Romans 11: A Remnant Chosen by Grace

Romans 11 Summary

A Remnant Chosen by Grace

1 I ask then, did God reject His people? Certainly not! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God did not reject His people, whom He foreknew. Do you not know what the Scripture says about Elijah, how he appealed to God against Israel: 3 “Lord, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars. I am the only one left, and they are seeking my life as well”a ?

4 And what was the divine reply to him? “I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.”b

5 In the same way, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. 6 And if it is by grace, then it is no longer by works. Otherwise, grace would no longer be grace.c

7 What then? What Israel was seeking, it failed to obtain, but the elect did. The others were hardened, 8 as it is written:

“God gave them a spirit of stupor,

eyes that could not see,

and ears that could not hear,

to this very day.”d

9 And David says:

“May their table become a snare and a trap,

a stumbling block and a retribution to them.

10 May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see,

and their backs be bent forever.”e

The Ingrafting of the Gentiles

11 I ask then, did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery?f Certainly not! However, because of their trespass, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel jealous. 12 But if their trespass means riches for the world, and their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their fullness bring!

13 I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry 14 in the hope that I may provoke my own people to jealousy and save some of them. 15 For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? 16 If the first part of the dough is holy, so is the whole batch; if the root is holy, so are the branches.

17 Now if some branches have been broken off, and you, a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others to share in the nourishment of the olive root, 18 do not boast over those branches. If you do, remember this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you.

19 You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” 20 That is correct: They were broken off because of unbelief, but you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but be afraid. 21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, He will certainly notg spare you either.

22 Take notice, therefore, of the kindness and severity of God: severity to those who fell, but kindness to you, if you continue in His kindness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. 23 And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24 For if you were cut from a wild olive tree, and contrary to nature were grafted into one that is cultivated, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!

All Israel Will Be Saved

25 I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you will not be conceited: A hardening in part has come to Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. 26 And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written:

“The Deliverer will come from Zion;

He will remove godlessness from Jacob.

27 And this is My covenant with them

when I take away their sins.”h

28 Regarding the gospel, they are enemies on your account; but regarding election, they are loved on account of the patriarchs. 29 For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable.

30 Just as you who formerly disobeyed God have now received mercy through their disobedience, 31 so they too have now disobeyed, in order that they too may now receive mercy through the mercy shown to you.i 32 For God has consigned everyone to disobedience so that He may have mercy on everyone.

A Hymn of Praise
(Isaiah 40:9–31)

33 O, the depth of the riches

of the wisdom and knowledge of God!

How unsearchable are His judgments,

and untraceable His ways!

34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord?

Or who has been His counselor?”j

35 “Who has first given to God,

that God should repay him?”k

36 For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.

To Him be the glory forever! Amen.

Isaiah 59:20-21
This prophecy is echoed in Romans 11:26-27, affirming God's covenant with Israel.

Ephesians 2:11-22
Explores the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ, similar to the themes in Romans 11.

Jeremiah 31:31-34
The promise of a new covenant with Israel, which is fulfilled in Christ. God's Faithfulness to Israel
Despite Israel's current unbelief, God has not rejected His people. Romans 11:1-2 states, I ask then, has God rejected His people? Certainly not! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. God did not reject His people, whom He foreknew.

The Remnant Chosen by Grace
God has preserved a remnant of Israel by grace, not by works. Romans 11:5-6 says, So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if it is by grace, then it is no longer by works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.

Gentiles Grafted In
The Gentiles have been grafted into the olive tree of God's people, sharing in the blessings of the covenant. Romans 11:17-18 warns, If some branches have been broken off, and you, a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, do not boast over those branches.

The Mystery of Israel's Hardening
Israel's partial hardening has allowed the fullness of the Gentiles to come in, but this is temporary. Romans 11:25 reveals, I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you will not be conceited: A hardening in part has come to Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in.

All Israel Will Be Saved
God's ultimate plan includes the salvation of all Israel. Romans 11:26-27 promises, And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: 'The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove godlessness from Jacob. And this is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.' Embrace Humility
Recognize that salvation is by grace alone, and avoid boasting over others. Reflect on Romans 11:20, Do not be arrogant, but be afraid.

Pray for Israel
Intercede for the salvation of Israel, understanding God's heart for His chosen people.

Share the Gospel
Be encouraged to share the gospel with both Jews and Gentiles, knowing God's desire for all to come to repentance.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Rest in the assurance that God's plans are perfect and His promises are sure. 1. Paul
Paul is the author of the letter to the Romans. In Romans 11:1, he identifies himself as an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. He uses his own heritage to argue that God has not rejected His people, Israel.

