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Nazarene Commentary 2000©

21^st Century Paraphrase of the Hebrew Scriptures© –
21^st Century Version of the Christian Scriptures© [NCMM]

THE LETTER TO THE ROMANS

CHAPTER ELEVEN:
“Is God Unjust?”

[“Saving ‘Israel’”]
Key word: Israel
Theme Verse: 26

Romans 11:1-6 – God Did Not Reject ‘Israel’

RO11:1 I ask, then, did The God reject His People? 634 No, never! 635 For I am an Israelite! 636 From the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Benjamin! 637

634

I ask, then, did The God reject His People: Paul moves on to a paramount question regarding the status of his own kinsmen in Israel. Compare 1 Samuel 12:22; Jeremiah 31:37; Amos 9:8. Though Israel is under a curse of their own doing and in general as a corporate body, they have lost the kingdom privileges individual Jews may receive Christ.

635	No, never: Or, KJV: God forbid; RSV: by no means.

636	For I am an Israelite: Paul’s answer to the question on whether God had rejected His People is to point to his own individual example. (Acts 22:3; 2 Corinthians 11:22)

637	From the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Benjamin: Compare Philippians 3:5.

RO11:2 The God did not reject His People whom He knew first. 638 Or, do you not realize what Elijah says in the Scripture how he pleads with The God against Israel: 639

638	The God did not reject His People whom He knew first: Compare Exodus 19:5; Psalm 94:14. Paul makes it clear God did not reject Israel as a class or type for Paul argues that he is an Israelite. Paul clarifies what he means as he continues.

639	Do you not realize what Elijah says in the Scripture how he pleads with The God against Israel: Paul will now quote from 1 Kings 19:10.

RO11:3 “YHWH, they have killed Your prophets and Your altars they have dug up. And I alone have survived 640 and now they seek even my soul.” [1 Kings 19:10]

640	And I alone have survived: Elijah has given up in his persecutions and is feeling sorry for himself when Yehowah appears and comforts the prophet.

RO11:4 But, what does the divine response answer? 641 “I have let remain for Myself seven thousand men 642 who did not bow the knee to Baal.” 643

641	What does the divine response answer: Or, KJV: what saith the answer of God unto him; NEB: what does the oracle say.

642	I have let remain for Myself seven thousand men: Or, KJV: reserved to myself; ASV: left; KNX: I have kept true to myself. There is a possible allusion to this number 7,000 at Revelation 11:13. It seems a number of spiritual perfection with regard to a remnant. Compare 1 Kings 19:18.

643

Who did not bow the knee to Baal: Or, KJV: to the image of Baal; GDS: never knelt to Baal; NEB: not done homage. There were likely millions numbered among Israel at this time. These 7,000 plus Elijah would have been the real “Israel” because of their obedient devotion to Yehowah. The remainder of the nation of Israel would have been under the “curse” Moses foretold and Paul mentions in Romans 9:3. Compare Deuteronomy 28:7-62. The name “Baal” means “Lord.” [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #896] It is unfortunate that a vast number of modern Christians have forgotten God’s Name YHWH in favor of the title “Lord.” Because of a Trinitarian bias the title “Lord” is confusing as to whether it means God or Christ. Note the prophecy at Jeremiah 23:27.

RO11:5 So, then, also, at the present time a remnant [of Israel] has come into existence by [God’s] choosing and unmerited favor. 644

644

At the present time a remnant [of Israel] has come into existence by [God’s] choosing and unmerited favor: Or, KJV: a remnant according to the election of grace; CON: a remnant of the house of Israel; AMP: a remnant (a small believing minority). See the notes on Romans 9:27. Paul’s parallel of the 7,000 out of all the nation of Israel in Elijah’s time is compared to those first thousands of Jewish believers who accepted Jesus as Messiah. (Acts 2:41; 4:4) These would have resented the real “Israel” Paul mentions in Romans 9:6. See notes on Romans 2:28, 29. (Galatians 3:29; 1 Peter 2:9) This new spiritual “nation” (Matthew 21:43) would include later non-Jewish disciples from among the nations.

RO11:6 However, since it is no longer the unmerited favor that results from works 645 it results from unmerited favor.

645	Since it is no longer the unmerited favor that results from works: See notes on Ephesians 1:7; 2:8, 9 (Galatians 2:16; 5:4) Research the Greek CHARIS (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #5485) for details on grace or undeserved kindness.

Romans 11:7-10 – Why Israel Failed

RO11:7 What, then? What Israel was seeking, this he did not obtain 646. Rather, the Chosen obtained it. 647 However, the rest [of Israel] were made callused. 648

646	What Israel was seeking, this he did not obtain: Or, TCN: Israel as a nation failed to secure what it was seeking; WMS: failed to obtain. See notes on Romans 9:31 and John 1:11. Israel failed to obtain the promise for the reasons explained in Deuteronomy chapter 28 and Deuteronomy 18:19.

