How should understanding Romans 9:4 influence our view of God's chosen people today? Israel’s Enduring Privileges in Romans 9:4 “the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the giving of the Law, the temple worship, and the promises.” (Romans 9:4) • Adoption as sons – God chose Israel to bear His name (Exodus 4:22). • Divine glory – His manifest presence rested among them (Exodus 40:34–35). • Covenants – Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, New (Jeremiah 31:31–34). • Giving of the Law – Sinai’s revelation distinguished Israel from the nations (Deuteronomy 4:7–8). • Temple worship – the earthly meeting place with God (1 Kings 8:10–11). • Promises – a Messiah, a land, and final restoration (Isaiah 11:11–12). Why Paul Rehearses These Blessings • To prove God’s faithfulness: if He kept covenant with Israel, believers can trust every promise (Romans 3:1–4). • To humble Gentile readers: salvation came “first to the Jew” (Romans 1:16). • To set up Romans 9–11, showing Israel’s story is not over (Romans 11:1–2). Recognizing Israel’s Ongoing Significance Today • God’s call is “irrevocable” (Romans 11:29). The privileges listed in 9:4 remain rooted in His unchanging character. • The Abrahamic blessing still stands: “I will bless those who bless you” (Genesis 12:3). • Gentile believers are grafted in, not replacing Israel but joining the same olive tree (Romans 11:17–18). • Israel’s future national turning to Christ is promised (Zechariah 12:10; Romans 11:26–27). Practical Attitudes Shaped by Romans 9:4 • Honor: Speak and act toward Jewish people with gratitude, never arrogance (Romans 11:20). • Solidarity: Stand against anti-Semitism; cherish the spiritual debt we owe Israel (John 4:22). • Prayerful Hope: Anticipate God’s fulfillment of every covenant promise (Ezekiel 36:24–28). • Gospel Witness: Share Messiah Jesus lovingly, knowing it is “the power of God for salvation” to Jew first, then Gentile (Romans 1:16). |
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