December 18, 2008

Israel Has Not Been Cast Away

“I say then, has God cast away His people? Certainly not! For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, [of] the tribe of Benjamin. God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel, saying, "LORD, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life"? But what does the divine response say to him? "I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” (Romans 11:1-5 NKJV)

Paul, in the previous passage (Rom. 10:12-21), made a point that salvation is by faith. This is consistent with God’s promise to Israel: In Isaac, your seed shall be called (Gen. 21:12, Rom. 9:7, Heb. 11:18).

Now, Paul proves that God indeed is keeping His promise. The Jews saw the emphasis moving away from Israel as a nation as God abandoning His people. However, it is clear God has not cast away Israel for Paul is living proof. He was an Israelite and he was saved. Paul also points out how this thinking is amiss by holding up Elijah as an example.

Elijah came to a point in his life when he questioned the faithfulness of God. The divine answer to him was, "I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." This is the situation today December 18, 2008. God has a remnant of Israelites and will have until His second coming.

Therefore, we can press on in faith knowing God is faithful. At times, it may seem like God is not doing anything. However, you can be sure He is accomplishing exactly what He wills.

Continue to witness, walk by faith, practice holiness, study the Word, pray, and keep looking forward to the day of His return. Amen.