteen warns the Gentiles not to boast against the Jewish branches which were cut off, because in boasting we neglect the truth that we don't bear the Root of Israel, but the Root bears us. Let us therefore in humility understand where our virtue comes from.

VERSE NINETEEN

• "Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in."

I'm sure we've all probably heard some professing Christians who carry great animosity against Jewish people, and who speak as if the Gentiles are the favored ones. And indeed if we are Elect, it is true we are the favored ones, but these people in their high-mindedness are altogether wrong in condemning the Jews thinking their understanding makes them better. Yes, the Jews were broken off that the Gentile nations might also be grafted in, but it was because of their unbelief, and because God wanted to welcome people of all nations into the Kingdom, 'not' because Gentiles were any better. Paul understood this marvelous truth, even as he called himself the least, knowing that it was only by Grace he was what he was.

Ephesians 3:6-8

• "That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

• Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

• Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;"

Gentiles are now inheritors 'with' the Jews, and of the same body 'as' the Jews, and partaker of the same promise of the Messiah 'to' the Jews. There is no difference.

This verse nineteen is illustrating the vanity of saying that, 'the branches were broken off, that we Gentiles might be grafted in,' unless we understand exactly what and why that is.

VERSE TWENTY

• "Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:"

God says Well, or Good! In other words, it is true or well spoken that the Jews were broken off that we might be grafted in, but this was not because of our good, but because it was God's will that Grace to the Gentiles be worked out in their unbelief. In no way are we to think that it was because Gentiles were more righteous or accepting in some way. The perfect example of this Grace towards the Elect is when Israel went into the land of Canaan. What did God say to Israel concerning their right to boast in their own righteousness over these people?

Deuteronomy 9:4-5

• "Speak not thou in thine heart, after that the LORD thy God hath cast them out from before thee, saying, For my righteousness the LORD hath brought me in to possess this land: but for the wickedness of these nations the LORD doth drive them out from before thee.

• Not for thy righteousness, or for the uprightness of thine heart, dost thou go to possess their land: but for the wickedness of these nations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee, and that he may perform the word which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob."

God told Israel, it was not because you were righteous that the Canaanites were cast out of the land, but because of the wickedness of those in the land. The 'exact' same principle applies here. It is not for the righteousness of the Gentiles that God cast off Israel and grafted them in, it is because of unbelief that the Jewish people were broken off, and the Gentiles stand only by the 'faith of Christ.' Therefore, we are not to be highminded, but understand (as did Paul) that our works are because Christ works within us to will and to do. We therefore humbly seek to be Holy in Christ with reverential fear, knowledge that we stand because of Him alone. The work of faith is His work, not our own.

1st Peter 1:16-17

• "Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

• And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:"

God is no respecter of persons, and when our works are judged, they are 'perfect' because they were made perfect by the Work of Christ. We are holy only because He is Holy and we have good works only because of Christ's work.

This verse twenty is saying it is true that because of the unbelief of the Jewish branches, they were broken off from Covenant Israel. But we stand by faith alone, and that not of ourselves it is a gift of God. Therefore are we commanded to not be highminded, but fear. Unfortunately, many look down upon the Jews, as the Jews looked down upon the Gentiles in their day. Let us in in humility understand the true nature of our redemption and source of our good works. If we do that, then who can boast against anyone?

VERSE TWENTY ONE

• "For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee."

For we likewise can be cut off (a warning many choose to ignore). This tree represents all those professing part of the Covenant with Israel. Which doesn't mean that they are all Saved anymore than it meant all the Old Covenant Children of Israel were Saved. Which is why these chapters cannot be studied haphazardly or sloppily. They must be carefully examined. Because in order to understand what scripture is saying, we must know exactly what this Olive tree represents, it's branches, and the breaking off of them. And it all must be totally consistent and in complete harmony with 'the whole' of scripture. From Predestination to perseverance to Israel's Covenant relationship.

The New Covenant Church (branches) can fall, just as the Old Covenant Church (branches) could. But the tree remained. And this is also illustrated throughout the New Testament in many diverse ways. Indeed, we have a prophecy of this in 2nd Thessalonians chapter 2. The apostasion or separating from God by those of the congregation. The corporate Covenant congregation (external Church) has not changed. This Olive tree (Covenant Israel) gives us a picture of that external Congregation both before the cross, and after the branches were broken off and Gentile branches grafted in.

This verse twenty one warns the Gentiles of pride or a haughty spirit saying that if God spared not the natural branches, we should 'take heed' lest He also not spare us. It tells us why, and it warns us against a self righteous nature in our relationship to the Covenant with Israel we have come into.

VERSE TWENTY TWO

• "Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off."

