Romans 3:1–2: What advantage then has the Jew, or what is the profit of circumcision?
Much in every way! Chiefly because to them were committed the oracles of God.
It looks as if Paul is in danger of erasing a distinction which God has made. The question is, if Jew and Gentile are on the same footing before God, what then is the supposed advantage of the Jew and what good is circumcision? 1
Paul is making it clear that God not only gave to the nation Israel the oracles of God—they were the ones who communicated the Word of God—but in the Word of God was something special for them. God is not through with the nation Israel. I always test a theologian at that particular point: Does God have a future for Israel? My friend, if God doesn’t have a future for Israel, I don’t think He has a future for you either. 2
Application
- When you hear people speak negatively about the Nation of Israel, remind them that our Savior is Jewish and He is returning to the homeland soon.
- When you hear people speak negatively about the Bible, ask them how many books are in the Bible and what group of people were used by God to write it.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for giving us Your Word and preserving Your Word throughout all of human history.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 1-8) (electronic ed., Vol. 42). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
2. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 1-8) (electronic ed., Vol. 42). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.