March 8th, Sunday: Romans 10 & 11

Rom 10

Why did Israel stumble over Christ, and reject Him?

That's what this chapter is all about.

Because they did not understand the kind of righteousness God wanted, or how to get it.

Like the Pharisees and many people today, they only thought of righteous works, and could not comprehend a righteousness that comes by faith only.

The missionary heart of Paul comes out in verses 14-17.

'Salvation is by faith. And faith comes by hearing the Word of God.' - So listen up!

But you know what? - Unbelievers and sinners including Israel cannot hear unless we tell them.

God needs people with beautiful feet to carry the Gospel to the lost.

Despite Paul's broken heart and God's outstretched hand, Israel did not believe.

But the Gentiles did believe and God saved them.

Listen, when you feel discouraged when you're witnessing, remember Paul.

Continue caring, continue praying and sharing the Good News.

Keep those feet beautiful as you present the Gospel!

Rom 11

The theology of Romans chapters 9-11 magnifies God's grace and extols His sovereignty.

Never lose the wonder of your salvation, or the greatness of God!

No matter how deep the valley, or difficult the battle, a vision of God's greatness puts joy into your heart, and strength into your soul.

God knows what He is doing, even if you do not fully understand it.

Trust Him.

There is a future for Israel – Paul is proof of that, and so is Israel's past history.

God has always had a believing remnant in Israel, no matter how dark the day.

When you become discouraged about the future of the church, and feel that you are the only faithful Christian left, just focus on God's greatness.

We cannot explain all the purposes and plans of God, but we can praise Him and worship Him for who He is.

And the end result of all Bible study is worship.

And the end result of all worship is service to the God we love.

It was the great preacher, Charles Spurgeon who wrote, 'Fate says the thing is and must be, so it is decreed. But the true doctrine is God has appointed this and that, not because that it must be, but because it is best that it should be. Faith is blind but the destiny of Scripture is full of eyes. Fate is stern and adamantine, and has no tears for human sorrow, but the arrangements of providence are kind and good.'