Some people 'choose' to see only the goodness, or what they call, 'love' of God, and totally ignore His righteous judgment. They come up with all sorts of intricate schemes and systems to twist scripture so that His judgments are no more than aberrations. These schemes are most often illustrated in doctrines like free will, Christian liberties, annihilationism, and an adversion to 'faithfully' follow the law of God (which some label legalism). They make God in their own image, taking from Him all His severe attributes. But not only is there the goodness of God, but there is the severity of God also. His severity or 'non-flexibility' in judgment to unbelievers is as sure as His goodness is to those who believe. The Jewish people of Israel who rejected Christ in unbelief were broken off from Covenant Israel, and they felt the severity of God in judgment, and because of this we Gentiles feel the goodness [chrestotes] of God.

Ephesians 2:6-7

• "And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

• That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus."

It is by Grace of God's Kindness [chrestotes] (same word translated goodness) wherein Christ (by His death) raised us up with Him to sit in the Kingdom. This is what God did through Christ.

This twenty two of Romans is illustrating that God is a God of Love and Kindness or goodness, but also a God of severity or rigorous uncompromising but righteous judgment. On them which were broken off and fell, severity, but toward those not broken off and those Gentiles grafted in, kindness, if we continue in his goodness. Otherwise, the warning is that we shalt be cut off just as these branches of Israel were. For we are not any better than the Jewish people are.

VERSE TWENTY THREE

• "And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again."

Likewise, if the Jewish people remain not in their unbelief, and turn to the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour, they will be grafted back into Covenant Israel.

1st Corinthians 12:13

• "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit."

Jews have not been excluded from the New Covenant tree. If they turn from their doctrines and be baptized into Christ, they will be back into the Covenant tree just like any other nation or people. When a Jewish person today comes to know Christ, in this symbolism he is grafted back into the Covenant. And this is what Paul talked about when saying he magnified his office if by any means he may provoke to emulation them which are his flesh (Jews) and might Save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead. He who was as dead to God, would then be made alive again.

Luke 15:24

• "For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry."

This verse twenty three is telling us not to think that the Jew now cannot be Saved, or cannot be grafted back into the tree. For God welcomes the lost sheep back into the fold. God is able to graft them in again. and indeed, a remnant is being grafted back in whenever a Jewish person is converted.

VERSE TWENTY FOUR

• "For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?"

Here God is illustrating how we (Gentiles) were aliens (foreigners) from Israel who didn't belong in the Covenant Israel tree, God made a way to graft us contrary to our nature against Israel, into Covenant Israel. We weren't the Children, but because of the love of God, have been made Children.

Matthew 15:24-27

• "But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

• Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.

• But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs.

• And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table."

We, as Gentiles, were as the heathen dogs who ate the crumbs that fell from their masters table, and yet God in his Sovereign Mercy, saw fit to make us fellow citizens. Not second class citizens as the idea of some is, but fellow citizens. Shall we then boast against the natural branches because of God's Mercy? No, we were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to our hostile nature into the Covenant olive tree. How much more can God graft back the natural branches into their own natural tree? Again, God reiterating that people of Israel can and are grafted back in.

In this verse twenty four God is illustrating how we must be humble and realize that it is because of God that we are grafted in, and not of ourselves. Likewise, the Jews can, are are being grafted back in also. They are cast out as a nation, but not as a people. The judgment was on the nation Israel, that the riches of the Gentiles could come in along with the Election. In other words, as God said in preceding verses (verse 12) Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fullness? Let us not be conceited, for this same vanity is also why they were broken off. By their unbelief, the riches of Salvation goes unto the Gentile World. If not, and if they remained without diminishing, the Gentiles would remain in spiritual poverty. If their fall be riches to us, how much more their grafting in again by our gospel be their filling up or coming back from the dead.

VERSE TWENTY FIVE

• "For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in."

This has become one of the most controversial verses of scriptures, which many theologians either misunderstand, misinterpret, or simply choose to believe that it says something that it clearly does not say.

Israel is in part blinded. What Israel is this? We have to remember that Paul is talking to the Romans (Gentiles), saying they may not boast! The Israel that is in part blinded is national Israel, since Spiritual Israel could never be blinded in this way. Paul is talking about Covenant Israel, the Jewish people (branches) who rejected Christ, and the judgment that has come upon them for the hardness of their heart. The same reason that he was sorrowful when he was explaining that, 'all are not Israel who are of Israel.' Note, he's mentioned two Israels' there (Romans 9:6). Israel the corporate entity, and the Israel within 'that' Israel which he illustrates are the only 'real' Israel of God. i.e., by His saying Israel (national) is not Israel, he is declaring there are two Israels'. Judgment has come upon national Israel which represents Covenant Israel, and they have been broken off from that Covenant leaving them blinded. But there is a part (remnant) within that Israel, which are not blinded, spoken of as the Election. What many don't understand is that they are Israel also. So that when God talks about Israel blinded, He is not talking about 'this' Israel. There is a distinction.

