Understanding Romans 11:28

Verse: Romans 11:28 - "As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes."

Overview of Meaning

Romans 11:28 offers profound insights into the relationship between the Jewish people and God's redemptive plan. The verse emphasizes two key aspects: their current stance regarding the gospel and their long-standing covenantal significance.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry explains that the Jewish people, in their rejection of the gospel during the time of Paul, appear as enemies to the Christians. However, this is not a permanent state. Their historical and spiritual heritage remains valuable, as God has everlasting promises to them.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes that while the Jews stand as opponents to the Christian faith at present, they have not lost their chosen status in God's eyes due to their ancestry. God’s love towards them stems from their forefathers, highlighting a continuity of divine purpose.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke adds that the term "enemies" should be understood in the context of their exclusion from the blessings of the gospel. He points out that God's election is unchangeable and grounded in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Cross-References to Romans 11:28

This verse connects with several others throughout the Scriptures that illuminate its themes:

• Matthew 5:43-48: Jesus teaches on love for enemies, which parallels the idea of the Jewish people being seen as enemies for the sake of the gospel.
• John 1:11: "He came unto his own, and his own received him not." This reflects the rejection of Christ by the Jewish nation.
• Romans 9:3-5: Paul expresses his sorrow over his people’s rejection while affirming their privileges in the covenant.
• Romans 10:1: Paul’s heart's desire and prayer is for Israel’s salvation, showing his undying love for his people.
• Galatians 3:28-29: Highlights the equality of both Jews and Gentiles in Christ while still recognizing Israel’s unique position in God's plan.
• Hebrews 11:39-40: Discusses the faithfulness of the patriarchs and the future hope for those who believed.
• Isaiah 49:5-6: God’s calling of Israel in servitude reflects His purpose for Israel as a light to the nations, which connects to the themes of election.

Thematic Connections

The verse invites deeper reflection on the themes of:

• Election: God’s choice of Israel and its implications for salvation.
• Covenant Faithfulness: How God maintains His promises through generations.
• Redemption: The unfolding plan of salvation through Christ.

Conclusion

The exploration of Romans 11:28 reveals a complex relationship between the covenant people and the New Covenant church. It serves as a reminder of God's enduring promises and the hope of eventual reconciliation. Understanding this scripture encourages believers to appreciate the depth of God's redemptive history, fostering an appreciation for both the Old and New Testaments through connections and cross-referencing.

Further Study

Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing can enhance understanding of Romans 11:28. Resources such as a Bible concordance or cross-reference Bible study guides can facilitate identifying relationships between verses, ultimately enriching one’s scriptural knowledge.

Explore these connections further to deepen your understanding of how various themes interlink across scripture, and to appreciate the complexities of God's plan for both Jews and Gentiles.