What is the meaning of Romans 11:35? Who has first given to God - Paul echoes Job 41:11 — “Who has given to Me that I should repay him?”—reminding us that every created thing already belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1). - Since God is the Creator (Genesis 1:1) and sustainer of all life (Colossians 1:16-17), no creature can ever place Him in a position of obligation. - Psalm 50:10-12 tells us He owns “every beast of the forest… the cattle on a thousand hills,” underscoring that even our finest gifts originate in His prior generosity. - Acts 17:24-25 reinforces this truth: “He is not served by human hands, as if He needed anything.” - Therefore, any act of worship, service, or giving on our part is always a response to grace already received (1 Chronicles 29:14). that God should repay him? - The phrase drives home God’s absolute independence: if no one can give to Him first, no one can rightfully expect repayment on human terms. - Grace is by definition undeserved (Ephesians 2:8-9). Salvation, blessings, and spiritual gifts flow from God’s mercy, not from a debt He owes (Titus 3:5-7). - James 1:17 reminds us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above,” highlighting that God remains the sole Source, never the debtor. - This truth eliminates boasting (Romans 3:27) and fuels humble gratitude, leading believers to serve not for reward but out of love and awe (2 Corinthians 9:15). summary Romans 11:35 teaches that God is never indebted to anyone. Because He already owns and supplies all things, any good we experience is a gift of grace, not payment for services rendered. This reality humbles pride, silences boasting, and inspires wholehearted worship of the One from whom, through whom, and to whom are all things (Romans 11:36). |
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