The controversy comes in the phrase, 'Blindness in part has happened unto Israel till the fullness of the Gentiles be come in.' Many people are confused as to what this means? But it is simply building upon what Paul has just stated. He says he doesn't want them to be ignorant of the mystery which is that the Gentiles are to be part of this same 'One Body' which is Christ Israel. He has spoken of the revelation of the mystery which has always been God's plan.

Ephesians 1:9-10

• "Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in Himself:

• That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:"

In the fulness of time, it was revealed that the Gentiles would also be a part of Covenant Israel. That is the mystery kept secret from the foundation of the world, but is now revealed. The Jew first, and then the Gentiles. There is no special dispensation of time for the Salvation of Jewish people after the Gentiles. The Jew first, and then the Gentiles. Thus all have the same opportunity to be Children of God. God has revealed the mystery that has been hid from other ages, and Paul doesn't want the Romans to be ignorant or unknowledgeable about this mystery. Gentiles are the fellow heirs with the Jews. There is one body, one Head, One Olive tree, One new Covenant Israel. The same mystery Paul wrote to the Ephesians in explaining:

Ephesians 3:3-6

• "How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

• Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

• Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

• That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:"

Not a different body, not a different dispensation, not a different congregation, nor a separate inheritance apart from the Jews, but the Gentiles are fellow heirs of the same body, and partaking of the 'same' promises, the same fatness of the tree. They are being grafted into Covenant Israel. History shows Salvation went to the Jews first, but now also goes to the Gentiles.

This verse twenty five illustrates that God doesn't want us to be ignorant of this mystery. Because in our ignorance we will become wise in our own conceits. It is revealed that blindness 'in part' of Israel has occurred, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in (to the Covenant Israel tree).

VERSE TWENTY SIX

• "And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:"

Blindness 'in part' has happened unto Israel until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in (to this Covenant Israel tree). And when the fullness of the Gentiles be come in, so (in this way) shall all Israel shall be Saved. Some Theologians attempt to rewrite verse 26 to say, 'after all the Gentiles come in, Then (meaning, after this) all national Israel is going to be Saved.' But even on the face of it that makes absolutely no sense. All Israel will never be Saved (if that 'all' means the literal nation as some claim). That is totally against everything scripture declares. There is only going to be a remnant Saved, as has already been stated in the scriptures. All of scripture is very clear that a remnant of Israel is to be Saved.

The second Point is, some Theologians (realizing that it can't really mean all, be literal referring to the nation), say that it doesn't really mean literally all israel shall be Saved, just that most of the nation Israel shall be Saved. Curiously, the want this literally to refer to national Israel, but they don't want it literally to mean all. Moreover, this only drives them deeper into confusion and rationalization, because it clearly says all Israel shall be Saved! If that all is just a remnant, then what is the need for this future Salvation program? For Paul earlier stated a remnant of Jews is even now coming in! And if that 'all' means a nation, then it is a deviation from what has been. It's an aberration, since the whole nation of Israel has never been Saved. The point is, the scriptures are not subject to arbitrary or capricious private interpretations. While it is very true that the word all is often qualified in scripture to mean 'many,' there is nothing in the context of the chapter or verse to validate the view that it refers to a most of the physical nation of Israel. For Gentiles are not grafted into a 'physical' or literal middle eastern nation of Israel. They are grafted into Covenant Israel.

The third point is, though many Theologians often take license to declare that it says 'then all israel shall be Saved, it doesn't really say that at all. It says part of Israel is blinded until the fullness of Gentiles be come in, and so all Israel shall be Saved. That is another very important distinction which is often glossed over. In other words, the scripture is saying this is how all Israel will be Saved. By some branches broken off, and some grafted in. The Jewish remnant left in the tree or grafted back in, and the fullness of the Gentiles coming in from a wild Gentile tree. And when the fulness of them come in, so all Israel that shall be Saved! The all Israel is 'all' of these who finally end up in this Covenant Israel! The Jew first, and then the Gentiles, both in one tree, and of one body.

If God had wanted to use the word 'then' there, He would most certainly have inspired it to be used there. There is a perfectly good Greek word that is translated 'then' [epeita], meaning after. God does not inspire that word to be used. The word here is the Greek word [houtos], an adverb, meaning 'the manner' in which they will be Saved. It means 'thusly' or 'in this manner/fashion/wise.' This word does not illustrate a future tense time frame at all, it is simply showing 'how' Israel will be Saved. This word [houtos] doesn't mean 'then' and is never translated then, and so it is obviously incorrect to read this verse 'as if' it means then, or 'as if' it means after the Gentiles come in. Here are just a few examples of this word's use to demonstrate it's meaning.

