Romans 11:7–10
Have you ever wondered about the complex connection between works and grace in Israel’s history?
It’s a bit like a puzzle — works representing earthly Israel and grace symbolizing the true Israel. How do these contradictions play out?
In the book of Romans, it’s highlighted that while Israel sought something, they couldn’t obtain it. A selected few, the remnant, obtained it, but others became hardened. This hardening led them to a state of spiritual slumber, as if the whole nation was asleep.
“What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened; just as it is written: ‘God gave them a spirit of stupor, Eyes to see not and ears to hear not, Down to this very day.’ And David says, ‘May their table become a snare and a trap, And a stumbling block and a retribution to them. May their eyes be darkened to see Not, And bend their backs continually.’” (Romans 11:7–10).
Paul, doesn’t conjure this up; it’s rooted in teachings from the Old Testament, dating back to Psalms. It’s like a feast laid out before them, meant for good, but it becomes a stumbling block instead.
Throughout the Old Testament, there’s a continuous reference to a Savior to come, yet many never grasp the mercy offered through Christ.
Now, reflect on today. We have the Bible, countless privileges, and signs pointing to a loving God. Will everyone embrace Christ? Paul is explicit — not everyone will.
So, what can we learn? Understanding the tension between seeking and obtaining, between works and grace, helps us comprehend the broader context of salvation.
It’s a reminder that despite opportunities, some may never accept the gift of grace. Therefore, our role becomes clear — to embrace this gift of salvation ourselves and extend grace and understanding to others, just as it has been extended to us.
For a devotion on Romans 11:12–13 click here.
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