Part 5 – God’s Plan with Israel

Israel – Romans 11, the mystery and “all Israel”

Short explanation

Paul writes as a Jew about God’s way with His people. He strongly rejects the idea that God has rejected Israel. In this part the mystery described by Paul is unfolded. It becomes clear how God’s plan is at the same time profound, simple and deeply comforting, and how it shapes life today.

Then: a Jewish apostle about his people

Paul writes as a Pharisee, as an Israelite from the tribe of Benjamin, as someone who loves his people and knows their calling. He answers the question whether God has rejected His people with his strongest expression of denial: by no means.

He sketches a double movement. A partial hardening lies over Israel, but this is temporary. It lasts until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. No new tree is planted; the same olive tree remains. The root, the promises to the fathers, remains holy. The natural branches belong to this tree, the wild branches are grafted in by faith.

When Paul says that “all Israel” will be saved, this points to a future, collective turning of the people. He quotes Isaiah: the Deliverer will come from Zion and will turn away ungodliness from Jacob. This is covenant language, promise language, future hope rooted in God’s faithfulness.

Now: humility, expectation and compassion

For believers from the nations Paul gives clear instructions. Humility is necessary, pride is forbidden. The root supports the branch, not the other way around. Sharing in Israel’s spiritual riches requires an attitude of gratitude and reverence.

This attitude is sustained by expectation. The church does not live detached from Israel, but looks forward to the restoration that God has promised. The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. This makes the congregation a praying people. Compassion for the Jewish people, prayer for their renewal and loving nearness belong to a life nourished by the olive tree.

Double fulfillment

Then: the Gospel spreads among the nations, while a Jewish remnant believes. This movement began in the first century and continues to this day.

Now: the view goes further ahead. In God’s time Israel will, as a nation, return to the Messiah. Paul calls this life from the dead, a spiritual awakening that will have worldwide impact. The same Deliverer from Zion who now calls individual Jews and Gentiles will then turn a people around in one moment.

Summary