    Romans 9:20

• "Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? "

    Hebrews 6:9

• "But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak."

    Hebrews 10:33

• "Partly, whilst ye were made a gazing stock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used".

Those words translated thus and so are this exact same word [houtos] and means, 'in this fashion,' or 'in this way.' It is tortuous of scripture to say in Romans chapter 11 the word translated So, means 'then,' or it means 'after' the Gentiles, all israel will be Saved. It means exactly what it says there. When the fullness of Gentiles be come in, so (thusly, or in this manner) shall all Israel will be Saved. i.e., in this way, or manner shall all Israel be Saved! Not 'then' Israel shall be Saved, as legion of Theologians might have you believe. That is Biblically backward, as God says the Jew first, and then the Gentiles. He doesn't say the Jew, the Gentile and then the Jew. And the following phrases of this verse in Romans confirms these truths as it tells us just 'how' all Israel is Saved.

'..as it is written,' the Deliverer shall come out of Sion. Where is it written that the Deliverer shall come out of Zion, and what is it referring to? It's the prophecy of Christ's coming. It's not of a future event. It's not saying the Deliverer shall out of Zion (future), it's saying, 'As it is written' the deliver shall come out of Zion. A big difference there. In other words, it's directing us to scripture where it is written that the deliverer shall come out of Zion. Not making another prophecy, but pointing to (referencing) one already made. The Salvation of Israel and the Deliverer Christ it had been prophesied 'shall come out of Zion,' and it's declaring thusly, or this is how all Israel shall be Saved. But when people start adding their own little twists and extra words of a future coming of a deliverer for Israel (as if that were possible), they distort what it says, and it changes the whole prophecy 'as if' Christ didn't fulfill this.

Are we to seriously think that the Deliverer Christ is coming again out of Zion to go to the cross again and deliver Israel a second time? No, we all know that this would be confusion. Yet that is what the verse says 'if we read it with the preconceived notions which many Theologians do.' Namely, a future coming of Christ out of Zion to deliver Israel. No, Christ 'already' came out of Zion to deliver Israel, and He did! Furthermore, the words there which say:

• "..As it is written, there shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob; for this is My Covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins."

..should alert any good Bible student that this is referring to the time of the 'Cross,' not a future event. We must ask ourselves, 'when was Christ's New Covenant or Testament fulfilled, and when did the Deliverer come out of Zion, and when did He turn ungodliness away from Jacob, taking away all their sins?' There is no room for speculation or private interpretations, the only honest answer to this question is, this occurred at the time of the cross. Or do these Theologians think Christ is coming back for another work to free Israel, bring Peace, and take away ungodliness from Jacob? These are all things the scriptures tell us are already done, as it was written. This whole idea of a future restoration of national Israel, once examined, is without any firm foundation. It's built upon a footing of sand, and any house built upon it will not stand. Romans chapter 11 says, '..as it is written,' and that alerts faithful Bible scholars, teachers, Bereans of every generation, to find where it is written and to consider wisely. We compare scripture with scripture to come to the truth of every doctrine. Doing so we see it is written in Isaiah chapter 59. Read chapter 59 verses 16 to 21 and as it goes on into the next chapter 60 talking about the light to the Gentiles. How can anyone think this is not referring to the time of the cross? This is what Romans 11 talks about, and there is no question but that it was fulfilled at the time of the first advent. Sin was taken away once, transgression was taken out of Jacob once by Christ's blood, and the Deliverer came out of Zion to do this once! When we believe God, we know that this verse in Romans is directing us to this verse in Isaiah. i.e., 'as it is written.'

Isaiah 59:20-21

• "And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.

• As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD;.."

Romans 11:26

• "..as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

• For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins."

There is no question about it that Romans is referencing the prophecy that was written that 'the Redeemer SHALL come to Zion,' and 'This is My Covenant unto them.' Romans chapter eleven is not saying the deliverer shall come out of Zion (future) it's saying, it was written 'the Deliverer shall come out of zion, and this is my Covenant with them.' Romans chapter 11 is referencing these scriptures and telling us and telling us this is how all Israel shall be saved. The deliverer did come to Zion and took away the sins of Israel (Jacob). It was done by His work on the cross. And this is God's Covenant or Testament with them when He took away their sins. The Gentiles also come into this Covenant with Israel. As it was written. And when fullness of them come in, thus, or so all Israel shall be Saved. Not Then (or after that) but thusly all israel shall be Saved!