647

The Chosen obtained it: Or, KJV: the election hath obtained it; CON: the chosen have won it; TCN: those whom God selected; KNX: only this chosen remnant has attained; NEB: selected few. By “chosen” or “elect” Paul means that “remnant” of Israel he has just mentioned in parallel with the 7,000. See notes on John 1:12 and Romans 11:28. “The Chosen” would include the Jewish thousands that accepted Jesus as the Messiah and their Lord in the early stages of the Nazarene movement. (Acts 2:41; 4:4) “A large crowd of [Jewish] priests started to obey the Faith.” (Acts 6:7) The prophet Daniel had foretold a seven-year period of grace for the Jews which encompassed 29-36 CE, after which the first non-Jews were invited into the Church. (Daniel 9:27) Thus, Paul’s earlier phrase in Romans – “Jew first.” (See notes on Romans 1:16 and Romans 2:9, 10.)

648	The rest [of Israel] were made callused: Or, KJV: blinded; ASV: hardened; NEB: blind to the truth; NW: sensibilities blunted. That is all those millions of Jews who were not part of Paul’s chosen “remnant.” Compare 2 Corinthians 3:14.

RO11:8 Just as it has been written: 649 “The God gave to [Israel] a spirit of deep sleep, 650 [with] eyes that do not see, 651 and ears that do not hear, right up to the present time.” 652 [Deuteronomy 29:3, 4; Isaiah 29:10]

649	Just as it has been written: Paul creates a conflate or compound paraphrase of two verses – Deuteronomy 29:3, 4 and Isaiah 29:10.

650

The God gave to [Israel] a spirit of deep sleep: Or, KJV: spirit of slumber; ASV: stupor; GDS: state of spiritual insensibility; NEB: numbness of spirit; KNX: numbed their senses; TCN: deadness of mind. Those other than the Christian remnant – those millions of other Jews – a God-given spiritual slumber possesses them.

651	[With] eyes that do not see: Or, NEB: blind eyes. Note in Isaiah 29:10 the “eyes” are the false prophets of Israel.

652

Right up to the present time: Or, KJV: unto this day; GDS: down to this day; and so it is still. It is likely Paul moves Moses’ time to his own contemporary times. Deuteronomy 29:3, 4 is within the great Mosaic warning of curses should Israel as a nation fail to obey Yehowah’s commandments. See Deuteronomy chapters 28, 29. (Jeremiah 5:21)

RO11:9 And, David says: 653 “Let their table become a snare and a scandalous trap 654 [to them] – as retribution to them. 655

653	David says: Paul quotes from Psalm 69:22-24. The verses vary slight between the Hebrew and Greek texts. (LXX)

654

Let their table become a snare and a scandalous trap: Or, KJV: let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock. The Greek SCANDALON (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #4625) is generally translated “stumblingblock.” Research notes on scandal. A “table” may be a metaphor for sharing or partaking of something.

655	As retribution to them: Or, KJV: recompense; BEC: get what they deserve; AMP: bounding as a boomerang upon them.

RO11:10 Let their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and let their back be stooped throughout all time.” 656 [Psalm 69:22-24]

656

Let their back be stooped throughout all time: Or, KJV: bow down their back always; GDS: make their backs been forever under their burden. The image is of an old man walking stooped over as if he had an invisible burden on his back – the Law. Psalm 69:23 is variously rendered: KJV: make their loins continually to shake; MOF: make their thighs be all aquiver; HAR: bodies tremble incessantly: NJB: loins with chronic palsy; LAM: make their backs continually to bend. Israel as a group rests under the Mosaic curse of Deuteronomy 28. It is interesting that part of this curse involved physical difficulties: “Yehowah will curse you [Israel]… until He has caused you to become extinct in the land where you are going to possess… Yehowah will strike you with blindness… just as a blind person feels his way about… both knees and legs will be struck by a cancer from which you will never be healed… And these must remain on [Israel] and your offspring as a sign forever.” (Deuteronomy 28:20, 21, 28, 29, 35, 46) Judging from history since the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE the terrible curse has fallen upon the Jews because their forefathers refused to obey God’s commandments.

Romans 11:11-12 – Did Israel Fall Completely?

RO11:11 I ask, then, did [Israel] stumble so that they might fall? 657 No, never! Rather, [Israel’s] trespass means salvation to the non-Jews 658 to provoke [Israel] to jealousy. 659

657

Did [Israel] stumble so that they might fall: Or, KJV: have they stumbled that they should fall; GDS: has their stumbling led to their absolute ruin; WEY: stumbled irretrievably; WMS: fall in utter ruin; PME: utter disaster. It seems likely that Paul has in mind the entire nation of Israel absolutely as if every single Jew failed.

