Romans 9:1-5 (The Message and TNIV)
Chapters 9-11 contain Paul's grand argument for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In the first five verses, he sets the tension that will carry the argument in the following chapters. Paul unveils the tension in his heart for the Israelite people, of which he is one. He introduces a question that will carry us through the next several chapters: What is the status of the Israelites?
Some believe that the Israelites are held to a different standard. They are saved through their covenant with God in the Old Testament, but Paul does not believe so and thus explains that the rejection of most Israelites for Jesus as the Messiah puts them on the outs with God, no matter what their bloodline is. This is where Paul finds his greatest sorrow. His people are his greatest pain. He would do anything for them to understand and know this Gospel he declares.
Who are your Israelites? Who is it in your "family" that drives you to this sort of despair because they reject the Gospel that has brought you so much life? Is it a parent that has confessed their doubt in the God you love? Maybe it's a sibling that has chosen a different path than you wish for them. Maybe it's your best friend from years ago that has fallen so far off the path that you aren't sure they will make it back.
Understanding the depth of concern Paul has for the Israelites will help you understand what he is about to tell them. His harshness comes from a deep place of love for them. He is not out to beat them up or hammer them for their failures. His love for them is strong enough to confront them in their disbelief and their failures, even if it's uncomfortable.
(If you are waiting for the Reading Plan for Romans, I should have chapter nine finished by this evening and emailed out to everyone.)
I've mentioned this before to my table group, but my heart aches for pretty much my entire family (the one I was born into). No one has rejected God, I don't think, but they are not aware of the absolute peace that He can give, and I want that so badly for them.
ReplyDeleteEmma, I hope that when you read Paul's words about the Israelites you can tie your emotion for your family to his emotion. I'm trying my best to do the same.
ReplyDelete