The overview of verse twenty six is that blindness in part has happened to Israel (which also means that part is not blinded, and a remnant is coming in) until the fullness of the Gentiles come in, and thus (So = in this way) all Israel shall be Saved. The truth is, Christ is the New Covenant Saviour of all men, who grafts Gentiles in 'among them.' This is the deliverer come to Zion of whom it was written would take away their sins. Not will, but He has already taken them away. Just as the rhetorical question Paul asked, 'Has His Word become void?' NO! Because Israel is defined by God, not men, and all Israel will be saved. All that Israel whom our God defines as the true Israel.

VERSE TWENTY SEVEN

• "For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins."

How many Covenants did the Lord have in prophecy to take away the sins of Israel? Only one! Again, Is Christ going to the cross a second time? Did He not already take away all the sins of everyone in the whole world, both Jew and Gentile? Did He not make strong that Covenant in His blood (Hebrews 9:17-18)? The only rational answer is yes, of course He did! Christ is not coming a second time to take away sin (as if that were possible), he's coming to judge sin. So then 'what' is this verse talking about? Obviously it can only be speaking about the prophesied New Covenant with Israel when He took away their sins? As we've already seen, the New Covenant with Israel is with God's chosen people, the congregation, both Jews and gentiles (see Hebrews chapters 8-9). There is the Old Testament, and there is the New Testament with Israel. There is no third New Testament with Israel when Christ will come again to take away their Sins and in which is another Covenant. That would be Confusion!

Hebrews 8:12-13

• "For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

• In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."

The old is over, the New is here, so how could this be talking about some other future Covenant? Jesus said, I am come but to the Lost sheep of the House of Israel. Are we to think that Jesus was confused and He didn't come for those of Israel or that He didn't take away their sins? Acts chapter 13:23 tells us (speaking of David) '..of this man's seed hath God According To His Promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus.' Are we to reject that Word and claim that, 'no God didn't as yet, and Jesus will come as the Saviour to Israel at a later time?' God forbid! It's foolishness to think such things, and yet intelligent people believe them without really thinking about it. And note, it was according to His promise to Israel. So how can anyone tell us God hasn't fulfilled His promise to raise unto Israel a deliverer as yet and Romans is future? In faithfulness we must forsake the word of man for the Word of God. You'll find that whenever there is a dispute about scripture, it is generally because someone wants to ignore certain pertinent verses in order that they may hold to these views which they have been taught. In a word, 'tradition.' We must be careful not to fall into that snare that Israel did, for all scripture must be in agreement with itself, and reconciled that the truth is made manifest. Truth is not in the picking and choosing select verses, it's in the receiving of all verses as true, that no verse make another null and void. There are no 'dueling scriptures.' One cannot make another untrue. Trust all of God's Word implicitly because it will not lead you wrong. ..by contrast, man's word will will inevitably lead you astray if you do not examine it in 'light' of the whole Bible.

God is not a respecter of persons. Israel shall be Saved, but that Israel is not a middle eastern Kingdom, rather it is a Spiritual Kingdom of Jews, a chosen people, a Spiritual nation.

1st Peter 2:9-10

• "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

• Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy."

We are a nation which has been Saved, a peculiar or special people, a chosen people, a Holy nation, but not a nation in the middle east. There is No future Salvation program for the nation of Israel. The time of Salvation for all is Now! Now is the day of salvation.

Luke 19:9-10

• "And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.

• For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."

Rejection of Messiah by the Jewish people doesn't mean that the New Covenant with Israel is postponed, it only means they are blind to it being there. To declare to anyone of Israel the myth of a future Salvation plan, is to play a cruel hoax or joke upon them! That is not Love of God! Love is the truth, not smooth words. As Jesus said when He was anointed and began His work, 'Now is the acceptable year.' The Time to be grafted back into this tree is now, not after the tree is complete or full with the Jews and the Gentiles. Because when it's full with them, it's too late. All Israel will have been Saved! And not saved as men say, but as it was written.

As previously stated, there are some who recognize the inconsistency of the theory that all the nation israel shall be Saved, and so they'll agree, 'You're right, God will Save only a remnant from Israel. But He will do it after the fullness of the Gentiles come in.'

But this theory will not stand the test of scripture either. Surely God will preserve a remnant from Israel, but if they read the whole chapter of Romans 11, in Context, they would see scripturally how that remnant is preserved. In speaking about this remnant God gives the example of the prophet Elias and How he thought there were no servants of God left but him. God says, no, I have preserved a remnant.

    Romans 11:4

• "But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to Myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to baal. Even so at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of Grace."

When is God preserving a remnant? Even at this Present time! God hath not cast off His people, he has preserved for Himself a remnant. Not after the fullness of the Gentiles come in, but even at this present time. Right Now! Now is the time for Salvation for all God's people. Jews and Gentiles alike. Time and time again God's Word tells us there is no difference. The Old Testaments prophesies of Kingdoms, lands and the building of the Temple were for types. With Christ's advent, they types were fulfilled. To go back to them would be an abomination.

