Romans 11:28-29 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the father's sakes.… I. ITS NATURE. 1. Enemies for your sakes. 2. Beloved for the fathers' sakes. II. ITS IMMUTABLE CHARACTER 1. Depends on the immutable character of God. 2. And His unchangeable purpose. (J. Lyth, D.D.) Beloved for the fathers' sakes. — God loves when compelled to punish, and His affection for His ancient people should teach us to love them too. "For the fathers' sakes" is God's own reason for His love (Deuteronomy 7:7, 8). There was nothing in Israel to attract it, for they were obstinate transgressors from the womb (Isaiah 48:4, 8), and a disobedient and gainsaying people (Romans 10:21). So God loves sinners in Christ for His Son's sake. God's love to the fathers remembered in behalf of the children (Leviticus 26:42). Blessing of godly ancestors. Children loved for their parents' sakes. How privileged are the offspring of a godly stock; how great their responsibility; how deep should be their gratitude! (T. Robinson, D.D.) For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. — Without change of mind on God's part; subject to no regret or change of purpose (2 Corinthians 7:10; Hebrews 12:17). God gives without variableness or shadow of turning (James 1:17). His gift to Israel only suspended or withdrawn for a season. He has not repented of calling Abraham and his seed as His people, nor regretted the promises made to the fathers. Man's conduct may change God's manner but not His mind. God's dealings may vary, but not His determinings; His providence may alter, but not His purposes. The Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent (1 Samuel 15:29). God's unchangeableness the ground of Israel's safety (Malachi 3:6). God will not cast away His people (Deuteronomy 4:31; 1 Samuel 12:22). Israel is not to be permanently deprived of what God has promised them. (T. Robinson, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes. |
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