2. Elijah
Elijah is referenced in Romans 11:2-4. Paul cites the account of Elijah from 1 Kings 19, where Elijah pleads with God against Israel, thinking he is the only faithful one left. God reassures Elijah that He has preserved a remnant of 7,000 who have not bowed to Baal.

3. David
David is mentioned in Romans 11:9-10. Paul quotes from the Psalms, attributed to David, to illustrate the spiritual blindness and stumbling of Israel: “Let their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution to them.”

4. Israel
Throughout Romans 11, Israel is a central focus. Paul discusses the spiritual state of Israel, their partial hardening, and the eventual salvation of a remnant. He emphasizes that Israel's rejection is not total or final, as God has preserved a faithful remnant.

5. Gentiles
The Gentiles are addressed in Romans 11:11-25. Paul explains that salvation has come to the Gentiles to provoke Israel to jealousy. He uses the metaphor of an olive tree to describe how Gentiles, as wild branches, have been grafted in among the natural branches (Israel).

6. The Remnant
In Romans 11:5, Paul speaks of a remnant chosen by grace. This remnant refers to the faithful Israelites who have accepted the gospel, demonstrating that God has not completely rejected His people. 1. Israel
In Romans 11, Israel is central to the discussion. The chapter addresses the spiritual state of Israel and God's plan for the nation. Paul speaks about the remnant of Israel chosen by grace (Romans 11:5) and the eventual salvation of all Israel (Romans 11:26). The term "Israel" in the original Greek is "Ἰσραήλ" (Israel), referring to the descendants of Jacob, also known as the Jewish people, and their unique covenant relationship with God.

While Romans 11 does not list multiple geographical locations, it is deeply rooted in the theological and spiritual significance of Israel within God's redemptive plan. 1. God Has Not Rejected His People
Paul begins by asserting that God has not rejected His people, Israel. He uses himself as an example, being an Israelite from the tribe of Benjamin.
^Scripture Reference:^ "I ask then, did God reject His people? Certainly not! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin." (Romans 11:1)
^Greek Insight:^ The Greek word for "rejected" is "ἀπώσατο" (apōsato), indicating a strong denial of abandonment.

2. A Remnant Chosen by Grace
Paul explains that there is a remnant of Israel chosen by grace, not by works, emphasizing God's sovereign choice.
^Scripture Reference:^ "So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace." (Romans 11:5)
^Greek Insight:^ The term "remnant" is "λεῖμμα" (leimma), meaning a small remaining quantity, highlighting God's preservation of a faithful group.

3. Israel's Hardening and Gentile Inclusion
Israel's hardening is described as partial and temporary, allowing Gentiles to be grafted in, which serves to provoke Israel to jealousy.
^Scripture Reference:^ "What then? What Israel was seeking, it failed to obtain, but the elect did. The others were hardened." (Romans 11:7)
^Greek Insight:^ "Hardened" is "ἐπωρώθησαν" (epōrōthēsan), suggesting a spiritual insensitivity or callousness.

4. The Olive Tree Analogy
Paul uses the analogy of an olive tree to explain how Gentiles are grafted into the rich root of Israel, while warning them not to boast over the natural branches.
^Scripture Reference:^ "If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root," (Romans 11:17)
^Greek Insight:^ "Grafted" is "ἐνεκεντρίσθης" (enekentristhēs), a horticultural term for inserting a shoot into a tree.

5. All Israel Will Be Saved
Paul prophesies that all Israel will eventually be saved, quoting from the Old Testament to support this future restoration.
^Scripture Reference:^ "And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: 'The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will remove godlessness from Jacob.'" (Romans 11:26)
^Greek Insight:^ "Saved" is "σωθήσεται" (sōthēsetai), indicating a future tense, pointing to a future fulfillment of God's promise.

6. God's Irrevocable Gifts and Calling
Paul emphasizes that God's gifts and calling are irrevocable, underscoring the faithfulness of God to His promises.
^Scripture Reference:^ "For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable." (Romans 11:29)
^Greek Insight:^ "Irrevocable" is "ἀμεταμέλητα" (ametamelēta), meaning not subject to change or repentance.

7. Doxology: Praise for God's Wisdom and Knowledge
The chapter concludes with a doxology, praising the depth of God's wisdom and knowledge, and His unsearchable judgments.
^Scripture Reference:^ "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" (Romans 11:33)
^Greek Insight:^ "Unsearchable" is "ἀνεξερεύνητα" (anexereunēta), conveying the idea of being beyond human understanding.