If God is Saving a remnant from Israel right now, (and we all know that He is) then it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever that, 'after the Gentiles come in, God will save a remnant from Israel.' It's redundant! The remnant from Israel is being Saved Right Now, along with the remnant from the Gentiles. These theories fails on both counts. Both that the verse means all the literal nation will be saved, and likewise that it means that only a remnant will be Saved later. For there are not two trees, two bodies, or two New Covenants, so there cannot be two Salvation programs.

When the fullness of Gentiles come in, it will be to late for anymore coming into Israel. For 'So' all Israel will be Saved, as it is written! Ultimately, Christ is the Israel. Anyone doubting that should read Isaiah chapter 49 verses 1, 2 and 3 of He who has a sword for a mouth named Israel. That is Christ. And except we be in Christ, we are not the Israel of God. Which is why Romans 9 says all Israel are not Israel.

If Christ is Israel, then we as the body of Christ are Israel. That's why we are exhorted in 2nd Timothy 2:15 to Study to shew ourselves approved unto God a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of Truth. These words are not put here so we can practice our reading skills. God wants us to study and learn. Sadly people get an idea about what scripture means in their head, and often it seems to take forever to get it out. We need to start leaning on the Word of God and not upon our teachers words. Unfortunately, just the opposite is happening today. But if we let the scriptures tell us, then we know we are on the right path. Love of the Jewish people is in telling them 'the truth' of scripture. It is not in perpetuating fables, or saying Peace, Peace when there is no Peace. Jesus is coming again to judge, for He already came as the King of Israel. But don't take my word for it (don't take any man's word), search the scriptures.

    John 12:13:

• "Took branches of Palm trees, and went forth to meet Him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord. And Jesus, when He had found a young ass, sat thereon; AS IT IS WRITTEN, fear not daughter of Sion: Behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt."

The deliverer out of Sion which Romans 11 talks about, is fulfilled! How many times must theologians read these things before they realize Christ already came as King of Israel, He already established his kingdom, and we are translated from the power of darkness into it! This verse says Christ fulfilled this prophesy of the deliverer from Zion, 'as it is written.' How many times must man read scriptures before it is sufficient to prove that this is true? It's sad that so many indoctrinated in this teaching will generally continue to hold the view Christ must come again as deliverer to Israel, because that's what they have been spoon fed. There are 'few' in our day who will with all readiness of mind, receive God's Word on this matter. Was Jesus The King of Israel? Indeed He was.

The whole theory of future restoration of Israel is based on misunderstandings and Church tradition, not sound hermeneutics. The Israel that the unconditional promises were to, is the Elect Congregation. It is the only body which is Saved unconditionally. Did God promise to restore the nation of Israel to prominence and blessing? If we say yes, then we declare that promise to the nation was unconditional. Yet, if He promised to bless that nation unconditionally, then how could He possibly cut them off as branches from this Covenant Olive tree 'because of their unbelief?' It makes no sense. Because in such a case God would have been bound or obligated to bless them despite their unbelief because of His promise. Likewise, if His promise to the nation were not unconditional, then how could God then restore them who reject him? The whole theory falls apart on the face of it.

The 'all' Israel that will be Saved is the all Israel for which the Deliverer came out of Sion, and for whom He went to the cross to redeem. Not all a nation, but all His people. The New Covenant with Israel is that of which the fullness of Gentiles come into, and when the fullness be accomplished, thus all Israel will be Saved.

    Matthew 2:2

• "Saying, Where is He that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen His Star in the east, and are come to worship Him."

To say Jesus will come in the future as King of the Jews is tortuous to the scriptures! Christ was born king of the Jews!

John 19:21-22

• "Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews.

• Pilate answered, What I have written I have written."

It was written on His cross in three languages, and God made certain the Jews who wanted that inscription changed, could not change it. For He is the King of the Jews. But as God says, a Jew is not a Jew as man defines him, but as God does (Rom. 2:28-29). Christ already came and set up His Kingdom. His Kingdom is not a Earthly kingdom, but a Heavenly Kingdom which is everlasting, and shall never pass away. We can know in Truth that when Christ returns, it will not be to Save all the literal nation of Israel, it will be to rapture the Israel of God, and in Judgment upon those who are not of that 'one body!'

This verse twenty seven of Romans is illustrating the New Covenant Congregation, a reference to the prophecy, 'For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.' An act done on the cross, not a future event as some allege these verses speak of.

VERSE TWENTY EIGHT

• "As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes."

