March 15: FAITH: IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16

The gospel of Christ is a revelation of God’s character to the whole world. Why does Paul say for the Jew first and also for the Greek? If it is true that God shows no partiality (Acts 10:34), what is behind Paul’s statement? The Hebrew nation was chosen by God through whom His purpose was to bless all of humanity: to them were committed the oracles of God (Romans 3:2). Although as a nation they stumbled, there has consistently been a faithful remnant.

When the prophet Elijah felt alone, this divine response came: “I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” Paul added: Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace. (Romans 11:4-5, see also 1 Kings 19:18)  

In addressing the Romans, Paul was not throwing his fellow Jews under the bus! He was deeply grieved over the majority’s rejection of Christ (Romans 9:3). Nevertheless, he continued faithfully in his ministry to the Gentiles. In fact, his hope for his unbelieving Jewish brethren, [his] countrymen according to the flesh never gave way to despair, pointing out in the olive tree metaphor: if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again (11:23). As Paul continues, he builds upon the divine precept that God is in control: all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (8:28). The heavenly nation of true Israelites will ultimately consist of all who have a trusting relationship with the Savior. For I do not desire, brethren (meaning the Romans who had become believers in Christ), that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so, all Israel will be saved (11:25-26a).

There is nothing – not a single facet – of the gospel of Christ for anyone to be ashamed of, provided they unreservedly trust Him. Paul’s wording is peculiar and unique here. If any part of the Good News of Christ has the effect of making someone ashamed, then a misunderstanding is afoot. The solution is to study it out and clear up the confusion. This is what it means to continue in the goodness of God.

Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. Romans 11:22