658

[Israel’s] trespass means salvation to the non-Jews: Or, KJV: rather though their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles; TCN: salvation has reached. The Nazarene’s parable of the invitation to the wedding feast helps explain the meaning here. See notes on Matthew 22:2 forward. God’s invitation went out to “those invited” – the Jews or nation of Israel. These generally begged off and excused themselves. “Those invited were not worthy.” (Matthew 22:8) So, now, “invite everyone” – the non-Jews (Matthew 22:9, 10) Because of this failure, or stumbling over the “stone of offense” (see notes on Romans 9:32), the opportunity to enter the Realm of Profession – with the attendant hope of sharing in the celestial marriage of the Lamb – went to those who would appreciate it among non-Jews. See notes on Romans 11:19.

659

To provoke [Israel] to jealousy: Or, ABU: to rivalry; GDS: to make the Israelites jealous; BAS: moved to envy; KNX: to rouse the Jews to emulate them. Paul has used this phrase earlier. See notes on Romans 10:19. Note in Matthew 27:18 the jealousy of the Jews even in the case of Messiah. (Mark 15:10) Surely the wide and rapid growth of the Nazarene movement must have stirred within Israel that envy. Throughout the centuries Jews converted to Christianity by the thousands.

RO11:12 However, if [Israel’s] trespass means riches to the world of humankind, 660 and their failure means riches to the non-Jews, 661 how much more [Israel’s] fullness? 662

660

If [Israel’s] trespass means riches to the world of humankind: Or, KJV: now if the fall of them be the riches of the world; CON: enriches the world; WEY: if their lapse is the enrichment of the world. Compare the notes above on Matthew 22:2-14. The failure of Israel in general to respond to God’s invitation resulted in “riches” to those within the framework of humanity (the world, or cosmos). See notes on Romans 9:23, 24. (Colossians 1:27)

661

Their failure means riches to the non-Jews: Or, KJV: the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; ABU: their diminution; WMS: overthrow; PME: defection; CON: if the lessening of their gain gives wealth to; GDS: their defeat has enriched the heathen; KNX: by their default; NWT: decrease. Consider the notes on Matthew 22:2-14.

662

How much more [Israel’s] fullness: Or, TCN: full restoration; WMS: the full quota of Jews; NWT: full number. See notes on Romans 11:25. Opinions vary on the meaning here. Some see some future conversion of the Israeli nation to Christ. It is clear the Saints “will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel” on the day of judgment. See notes on Matthew 19:28. (Luke 22:30) All who ever made up “Israel” will be judged on that Day. (See notes on Romans 2:12-16; compare also notes on Matthew 12:33-37, 39-42; 16:27; Mark 8:38.) After Judgment Day the entire compliment of righteous “Israel” will be a force for good on the everlasting New Earth. (See notes on 2 Peter 3:13; Isaiah 65:17) There will also be fleshly Jews who will survive the Day of Wrath and live on into the Thousand Year reign of Messiah. (Isaiah 65:17-24; 66:22, 23) The Greek word for “fullness” is PLEROMA (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #4138) and is thought to be drawn from the full complement of a ship’s crew.

Romans 11:13-16 – Israel’s Reception Means Life

RO11:13 However, I tell you non-Jews 663 – in as much as I really am, then, an apostle to the non-Jews, 664 I glorify my ministry –

663	I tell you non-Jews: Or, Gentiles. There are two groups in Paul’s audience: Jews and non-Jews. This natural division creates a problem of unity which Paul will now go on to address.

664

An apostle to the non-Jews: Compare notes on Romans 1:1. (1 Corinthians 9:1; 15:9; Acts 9:15; Galatians 1:16; see notes on Ephesians 3:8.) Though Paul’s ministry was directed to the non-Jews he often functioned within the Jewish synagogue until he was persona non grata. An example of Paul’s delivery of a similar message to the Jews and non-Jews can be compared by reading Acts chapters 13 and 17.

RO11:14 if somehow I might provoke my own flesh to jealousy 665 and might save some from among [Israel] 666 –

665	Provoke my own flesh to jealousy: Or, KJV: provoke to emulation; TCN: stir my country-men to rivalry. See notes on Romans 10:19.

666

Might save some from among [Israel]: It seems likely he means “save” in the sense of making disciples who become part of the Church or Body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 9:20-22. (Compare notes on Romans 9:3.) The phrase suggests that Israel as a whole will note be saved. On the subject of “save(d)” see notes on Romans 5:9, 10; Romans 8:24; Romans 9:27; Romans 10:9 13; Romans 11:26. Paul has already stated that only a “remnant” of Israel will be “saved” into the Church and its inheritance. (Romans 9:27) Also compare Acts 2:40, 47.

