What is the meaning of Romans 10:21? But as for Israel he says • Paul turns from the Gentiles’ openness (Romans 10:20) to Israel’s resistance, highlighting a contrast already seen in Romans 9 – 11. • The “he” is Isaiah, whose words God inspired (Isaiah 65:2); by quoting the prophet, Paul shows that Israel’s stubbornness was foreseen. • Cross references: Romans 9:30-33 shows Israel stumbled over Christ; Acts 28:24-27 recounts Isaiah’s prophecy of hardened hearts fulfilled among Jews in Rome. All day long I have held out My hands • The picture is of God continually extending grace, not briefly or grudgingly but “all day long,” emphasizing persistent mercy (2 Peter 3:9). • God’s open hands echo Jesus’ lament, “How often I have longed to gather your children” (Matthew 23:37; Luke 13:34), revealing the same loving invitation across both Testaments. • This posture reminds us of God’s patient appeals through prophets (2 Chronicles 36:15-16) and through the gospel itself (Romans 10:14-15). To a disobedient and obstinate people • Israel’s problem was not lack of revelation but refusal to heed it (Jeremiah 7:25-26). Disobedient: they would not submit to God’s righteousness in Christ (Romans 10:3-4). Obstinate: they hardened their hearts, preferring self-made religion (Hebrews 3:7-12). • Yet even their resistance serves God’s larger plan; their stumbling opens the door of salvation to the Gentiles, meant to provoke Israel to jealousy and eventual faith (Romans 11:11-12, 25-27). • The verse therefore warns against presuming on heritage while encouraging humble response to God’s gracious call. summary Romans 10:21 portrays God as tirelessly inviting Israel to believe, stretching out His hands in steadfast love, while Israel remains willfully resistant. The verse underscores God’s patience, Israel’s accountability, and the wider redemptive purpose that Israel’s refusal would lead to Gentile inclusion and, ultimately, Israel’s future restoration. |
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