1. God's Faithfulness to His People
Romans 11 reminds us that God never abandons His people. Paul writes, "God has not rejected His people, whom He foreknew" (Romans 11:2). This assurance is a powerful reminder that no matter how far we stray, God’s promises remain steadfast. His faithfulness is a cornerstone of our faith, encouraging us to trust in His eternal plan.

2. The Remnant Chosen by Grace
In every generation, God preserves a remnant who remain faithful. "So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace" (Romans 11:5). This teaches us that God’s grace is always at work, even when it seems like faith is dwindling. It’s a call to be part of that remnant, living out our faith boldly and authentically.

3. Grace Over Works
Paul emphasizes that salvation is by grace, not by works. "And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace" (Romans 11:6). This liberating truth frees us from the burden of trying to earn God’s favor and invites us to rest in His unmerited love.

4. The Mystery of Hardening
Romans 11 discusses the temporary hardening of Israel, a mystery that serves a greater purpose. "Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in" (Romans 11:25). This teaches us that God’s plans are intricate and beyond our full understanding, yet they are always aimed at redemption and restoration.

5. The Inclusion of the Gentiles
The chapter highlights the inclusion of the Gentiles into God’s family. "I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry" (Romans 11:13). This inclusion is a testament to God’s expansive love and His desire for all to come to Him, breaking down barriers and uniting us in Christ.

6. The Olive Tree Analogy
Paul uses the olive tree to illustrate how Gentiles are grafted into the rich heritage of Israel. "You, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others" (Romans 11:17). This analogy reminds us of our connection to the roots of faith and the importance of humility and gratitude for being part of God’s family.

7. The Kindness and Severity of God
Romans 11 presents a balanced view of God’s nature. "Consider therefore the kindness and severity of God" (Romans 11:22). This duality encourages us to appreciate God’s mercy while respecting His justice, leading us to live in reverence and awe of His character.

8. The Promise of Israel’s Restoration
Paul speaks of a future restoration for Israel. "And so all Israel will be saved" (Romans 11:26). This promise underscores God’s unwavering commitment to His covenant people and inspires hope for the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan.

9. God’s Unsearchable Judgments
The chapter concludes with a doxology praising God’s wisdom. "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!" (Romans 11:33). This exclamation invites us to marvel at God’s infinite wisdom and to trust in His perfect judgments, even when we cannot see the full picture.

10. Living for God’s Glory
Ultimately, Romans 11 calls us to live for God’s glory. "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen" (Romans 11:36). This is a powerful reminder that our lives are meant to reflect His glory, encouraging us to align our actions and purpose with His divine will.

1. The Remnant of Israel (Romans 11:1-6)
Paul begins by affirming that God has not rejected His people, Israel. He uses himself as an example of a faithful remnant, emphasizing that there is a remnant chosen by grace. The Greek term "λέιμμα" (leimma) is used for "remnant," indicating a small, preserved group.

2. Israel's Hardening and Gentile Inclusion (Romans 11:7-12)
The passage discusses how Israel's hardening has led to the salvation of the Gentiles. This hardening is not total or permanent, as it serves a purpose in God's redemptive plan. The Greek word "πώρωσις" (porosis) refers to this hardening or callousness.

3. The Olive Tree Analogy (Romans 11:13-24)
Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to explain the relationship between Israel and the Gentiles. The natural branches (Israel) were broken off due to unbelief, and wild branches (Gentiles) were grafted in. The Greek term "ἐγκεντρίζω" (enkentrizo) means "to graft in."

4. The Mystery of Israel's Salvation (Romans 11:25-32)
Paul reveals a mystery: Israel's partial hardening will last until the full number of Gentiles has come in, and then all Israel will be saved. The Greek word "μυστήριον" (mysterion) indicates a divine secret now revealed.

5. Doxology: Praise for God's Wisdom (Romans 11:33-36)
The chapter concludes with a doxology, praising the depth of God's wisdom and knowledge. Paul marvels at God's unsearchable judgments and ways, emphasizing His sovereignty and glory. The Greek word "δόξα" (doxa) is used for "glory." 1. The Remnant of Israel
Paul begins by affirming that God has not rejected His people, Israel. He cites the example of Elijah and the remnant chosen by grace: "God did not reject His people, whom He foreknew" (Romans 11:2). The Greek term "προέγνω" (proegnō) implies God's foreknowledge and intimate relationship with Israel.