RO11:15 for if the casting away of [Israel] means reconciliation of the world of humankind, 667 what will their reception mean if not life from the dead? 668

667

The casting away of [Israel] means reconciliation of the world of humankind: Or, TCN: if their being cast aside has meant; AMP: rejection and exclusion from the benefits of salvation. (See notes on Matthew 21:43; Hebrews 8:13) Paul alludes back to what he has said earlier: the rejection of the Messianic invitation to the heavenly wedding feast has opened the opportunity to non-Jews of the world. This “casting away” of Israel in the general, overall sense has indirectly led to the world’s salvation. See notes on 1 John 2:2.

668

What will their reception mean if not life from the dead: Or, KJV: what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead; CON: gathering of them; MON: their restoration; WEY: admission. Jesus taught the Jews of his generation would be resurrected on Judgment Day and would find the example of Sodom, the Queen of Sheba, and citizens of Nineveh difficult to endure. (See notes on Matthew 11:24; 12:33-36, 41) Paul teaches a resurrection of both the righteous and unrighteous on a day of judgment. (Acts 17:31; 24:15) This is likely the “reception” Paul has in mind – the resurrection of the righteous among all the Hebrews who have ever lived to life under Messiah’s reign here on earth. (See notes on Revelation 20:12-14.) Not all Hebrews or Jews will gain everlasting life. (See notes on Matthew 23:33.)

RO11:16 Now, if the firstfruits are holy so also is the whole 669 [harvest]; and, if the Root is holy, so also the branches. 670

669

If the firstfruits are holy so also is the whole: Or, KJV: for if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy; TCN: first handful of dough, so is the whole mass; KNX: consecrated. Paul uses “firstfruits” twice elsewhere in Romans. See notes on Romans 8:23 and Romans 16:5 (1 Corinthians 16:15). In 1 Corinthians 15:20, 22 the Risen Christ is the “firstfruits.” Paul has just mentioned the resurrection of the dead and it seems possible that here now he means the Risen Christ as the “firstfruits” of the “whole lump” of the Church. See notes on Matthew 13:33. (James 1:18; Revelation 14:4) NOTE: there are a variety of views on all of these verses. Some view the firstfruits as the Patriarchs.

670

If the Root is holy, so also the branches: This confirms the above meaning. For Christ is the “root” (Isaiah 11:10; Revelation 5:5; 22:16) and the Church composes the “branches.” (John 15:1-10) Isaiah 53:2 foretells concerning the Messiah as rising up like a “root” in a desert. Paul uses the word “root” one other time at Romans 15:12, “Isaiah says: ‘From the Root of Jesse will the One rise up to rule the non-Jews’.” Based on this it would seem fair to conclude that the “root” is the Holy Seed of Abraham, Jesus Christ. However, some hold the root represents the patriarchs and thus associates this tree with fleshly Israel. Regarding any root associated with Israel Malachi prophesies: “For behold, the day is arriving that will be like a blazing furnace. All the arrogant and the lawless must become mere chaff. That day is coming and will devour them,” says Yehowah of Hosts, “so nothing will be left – not a root or branch… All of you people remember the Law of my servant Moses when I commanded him on Horeb concerning rules and laws for all of Israel.” [Malachi 4:1, 4 NCMM] Note John the Baptist’s warning to the Jews at Matthew 3:10.

Romans 11:17-24 – Stop Bragging!

RO11:17 But, if some of the branches were broken off 671 – while you, being from a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them 672 – becoming a sharer together with the olive tree root’s nourishment 673 –

671

If some of the branches were broken off: The Israelite branches, the majority of which were broken off, for the Nazarene condemns his entire generation, save for “the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” See notes on Matthew 10:6; 15:24. These broken off branches parallel “those invited” in Jesus’ wedding feast parable. (See notes on Matthew 22:2ff)

672

While you, being from a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them: It is interesting to note that here the “you” is singular of Paul’s non-Jew, just as the singular Jew in the early portions of Romans. Those non-Jews grafted in parallel those persons not originally invited to the wedding feast in Jesus’ parable at Matthew 22:2-14. On the olive tree compare Judges 9:8, 9.