The unbelievers of Israel were enemies of converted Jews and Gentiles, but as for the Election of Israel, these are beloved for the promises made to the Fathers. i.e., the Promise to the fathers will be kept in 'this Election.' This verse is contrasting the two Israels' (romans 9:6), unbelieving Israel who are enemies, and Elect Israel who are beloved.

There are those who claim that it is ridiculous to say that the all Israel of Romans 11:26 describes only the Elect, for then this, 'they' of Romans 11:28, (Elect), would be regarded as enemies. They come to these conclusions because they either forget, or ignore the witness of the context, and the whole of scripture in general. How many times does God have to say 'All Israel are not Israel?' So then, when it says in the preceding verses that "ALL ISRAEL" shall be Saved, it must refer only to the Israel which is Israel. The Election Israel excludes those not Elect. Even the staunchest defender will usually not make the claim that all Israel means every single person, bar none will be saved. Therefore, he recognizes that some of Israel are not included in this 'all Israel' which shall be Saved.

Moreover, when it declares, for that is when God will take away their sins, then by definition, and by any normal grammatical structure, this Israel in view will have their sins forgiven, and indeed they do then become enemies of that other Israel (that paul says is not Israel) which is opposed to Christ. Because all people are either for Christ, or they are against Him. There is no in between.

Romans 11:27-28

• "For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.

• As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes".

There are two aspects here. Number one, as concerning the gospel, they (the nation Israel, blinded) are enemies for our sakes. For they are at enmity with Christ, and that enmity brought Salvation to the Gentiles. Number two, concerning the Election (Chosen, of Israel, and not blinded), they are beloved as the remnant who God has brought through the fire for His promise to the fathers. Israel persecuted the Church as enemies of God. Which Paul also confessed he also did as a blind Israelite before his conversion:

1st Corinthians 15:9

• "For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God."

But now is Paul part of the other Israel within Israel, a remnant chosen according to Election and the purpose of God. God is using him gloriously to bring about Salvation to the Gentiles. His Salvation as an Israelite is the fulfillment of the promises He made to the fathers. Israel, the beloved, is a type of Christ (Israel) the Beloved of God. The Son called out of Egypt, in whom the election would be beloved of God, and in whom they become the Beloved Holy City. You might study the word beloved in scripture as it is used in very interesting ways. There is no riddle or mystery concerning this verse about Israel and the Election. The answer to this was stated right in verse 7.

Romans 11:5-8

• "Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the Election of grace.

• And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

• What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded

• (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day".

How clear can it get about these two diverse peoples called Israel? Israel the nation hasn't obtained it, but Israel the Election has. The Remnant is according to the election of Grace, not race. There is the truth of this Election direct from God. Israel, the nation, hasn't obtained it, but Israel, the Election, the Beloved of God, has obtained it!

This verse twenty eight is illustrating that concerning the gospel, Israel the nation hate it and are enemies for our sakes. They are blinded that we might see. But concerning Israel the Election, they are beloved for the fathers sake. That is why Paul was sorrowful because of his kinsmen according to the flesh. For they were enemies while he was the beloved Election, and he mourned for them. This verse contrasts Israel as an enemy, and Israel concerning the Election, who are beloved of God. There are two peoples called Israel, which many Theologians seem desperate not to acknowledge.

VERSE TWENTY NINE

• "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance."

They are made enemies for the Church's sake, but in regards to the Election of Israel, beloved for the fathers. Because the gift of God, and His divine calling according to His own will and purposes (rather than ethnicity) God does not repent of. God makes no apologies for Whom He chooses to Save. Nor for whom He chooses not to Save.

The Greek word Gift [charisma] means God's bestowing his favor, in freely or gratuitously giving us individual gifts and talents to use in the promulgation of the Gospel. Gifts such as Peace with God, wisdom in the Word wherein we see what the unsaved cannot see, or individual gifts such as being good at teaching or ministering, by degrees, according to His will. This is opposed to what the word Charisma has 'fallen' or been degraded to mean in modern times.

And the calling of God. The Greek word calling [klesis] here denotes that act of God by which he draws men to Christ (John 6:44) by the promises of the gospel, and through the influences of His Spirit.

This verse twenty nine illustrates that the gifts and calling of God to the remnant Gentiles and Jews are without regret, repentance, or turning away by God. For by Israel's fall, God has brought mercy to the entire world. And this is again what is illustrated in the next verse.

VERSE THIRTY

• "For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:"

Before the cross, we Gentiles (for the most part), were in the very same boat that Israel is in now. We would not believe God, we would not obey God, we only wanted to do what we wanted, as is the character of all the unsaved world. We were blind, in captivity to Satan, and now through the Mercy of God we have obtained fellowship with Christ through the unbelief of Israel as they have become enemies for our sakes. Before we were called and given the gifts, we were in an idolatrous and desperately wicked state in the Gentile world, but through Israel's unbelief, we have been given the Gift of God, and a new lease on life.