2. Grace and Works
The theme of grace versus works is highlighted as Paul explains that the remnant is chosen by grace, not by works: "And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace" (Romans 11:6). The Greek word "χάρις" (charis) emphasizes unmerited favor.

3. Israel's Hardening
Paul discusses the partial hardening of Israel, which serves a divine purpose: "God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that could not see and ears that could not hear, to this very day" (Romans 11:8). The Greek "πώρωσις" (pōrōsis) refers to a spiritual insensitivity or hardening.

4. Gentile Inclusion
The inclusion of the Gentiles is a key theme, as their salvation is meant to provoke Israel to jealousy: "Rather, because of their trespass, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel jealous" (Romans 11:11). The Greek "παράπτωμα" (paraptōma) indicates a misstep or transgression.

5. The Olive Tree Metaphor
Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to describe the relationship between Israel and the Gentiles: "If some branches have been broken off, and you, a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others" (Romans 11:17). The imagery of grafting highlights the unity and continuity of God's people.

6. Warning Against Arrogance
Gentile believers are cautioned against arrogance: "Do not boast over those branches. If you do, remember this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you" (Romans 11:18). The Greek "καυχάομαι" (kauchaomai) means to boast or glory in oneself.

7. The Mystery of Israel's Salvation
Paul reveals the mystery of Israel's eventual salvation: "And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written" (Romans 11:26). The Greek "μυστήριον" (mystērion) refers to a divine secret now revealed.

8. God's Mercy and Wisdom
The chapter concludes with a doxology praising God's wisdom and mercy: "For God has consigned all men to disobedience, so that He may have mercy on them all" (Romans 11:32). The Greek "ἔλεος" (eleos) underscores God's compassionate mercy. Thanksgiving for Grace
Thank God for His grace that includes both Jews and Gentiles in His salvation plan.

Intercession for Israel
Pray for the spiritual awakening and salvation of the Jewish people.

Wisdom and Humility
Ask God for wisdom to understand His mysteries and humility to accept His ways.

Boldness in Evangelism
Pray for courage to share the gospel with all people, trusting in God's power to save.

As we study Romans 11, may we be filled with awe at God's wisdom and mercy, and may our hearts be stirred to participate in His redemptive work in the world.

1. Romans 11:1 – Does Paul’s claim that God has not rejected Israel contradict Old Testament accounts of divine judgment against Israel?

2. Romans 11:14 – Is there any historical or archaeological evidence verifying that Paul’s efforts truly provoked his fellow Jews to embrace Christ?

3. Romans 11:17–18 – How can the metaphor of grafting branches represent a real spiritual transformation without conflicting scientific understanding of plant biology?

4. Romans 11:25–26 – Does the statement “all Israel will be saved” align with other biblical passages that suggest some Israelites remain unbelieving and lost?

5. Romans 11:33–34 – How can the “unsearchable” knowledge and judgments of God be tested or verified in any objective, historical, or scientific sense?

1. What does the concept of "remnant" reveal about God's faithfulness?

2. How does the partial hardening of Israel lead to salvation for the Gentiles?

3. What is the significance of the metaphor of the olive tree?

4. How does Romans 11 shape your understanding of God's plan for both Israel and the Gentiles?

5. In what ways does the eventual restoration of Israel demonstrate God's mercy and faithfulness?

6. How do you understand the mystery of Israel's salvation as explained by Paul?

7. How can we apply the caution against arrogance given to the Gentiles to our lives today?

8. How does the concept of God’s mercy on all, regardless of disobedience, influence your perspective on God's character?

9. In light of Romans 11, how do you understand the relationship between Jewish and Gentile believers?

10. What insights does Paul's doxology provide about our response to God’s wisdom and mercy?

11. How does the concept of 'all things come from Him' shape your understanding of your relationship with God and the world around you?

12. What can we learn about humility and dependence on God from the metaphor of the olive tree?

13. How does Paul's understanding of God's plan for Israel challenge or affirm your own understanding?

14. How does the theme of God’s sovereign election play out in this chapter?

15. What implications does the mystery of Israel’s hardening have for our understanding of God’s purposes?

16. How does the concept of Gentiles being grafted in shape your understanding of God’s inclusivity?

17. What does the chapter teach about how we should respond when God's plans seem difficult to understand?

18. How can the teachings in Romans 11 guide you in your interactions with people of different faith backgrounds?

19. In light of Romans 11, how can you cultivate an attitude of reverence and awe for God's unsearchable wisdom and knowledge?

20. How does this chapter shape your understanding of God's long-term plans and His patience with humanity?