Romans 9:3–5: For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen.
It is remarkable how Paul moved from the joy of Romans 8 into the sorrow and burden of Romans 9. When he looked at Christ, he rejoiced; but when he looked at the lost people of Israel, he wept. Like Moses (Ex. 32:30–35), he was willing to be cursed and separated from Christ if it would mean the salvation of Israel. What a man this Paul was! He was willing to stay out of heaven for the sake of the saved (Phil. 1:22–24), and willing to go to hell for the sake of the lost. 1
Application
- Notice the six blessings God gave to Israel. (Adoption -> Promises)
- Since God is called: “The God of Israel” – we should be very careful about how we speak about Jewish people and the Nation of Israel. Jesus Christ is returning to earth and His feet will be on the soil in Israel. That is why there is so much hostility today. We must be very close to His return, to His fulfilled promises.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for being the King of the Jews. You are my Savior, my Lord, and my coming King.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
