Paul has now vindicated God from the charge of unfaithfulness to his people. Most Jews, however, are guilty of rejecting God and suffer the consequence. Is this “stumbling” for their ultimate rejection? Paul now goes on to show that God has ordered history so that, through the ultimate salvation of ethnic Israel, he would bring maximum glory to himself.
The following excerpt describes the significance of history to the ancient Hebrews. While the material comes from a secular analysis, I found it helpful. “At this point there emerges one of the notable features of Israelite literature and thought, its treatment of history. A moment’s consideration shows that history is the theme which permeates the Old Testament almost throughout…”
The church of the fourth century faced a crisis of Christology. Who exactly is Jesus, and what is his relationship with God? No one fought harder for the truth than Athanasius, bishop of Alexandria in Egypt. His story is a testament to his commitment to truth: exiled five times, in danger of his life, and constantly harassed by enemies, Athanasius upheld orthodoxy through it all.
One of the most stunning images that I’ve ever seen was this hourglass. I came across it randomly online, and I was immediately intrigued. I read all the text, and it didn’t take long before I realized its seriousness and significance.
Mortals live away their lives, consumed with routine, unimpressed by God. This was the damning fault of the Judahites, that they were ignorant of their own God! As Isaiah confronts them with their faults, he also presents God to them in a new light, as the great and all-transcendent Deity.
The Pharisee loves the study of the Word of God; the godly man loves the God revealed through the Word. The Pharisee enjoys the Word; the godly man goes further and trembles at the Word. The Pharisee studies the Word…
It matters not how desperate the situation looks; God has not rejected his people. Even when vast numbers seem to reject their Creator, God is preserving a group – a remnant – whom He guides to glory. God has not rejected his people. Rather, the remnant proves that God remains gracious.
We often read the crucifixion scenes in the Gospels simply as historical accounts of Jesus’ death—and they certainly serve that purpose. But on a deeper level, these narratives reveal the cost of grace and the staggering sacrifice that Christ offered.
Our own plans and efforts are temporary and will inevitably fade. We should reflect on this truth every time we lose something, every time something breaks, and every time we fail to accomplish what we intend. Let each such moment serve as a reminder that all things in this world are temporary.
The idea for such a list comes from the time of Jonathan Edwards and Asahel Nettleton, when it was common for theological students to study and answer questions. A student who can thoughtfully address each of these questions will be well prepared to understand and teach the book of Romans.