673

Becoming a sharer together with the olive tree root’s nourishment: The olive tree is used as a symbol for the anointed Church. (Zechariah 4:3, 11-14; Revelation 11:3, 4) As discussed above the “root” is the primary Seed of Abraham, the Risen Christ. It is the nourishment which comes from the Nazarene that the olive tree (New Israel of God – Galatians 6:16) The idea of sharing of the Christ is inferred several times. (1 Corinthians 10:16; 1 Peter 4:13; 5:1; see notes on 2 Peter 1:4) Surely, the Root’s “fatness” or nourishment includes his blood. (John 6:53-56)

RO11:18 do not be bragging against the [natural] branches. 674 But, if you [non-Jews] do brag against them [understand] you [non-Jews] do not bear the Root, 675 but the Root [bears] you. 676

674

Do not be bragging against the [natural] branches: Or, ASV: glory not over; GDS: you must not look down upon; BAS: uplifted in pride over; BAS: arrogant toward. This is Paul’s main point though other details often get more consideration. A natural source of disunity in the early Church was the division between Jew and non-Jew.

675	If you [non-Jews] do brag against them [understand] you [non-Jews] do not bear the Root: Or, KJV: but if thou boast, thou bearest not the root; TCN: if you do exult over them, remember that you do not support the root; KNX: thou owest life to the root. (John 15:1)

676	The Root [bears] you: Or, TCN: the root supports you. (John 6:35-40)

RO11:19 You [non-Jews] will say, then, “[Natural] branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” 677

677	[Natural] branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in: Here lies the problem Paul is counseling: boastful arrogance on the part on a non-Jew over the Jews. It would be like those (non-Jews) in the wedding feast parable chiding “those invited” (the Jews) but who begged off. (John 15:6)

RO11:20 Fine! 678 They were broken off because of unbelief; 679 but you remain steadfast by means of [your] belief. 680 Do not be arrogant, but be in fear. 681

678	Fine: Or, KJV: well; KNX: true enough.

679	They were broken off because of unbelief: Or, WMS: lack of faith; GDS: want of faith. (Hebrews 3:19) Compare notes on Romans 10:3 and Romans 10:16.

680	You remain steadfast by means of [your] belief: Or, KJV: thou standest by faith; MOF: and you owe your position to your faith; WEY: you only stand through your faith. See notes on Ephesians 2:8.

681

Do not be arrogant, but be in fear: Or, KJV: be not high-minded, but fear; GDS: you ought not to feel proud; you ought to be afraid; WMS: stop your haughty thinking: rather continue to be reverent; PME: stand in awe; NEB: put away your pride, and be on your guard; NWT: quit having lofty ideas. Compare notes on Romans 12:16; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Philippians 2:12.

RO11:21 For, if The God did not spare the natural branches, 682 neither will He spare you [non-Jews].

682	God did not spare the natural branches: Compare John 15:2.

RO11:22 Observe, then God’s kindness and pruning upon those [Jews] who fell; 683 but upon you [non-Jews] God’s kindness if you continue in that kindness, 684 otherwise you also will be pruned off. 685

683

Observe, then God’s kindness and pruning upon those [Jews] who fell: Or, KJV: the goodness and severity of God; ABU: kindness and severity; PME: try to appreciate both the kindness and the strict justice of God. The word “pruning” here is from the Greek APOTOMIAN (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #663, 664), or, from + cut, that is, to cut [off] from. Paul may make a play on words tied to grafting and pruning, though most render this “severity.” See notes on Romans 2:4 and Jude 5.

684

Upon you [non-Jews] God’s kindness if you continue in that kindness: Or, KJV: toward thee goodness, if thou continue in his goodness; MOF: provided you adhere to that kindness; WEY: provided that you continue responsive to that kindness. Compare notes on Jude 21. God’s kindness depends on the disciple’s remaining in or continuing in kindness. Here the non-Jew is not being kind to the Jews.

685

Otherwise you also will be pruned off: Or, KJV: cut off; GDS: pruned away. The Greek is the same as above – APOTOMIA. No disciple of the Nazarene has a permanent place in the symbolic tree of the Church. Jesus made it clear any branch could be pruned if necessary. (John 15:1-8) Only by bearing righteous fruit may one remain in the Vine.

RO11:23 But, if those [of Israel] do not continue in their unbelief they will be grafted in, 686 for God is powerful enough to graft them in again. 687

686

If those [of Israel] do not continue in their unbelief they will be grafted in: Or, CON: faithfulness; NWT: lack of faith. Paul speaks of individual Jews who may be grafted into the New Israel Olive Tree by accepting Jesus as Messiah. Throughout the centuries hundreds of thousands of Jews have converted to the Christian Church. They Jews would have to respond to Peter’s exhortation at Acts 2:38.

687	God is powerful enough to graft them in again: Or, KJV: God is able. Compare notes on Matthew 19:26. Jews continue to be grafted back into their own natural Olive Tree of New Israel down to this day.

