I have notes on Romans 11 today.

For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.

Romans 11:29 (NIV)

If God has called you to be his, then you are his. The call and acceptance of salvation is a gift that cannot be revoked. God is not a man or son of man that he would change his mind (cf. Numbers 23:19). No one can come to God unless he calls them (cf. John 6:65). Although Paul was referring to Israel’s salvation, this verse applies to us as members of the New Covenant.

For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.

Romans 11:32 (NIV)

This verse reminds me of something Paul said earlier in Romans.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Romans 3:23 (NIV)

Paul isn’t talking about universalism in Romans 3:23 nor in Romans 11:32. He started talking about the Israelites and his distress over them in Romans 9, and here in Romans 11:32, he summed up what he’s said about the Gentiles and the Jews. In summary, the Jews had to deny Christ so that the Gentiles could be saved, and after the “full number of the Gentiles [have] come in,” Israel will be saved (Romans 11:25 NIV). These statements about salvation are corporate, not individualistic statements that refer to God’s plan for salvation as seen through history. First, there was a time when the Gentiles had no part in God, although we know from the Old Testament that there were some Gentiles who turned to God (eg. Ninevites). During this time, the Jews followed the Lord until they as a nation turned away from the Messiah so that the Gentiles could come in. Once the Gentiles are in, the Jewish nation will turn back to the Messiah.

This is why it’s important to read verses in context. Otherwise, ideas like universalism might appear to be supported by the text, and it’s easy to miss the wonder of God’s plan. Think about it. Salvation was first given to the Jews, who then turned away from it so that it could be given to the Gentiles. Then, salvation will once again return to the Jews. In this way, everyone who accepts the gift of salvation will be saved. Hence, Paul’s praise at the end of Romans 11.

Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them? For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.

Romans 11:33-36 (NIV)

Do you know God? God knows you, and he loves you. He sees you as significant because you are. No one is insignificant to Him. He’s with you today, and he wants you to know him. Jesus died for your sins and mine so we could be free of guilt, be free from death, and live eternally with him. Eternal salvation is just a prayer away.

Pray this prayer with me to accept the gift of salvation today:

Lord Jesus, forgive me for all my sins. I repent from my ways. Wash me in your blood and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I believe that you died on the cross, were buried, and on the third day, God the Father raised you from the dead. Lord Jesus, I open the door to my heart, and I receive you into my heart as my Lord and personal Savior. Amen.

If you prayed that prayer, then congratulations! You are on the first step of a brand new life. Allow me to be the first to welcome you to my family, the family of God. There are abundant resources available online for new Christians. You can visit here for more information on what to do next. You can also leave me a comment, and I’ll do my best to help you on the next step of this incredible journey.

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