This morning, as I read Romans 11:1-10, some of these questions were answered for me. Paul states very clearly that by no means has God rejected his people. Just as there was a remnant in the time of Elijah when apostasy was rampant, so a remnant of Israel remains during Paul's time. But there is a catch. This remnant was not chosen by race, genealogy, or special privilege. This remnant was chosen by grace.
"But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace." (Romans 11:6; ESV)Israel had been seeking favor and redemption from God through works of the law. But they failed to obtain this redemption. Why? Because only the elect obtained it while the rest were hardened by God (Romans 11:7). This is a huge statement that those who believe in a special plan and privilege for Israel are missing. God chose some while he hardened others. How do we know it was God who hardened them instead of hardening their own hearts?
"God game them a spirit of stupor, eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear, down to this very day." (Romans 11:8; ESV)Election is a difficult doctrine to grasp. I've only been on this election boat for four or five years and I still have a lot to learn. But hopefully, through the grace of God and his using those around me to challenge me, I will only continue to understand more and more of this wonderful doctrine of grace. My hope and prayer is that all of us who are children of God will dig deep into the realities of our Savior though they may be difficult to grasp. The Spirit of God will continue to teach us and reveal his truth to us throughout the time we live here on this earth.
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