Ephesians 2:1-5

• "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

• Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

• Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

• But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

• Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)"

This verse thirty is giving the Church the illustration that Israel did not fall just that they would be hurt, but that we Gentiles who in times past have not believed God, would now obtain His mercy through their unbelief. They have become enemies for our sakes.

VERSE THIRTY ONE

• "Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy."

Likewise, as God has used the Jews unbelief to Save the Gentiles, God will uses the Gentiles to Save a remnant of Israel. Through our Love of God, wherein we are merciful, we have love for them that we carry the gospel to them also. They aren't cast off, they should be called-again to the favour and fellowship with God by our preaching. God has not forbidden Israel, rather all of us in his own turn are vessels of Salvation to the other. National Israel to the Gentiles by their unbelief, but also the Gentiles in their turn to Israel, by our belief. Those who have no mercy upon others, do not obtain mercy from God. i.e., Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy (Matthew 5:7). We are not called to hatred and boasting, but to compassion and mercy. We do not look upon Israel as that dreadful nation which hates Christ, we look upon them in compassion and mercy, understanding that, 'there, but by the Grace of God, go I' We understand that their fall was for our benefit, and that we should not hold that against them. Judgment belongs to God.

This verse thirty one is illustrating that just as we have obtained the gospel and mercy through Israel who lies in unbelief, through our mercy they also may obtain mercy.

VERSE THIRTY TWO

• "For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all."

God has concluded [sugkleio] or shut together (enclosed) them all in unbelief, and He didn't do it because the Gentiles were good, or better, or smarter, but so that He could have mercy (undeserved favor upon the guilty) upon the whole world, and not just Israel. This word does not imply that the sin and unbelief for which Israel was blinded was involuntary, it means that God used their wilful sin to His own Glory, in having Mercy upon all peoples. God shutting Israel up in unbelief permitted, because He had proposed to use their unbelief in His redemptive plan of Election to all nations.

God has allowed both the Gentile and the Jew successively, to remain under unbelief and disobedience, that he might have mercy upon all peoples of the world. The Gentiles in unbelief first (or rather, the Jews in belief first) and then the Jews in disbelief (or rather the Gentiles in belief).

This verse thirty two is illustrating that God's Mercy is made manifest to all tongues, and nations. No one has any right to complain, argue, boast or say it is unfair that the Jews are now in unbelief. Because they had belief first, and now God hath concluded them in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon the rest of the world also. The Righteousness of this is self evident!

VERSE THIRTY THREE

• "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!"

Here we are admiring three attributes of God, in His Riches, His wisdom, and His knowledge. God's Riches is illustrating the wealth of the 'precious' treasures of the kingdom, which are more valuable than fine gold. We can see this in Christ's parables about the treasures of the Kingdom given us, and also right in this very chapter, as we read in verse 12, "Now if the fall of them be the 'riches' of the world, and the diminishing of them the 'riches' of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?" i.e., the riches of God to the Gentiles is translation into the Kingdom, the Salvation of the Messiah which is given to these Gentiles, as well as national Israel. Israel not being excluded by the fall, but the Gentiles being included in 'The Israel of God.'

Colossians 1:27

• "To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:"

The riches of the glory of the Gentiles God defines as, Christ in us. And wisdom given us is in the Holy Spirit which guides us into good judgment and sense of the truth. It is by this Spirit of wisdom that we understand the Word of God, and that our desire is to do God's will and know it's right and just.

Colossians 3:16

• "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."

In God's Riches and wisdom, through the Holy Spirit, He bestows those riches and that wisdom unto us by measure.

James 1:5

• "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

Colossians 2:2

• "That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;"

• In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."

This is the depths of the riches or treasures of wisdom and knowledge of God, which is brought to us.

This verse thirty three is illustrating these things which makes us express in glorious admiration of God, 'O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God.' This is what makes us ask, 'how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out?' For God had proposed to do this for all nations of the earth, before the world began. But the full revelation of His judgments are past our finding out. We know in part, but when Christ comes again at the second advent, then shall we know even as we are known. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out.

VERSE THIRTY FOUR

• "For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?"

Who knew that God would do this for the Gentiles? No one, for it was a mystery to man kept secret from the beginning. Who was God's counselor [sumboulos] or adviser who was sitting there and planed this with Him? No one. This verse is a rhetorical question illustrating God's Sovereignty.

Isaiah 40:13-14

• "Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or being his counsellor hath taught him?

• With whom took he counsel, and who instructed him, and taught him in the path of judgment, and taught him knowledge, and shewed to him the way of understanding?"

When God predetermined that the Gentiles would become a part of Israel and join as one body (Ephesians 2:10-19),