September 30, 2024 - Romans 9-11

From yesterday:  “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (8:1).  I cannot get away from how absolutely wonderful is this declaration.  No condemnation.  None.  Nada.  Tidak ada.  Jesus has taken the full brunt of my condemnation so that I get to go free.  That's just absolutely, undeniably, completely amazing good news!

Now, that which Paul himself has experienced – forgiveness of his sins and a right relationship with God and eternal life – he wants Israel to experience:  “For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh” (9:3).  The covenants are theirs.  And the promises.  And the Christ. And all other things.

Israel has a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge (10:2), and Paul’s “heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved” (10:11).  Furthermore, “there is no distinction between Jew and Greek . . . everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” 10:12,13).  A good thing to do today – pray for the salvation of Israel.

Nations of all the earth rejoice

before you, Lord, our sovereign King,

we serve with cheerful heart and voice.

The earth will echo songs we sing!

Lord, you are God, and you alone

give life and breath and being here;

we are your work, and not our own;

your sheep, your children, free of fear,

for you are good, divinely kind;

and great your grace, your mercy sure;

all peoples of the earth shall find

your truth is power that will endure.   –Isaac Watts (1740)