Day 11
Today’s reading: Romans 9:1-33
Election of Grace
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Election of Grace 〰️
Reflections
The concept of predestination is widely debated, but in this chapter, Paul is not attempting to explain it in full, rather, he is highlighting God’s sovereign authority over His creation. He emphasizes that God, as the Creator, acts according to His own will, unconstrained by human actions.
Being called to God does not depend on one’s physical descent nor does it depend on works as illustrated by the election of Jacob over Esau even before they could do right or wrong. So now even on earth, God’s calling to our purpose depends solely on God’s faithfulness to His promise, His Son Jesus Christ. This is the big picture: Our purpose and calling depends solely on God’s faithfulness to His own plan, not on our works, desires or merits. This does not negate our responsibility but rather points to the mystery of God’s will and His overarching plan for redemption. To be chosen by God for our earthly assignment and to receive the promise of eternal life, we must believe in and align with His plan. Those who are called according to His promise are those who place their faith in Christ and walk in that calling.
Study Questions
According to Romans 9, what six privileges were given to the Israelites as God’s chosen people? Do these privileges extend to believers today? Why or why not?
How does this passage redefine what it means to be a true child of God?
What does Romans 9:22-24 teach about God’s patience with those destined for destruction? How does this passage balance God's wrath and His mercy?
What aspects of God’s character are revealed in this passage? Identify at least three
Highlight
“ “Those who were not my people I will call ‘my people,’ and her who was not beloved I will call ‘beloved.’”, “And in the very place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people,’ there they will be called ‘sons of the living God.’”.” Romans 9:25-26 ESV