RO11:24 For, if you – originating from a naturally wild olive tree, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree – how much more will these natural [branches] be grafted into their own olive tree. 688

688

How much more will these natural [branches] be grafted into their own olive tree: From some aspects there is little difference between Judaism and Christianity – the same moral and ethical code, the same Scriptural roots, similar doctrines on some matters. God is able to engraft a Jew back into the New Israel. (2 Corinthians 3:15, 16)

Romans 11:25-32 – Mercy Extended to All

RO11:25 For I write you, brothers – that you be not ignorant of this mystery, 689 so that you do not become wise in your own [eyes] 690 – that a callousness has happened in part to the [nation] of Israel 691 until that time the entire complement of the non-Jews comes in. 692

689

That you be not ignorant of this mystery: Or, KJV: for I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery; TCN: the truth, hitherto hidden; MOF: secret; RHM: sacred secret; WMS: uncovered secret; PME: secret plan. See the notes on Ephesians 3:5 and the mystery of Jews and non-Jews becoming joint-heirs with Christ. Also compare notes on Romans 16:25.

690

You do not become wise in your own [eyes]: Or, KJV: wise in your own conceits; RHM: presumptuous; GDS: thinking too well of yourselves; TAY: feel proud. This is the main point Paul has been dealing with: the attitude of the non-Jews toward the Jews and the boastful arrogance it may expose. See notes on Romans 12:3. Paul has returned to the plural YOU and addresses himself to the non-Jews in Rome.

691

A callousness has happened in part to the [nation] of Israel: Or, KJV: blindness; ASV: a hardening; MOF: a partial insensibility; WEY: partial blindness; WMS: temporary insensibility; LAM: blindness of heart has to some degree befallen Israel. In harmony with the prophecy of Psalm 118:22 and Isaiah 53:1+ Israel as a nation rejected their Messiah. On “callousness” compare notes on Romans 7:24 where Paul speaks for Israel. See notes on Romans 11:7. (2 Corinthians 3:14-17) Individual Jews would continue to accept the Messiah and become Christian disciples.

692

Until that time the entire complement of the non-Jews comes in: Or, KJV: until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in; RHM: full measure of; CON: full body of WEY: great mass; RSV: full number. Non-Jews will continue to flock to Christ and the Church until the door to the wedding feast is shut. (See notes on Matthew 22:2-14; 25:1-15) By that time all the Jews and non-Jews who will become part of the Bride of the Lamb, the heavenly New Jerusalem will reach its full complement or, “fullness.” On fullness see notes on Romans 11:12.

RO11:26 And, so, all Israel will be saved, 693 just as it has been written, 694 “A Deliverer will come from Zion. 695 He will cast out any irreverence from Jacob. 696

693

All Israel will be saved: What may Paul mean? There are a number of views. He may refer to that true “Jew” of Romans 2:28, 29, or real “Israel” of Romans 9:6, 7. (Compare also Galatians 3:29 and Galatians 6:16.) That is, the Church, the New Israel of God, that spiritual nation of 1 Peter 2:9 composed on true Jews, both Jews and non-Jews. Or, he made allude back to the point made in Romans 11:15, or the resurrection of all the Hebrew stock to judgment before Christ’s throne. (Acts 24:15; Revelation 20:12-14) The Church must be perfected before all the ancient servants of God are raised to life. (Hebrews 11:13, 39, 40; Revelation 20:4, 6; 1 Corinthians 15:23, 24) In this manner “all Israel will be saved” – that is, all those “righteous” among the Hebrew stock. (See notes on Romans 2:12-16.)

694	It has been written: Paul now quotes Isaiah 59:20, 21. Paul has quoted Isaiah 59:7, 8 at Romans 3:15-17. (Isaiah 27:9)

695

A Deliverer will come from Zion: Likely this “Deliverer” is in Messianic representation by Jesus Christ. Psalm 2:6 shows him enthroned in Zion since his ascension in 33 CE. (See Paul’s quote of Psalm 2:7 at Acts 13:33.) The use of Zion occurs in Matthew 21:5 (see notes); John 12:15; see notes on Romans 9:33; Hebrews 12:22; 1 Peter 2:6; Revelation 14:4. This may refer to Christ’s coming as Messiah to the Jews beginning 29 CE; and/or, it may refer to the Day of Judgment when “all Israel” is raised to life and their judgment before Messiah. (See notes on Matthew 19:28; Luke 22:30)

696

He will cast out any irreverence from Jacob: Or, KJV: turn away ungodliness; TCN: banish; WEY: remove all. Jacob means Israel. The reason Yehowah rejected Israel in the sixth century BCE is explained in Isaiah 59:2-16. How does the Deliverer “cast out” all ungodliness from Israel? At the least, surely, this will be done at the Judgment Day Paul has referenced earlier in Romans 2:12-16. On Judgment Day, when Israel is raised with Sodom, the Queen of Sheba, and the people of Nineveh, those who were habitually vile among the Hebrews will be “cast out.” (Compare a similar expression in the notes on Matthew 13:50) Note also John 15:6, “Anyone who does not remain in me will be cast out as a branch and becomes dried up. People will collect those branches and hurl them into a burning fire.” The language here is parallel to Matthew 13:50 in the sense of judgment and being cast out. See how John 12:31 how judgment is associated with being “cast out.”

