How can we reconcile God's love and judgment in Romans 11:28? Anchoring in the Text Romans 11:28: “Regarding the gospel, they are enemies on your account; but regarding election, they are loved on account of the patriarchs.” What Paul Holds Together • “Enemies” = under present judgment for rejecting the gospel • “Loved” = still objects of covenant affection because of God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:1-3; 17:7) • Both statements are simultaneously true—God’s character can hold them without contradiction. Tracing the Two Strands • Judgment strand – Romans 1:18—wrath revealed against ungodliness – Romans 11:20—“They were broken off because of unbelief” • Love strand – Romans 11:29—“God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable.” – Hosea 3:1—love persists even when covenant partner is unfaithful Why God Must Judge • His holiness and justice demand a response to sin (Psalm 89:14; Exodus 34:7). • Judgment protects the worth of His glory and the good of His creation. Why God Delights to Love • “God is love” (1 John 4:8). • Covenant promises flow from His unchanging character (Numbers 23:19). • Love drives redemptive history (John 3:16). Where Love and Judgment Meet • The Cross—Romans 5:8 shows love; Isaiah 53:5 shows judgment poured out on a Substitute. • For Israel, temporary hardening (Romans 11:25) is judgment that opens a doorway for Gentiles and sets the stage for future mercy (11:26-27). • For all people, faith in Christ satisfies judgment and ushers us into love (Romans 3:25-26). Living in the Tension Today • Take both kindness and severity seriously (Romans 11:22). • Pray for and proclaim the gospel to the “enemies”; God’s plan still includes mercy. • Rest in the assurance that His covenant faithfulness cannot fail—even when discipline is severe. Key Takeaways 1. God’s love and judgment are not rivals but partners flowing from the same holy heart. 2. Present rejection invites real judgment, yet covenant promises guarantee future restoration for Israel. 3. The cross shows God’s way of reconciling the two for anyone—Jew or Gentile—who believes. |
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