I probably sound like a broken record, but again there is more that I could say about these two chapters than could possibly be put in a single devotional. Romans is one of the richest books in the entire New Testament and it is a foundational text for our understanding of Grace and Salvation. So many of our core doctrines related to justification and salvation are beautifully expounded by Paul in this book and yet this book is sometimes a source of division among believers when it comes to Sovereignty and Choice. Paul, though, cared much more about grace than he ever cared about camps. Consider this chapter’s treatment of two camps in Paul’s day; the Jews and the Gentiles.
Even though the Israelites were God’s chosen people, Paul says that a partial hardening had occurred so that “salvation could come to the Gentiles to make Israel jealous.” God has not rejected them, but because of their rejection of Jesus “God’s riches has come to the whole world”… to you and to me. Paul is just following up on that Romans 8:28 theme; everything working out for our good and His glory. He has a plan, He is sovereign and nothing takes Him by surprise. Whether those who are called choose Him or reject Him, He is still on the throne and He is still at work in the midst of all of that. He is at work in a way that is mysterious; beyond my insight or understanding and that can only be termed “Grace.”
What grips my heart the most, though, are these words about Israel, “Now if their transgression brings riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their fullness bring! … For if their rejection brings reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead?” 11:12-15. Here’s the point, Paul still has hope that some of his own people will turn to Christ, even though he sees how God has taken their rejection and turned it around for good for the world. Yet, Paul speculates, “What miracles could God do with their obedience?” That convicts me deeply, because I often think of God’s grace in taking my mistakes and turning them out for good… BUT THAT IS NOT AN EXCUSE TO JUST KEEP MAKING MISTAKES! If God can work things out to be glorified even when I fail, think how much more He can be glorified when I succeed. Yes, God is a God of mercy and second chances, but why not get it right the first time and strive to bring Him glory in obedience from day one? God is glorified in our forgiveness, but don’t forget He is also glorified (perhaps more so) when you walk in His victory.