RO11:27 And this is My covenant to them 697 when I take away their sins.” 698 [Isaiah 59:20, 21]

697

This is My covenant to them: Or, GDS: my agreement with them. It may mean, “this is my promise to them” in this matter of casting out of Israel any ungodliness. There is a possibility here of an allusion to Jeremiah 31:31-35. Either way, the Jacob mentioned is a cleansed Israel, rid of all those who were ungodly in the history of the Hebrew stock. If Jacob here means spiritual Israel, that is, the Church (Galatians 6:16), then this may be a reference to Jeremiah 31:31-35 (see cross references to Hebrews) and the justification of the members of Christ’s Body.

698

When I take away their sins: The reading in Isaiah 59:20 reads from the Hebrew Text, “He shall come as a redeemer to Zion, to those in Jacob who turn back from sin.” (JPS) And from the Greek Text, “The deliverer shall come for Zion’s sake, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob.” (LXX) Based on the Hebrew the Deliverer will assist only those who turn from sin. (Isaiah 27:9) Note the ‘casting away’ at Romans 11:15.

RO11:28 Regarding the Gospel [the Jews] are enemies to your benefit, 699 but regarding the choosing, [the Jews are] beloved because of the [Hebrew] forefathers. 700

699

Regarding the Gospel [the Jews] are enemies to your benefit: Or, KJV: as concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes; MOF: which is to your advantage; GDS: on your account; KNX: to make room for you. This was explained at Romans 11:12, 15 – ‘the casting away of Israel means reconciliation for the world.’

700

Regarding the choosing, [the Jews are] beloved because of the [Hebrew] forefathers: Or, KJV: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers’ sakes; TCN: from the stand-point of God’s selection, they are dear to him on account of the Patriarchs; KNX: but in his elective purpose he still welcomes them, for the sake of their fathers. See Deuteronomy 10:15. Fleshly Israel has not been rejected absolutely as Paul pointed to himself as an example of one delivered. Out of regard for His promises to the ancient Hebrews repentant Jews are beloved of God.

RO11:29 Because, God will not change His mind 701 regarding His charitable gifts and His invitation. 702

701	God will not change His mind: Or, KJV are without repentance; CON: no change of purpose; GDS: God does not change his mind; LAM: does not withdraw; RSV: are irrevocable. (Numbers 23:19)

702	Regarding His charitable gifts and His invitation: Or, KJV: the gifts and calling; GDS: he gives his blessings or sends his call. Again the parable of the wedding invitation can be compared here at Matthew 22:2-14.

RO11:30 For, just as you [non-Jews] were once disobedient 703 to The God – but now you have received mercy because of [Jewish] disobedience 704 –

703	You [non-Jews] were once disobedient: See notes on non-Jewish disobedience at Ephesians 2:2, 12.

704	But now you have received mercy because of [Jewish] disobedience: A reference back to Romans 11:11.

RO11:31 so now, also, the disobedience of these [Jews] [has meant] mercy to you, so that now they may also receive mercy. 705

705

So that now they may also receive mercy: Or, KJV: through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. The Jews were given a special period of grace from the appearance of Messiah in 29 CE until 36 CE and the calling of the non-Jews. We may assume that during this seven-year period all attention of Christ and his disciples was on ministering to the Jews only. Once the Jews were given their complete opportunity, then evangelizing and disciple-making turned its attention to the non-Jews of all nations. However, at any time individual Jews could obtain mercy by accepting Jesus as the Messiah and their Master.

RO11:32 For The God has shut them out all together because of their disobedience 706 so that He may show mercy to all of these. 707

706

God has shut them out all together because of their disobedience: Or, KJV: concluded them; MOF: consigned; MON: locked up all in the prison of disobedience. As a group Israel has been shut out because of their disobedience even as Isaiah chapter 59 declared. Only a remnant of Jacob obtained membership into the New Israel of God. Compare notes on Romans 3:9.

707	So that He may show mercy to all of these: Or, KJV: that he might have mercy upon all. Likely he means mercy to both Jews and non-Jews; or, possibly, the non-Jews.

