How does this verse connect to God's sovereignty in Romans 9:15-16? Key Verses Exodus 33:19: “I will cause all My goodness to pass before you,” the LORD replied, “and I will proclaim My name—the LORD—in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. Romans 9:15-16: “For He says to Moses: ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.’ So then, it does not depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.” Setting the Stage: Exodus 33 • Moses, fresh from Israel’s golden-calf rebellion (Exodus 32), pleads for God’s continued presence. • God answers by revealing His name and nature—goodness, mercy, compassion—rooted solely in His own character, not human merit. How Paul Draws the Connection • Paul cites Exodus 33:19 word-for-word to demonstrate that God’s saving actions flow from His sovereign freedom. • In Romans 9:15-16, Paul widens the scope: what was true for Israel in Moses’ day is true for Jew and Gentile alike in salvation history. Key Truths About God’s Sovereignty Highlighted • God’s mercy is self-determined – Isaiah 46:10: “My purpose will stand, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure.” – Psalm 115:3: “Our God is in the heavens; He does as He pleases.” • Human effort cannot obligate God – Romans 9:16 underscores that salvation is neither “desire” nor “effort” driven. • Mercy and justice meet in God’s character – Exodus 34:6-7 shows the same balance: mercy abounding, yet justice upheld. • Sovereignty fuels worship, not fatalism – Daniel 4:35: “He does as He pleases…none can restrain His hand or say to Him, ‘What have You done?’” • Sovereignty secures salvation’s certainty – Ephesians 1:11: we are “predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will.” Living It Out • Rest: God’s mercy is not earned; it is received. • Humility: No boasting—salvation is God-initiated from start to finish. • Confidence: The God who freely shows compassion also faithfully keeps every promise. |
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