Romans 11:33-36 – The Depths of God’s Wisdom

RO11:33 O, the depth of God’s riches, knowledge and wisdom! 708 Unsearchable are His judgments 709 and untraceable His ways! 710

708

O, the depth of God’s riches, knowledge and wisdom: Or, MOF: what fathomless depth lies in the wisdom and knowledge of God; GDS: how inexhaustible God’s resources, wisdom, and knowledge are; PME: frankly, I stand amazed at the unfathomable complexity of God’s wisdom and God’s knowledge. Paul reaches a crescendo now in praise of The God who has purposed all of this from the beginning. On “riches” see notes on Romans 2:4 and Romans 9:23. (Psalm 139:6) On “wisdom” see 1 Corinthians 1:22, 30; 2:7; see notes on Ephesians 1:8, 17; 3:10. On “knowledge” see 2 Corinthians 4:6; 10:5; Colossians 2:2, 3.

709	Unsearchable are His judgments: Or, WEY: inscrutable; GDS: unfathomable. The word “judgment” is right at the center of Paul’s theme throughout Romans. See notes on Romans 2:2, 3, 5,16; Romans 3:3:4, 6, 7, 8; Romans 3:8; Romans 5:16; Romans 13:2; Romans 14:10. (Psalm 36:6)

710	Untraceable His ways: Or, KJV: past finding out; ASV: past tracing out; WEY: trackless his steps; KNX: undiscoverable; MOF: mysterious his methods.

RO11:34 For, “Who ever knew YHWH’s mind? 711 Or, who ever became His counselor?” 712 [Isaiah 40:13]

711

Who ever knew YHWH’s mind: Or, GDS: the Lord’s thoughts. The Greek is NOUN (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3563) in this quote of Isaiah 40:13 which draws on the Jewish Greek Septuagint. For the Hebrew Text uses RHUACH (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #7307), also rendered “spirit.” Paul does the same at 1 Corinthians 2:16. This proves that the “spirit of God” is the “mind of God.” In Hebrew, and likely the oldest Greek copies of the Septuagint, the Tetragram of YHWH occurs in Isaiah 40:13.

712	Who ever became His counselor: Or, GDS: or advised him. (Daniel 4:35)

RO11:35 Or, “Who ever has given to Him that it will be repaid to him?” 713 [Job 41:3]

713	Who ever has given to Him that it will be repaid to him: Or, GDS: who as advanced him anything; MON: so as to receive payment in return. This is a quote from Job 41:5. (Compare also Job 15:8) God is no indebted to anyone.

RO11:36 Because everything originated from Him and by Him. 714 And to Him be the glory throughout all future periods of time. 715 Amen!

714

Everything originated from Him and by Him: Or, KJV: for of him, and through him, and to him are all things; GDS: from him everything comes; and through him everything exists; KNX: all things find in him their origin, their impulse, the centre of their being; NEB: Source, Guide, and Goal of all. This includes His Son who originated from his Father. (1 Corinthians 8:6)

715	And to Him be the glory throughout all future periods of time: Or, KJV: for ever. Compare Galatians 1:5.

Summary of Chapter Eleven

Paul raises the next important question whether God rejected His People. The answer is ‘No!’ and he gives himself as an example. He then draws a parallel between Elijah and the 7,000 faithful Israelites with the present remnant of Israel of Christian disciples. This choosing by God is due to unmerited favor and not works.

Israel did not gain what it sought. Paul quotes Moses, Isaiah and David to show that God has cursed Israel as a group.

Paul asks another question whether Israel stumbled completely and absolutely. His answer is No. He almost gives a commentary on the Nazarene’s parable from Matthew 22:2+ – Israel’s failure in rejecting the Messiah opened up opportunities for non-Jews to gain heavenly salvation in the Church.

Paul now speaks to the non-Jews in his audience. He glories in his apostleship to the non-Jews and hopes it will provoke some Jews to jealousy. He writes of the final reception of Israel in the resurrection. He paints two metaphors: firstfruits and a root – both examples of Christ.

Paul addresses a prideful attitude on the part on his non-Jew to exult or boast over the Jews. He expanded his metaphor of the root into the Olive Tree of the New Israel of God. Though Jewish natural branches have been pruned off and non-Jewish wild branches grafted in. Only by conviction can any branch remain in the Tree. If God can graft in a wild olive branch how much easier for His great power to graft back in a branch from its own tree?

Speaking to the non-Jews Paul wants them realize the mystery of God’s dealing with the Jews. For the time Israel as a people have been put to sleep as it were until the complete company of non-Jews become part of the Olive Tree of the New Israel of God. He quotes Isaiah 59:20, 21 to show how a Deliverer will come to judge Jacob (Israel) and the ungodly cast out. He argues that both Jews and non-Jews will be shown mercy. The reason God has “shut up all Israel together” is so that mercy may be shown to the non-Jews.

Paul praises God for His wisdom and how unsearchable His judgments. No one knows the mind of God, nor is God indebted to anyone.

Review Questions on Chapter Eleven