Rom 9:3-4
3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:
4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;
Some Israelites read Romans 9:3-4 and claim it proves salvation and the promises of God belong only to ethnic Israel — to the physical bloodline descendants of Jacob.
They point to Paul’s words:
For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:
Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants…”
Then they say, “See? Paul says his brothers are Israelites by blood. That means the Gentiles are outsiders — none of the covenants, none of the promises belong to them.”
But that’s not what Paul is teaching.
When we slow down and read Romans 9 carefully, we’ll see Paul’s real point isn’t about excluding Gentiles — it’s about showing that physical lineage never guaranteed spiritual inheritance.
Paul is grieving because most of his fellow Israelites had the law, the covenants, the temple — yet missed Christ, the very fulfillment of all those promises.
Romans 9:1–2 — Paul’s Sorrow for Israel
Before we even get to verses 3 and 4, we have to slow down and see Paul’s heart in verses 1 and 2.
He’s not boasting about Israel. He’s grieving for them.
Romans 9:1–2
1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,
2 That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.
Paul begins this chapter with a heavy confession. He’s not exaggerating — he calls on Christ Himself and the Holy Spirit as witnesses that what he’s feeling is real.
The words “heaviness” and “sorrow” show deep pain — not just a passing emotion, but a lasting heartbreak.
In Greek, the first word points to grief that weighs down the spirit; the second describes pain like a woman in labor.
So Paul isn’t just sad — he’s crushed inside.
He feels the kind of spiritual pain that doesn’t fade, the kind that stays in the heart every day.
Why?
Because his people — Israel after the flesh — had rejected the Messiah.
They had the covenants, the law, and the promises, yet they missed the very One those things pointed to.
Their hearts were hardened; they trusted in their own righteousness instead of the righteousness of Christ.
That’s why Paul’s tone here isn’t pride — it’s sorrow.
He’s not lifting up his nation as if they’re still favored by birth; he’s mourning what they’ve lost because of unbelief.
So before anyone uses Romans 9:3–4 to argue that Paul was glorifying ethnic Israel, we need to remember verse 2:
He’s grieving, not bragging.
What follows in the next verses is Paul explaining why he’s in sorrow — not to praise them for who they are in the flesh, but to show the tragedy of having all the right privileges yet missing the promise Himself — Christ.
Romans 9:3 — Paul’s Pain for His People
Romans 9:3
For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh.
After showing his continual sorrow in verse 2, Paul now explains why he feels that way.
His words here are some of the most emotional in all his writings — not to glorify Israel, but to show how deeply it grieved him that his own people had rejected Christ.
What Paul doesn’t mean
When he says, “I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ,”
he’s not literally saying he wants to be damned or cut off from salvation.
That would go against everything he’s already taught — that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:38–39).
Instead, Paul is using strong emotional language — a deep expression of grief, the way Moses once said, “Blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book” (Exodus 32:32) when pleading for Israel.
He’s showing how much love and compassion he still has for his people, even though they’ve turned away.
He’s saying in essence:
If it were possible — if it could save them — I would be willing to suffer loss myself, just so my people could be saved.”
It’s not a literal wish for damnation, but a statement that shows how heavy his heart is for their blindness.
“My Brethren… According to the Flesh”
This part is key.
When Paul says, “my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh,” he’s not talking about believers in Christ — he’s talking about his fellow Israelites, his physical countrymen.
He calls them “brethren according to the flesh” to separate them from his true “brethren according to the Spirit.”
In Scripture, the word brethren can refer to people in two ways:
Brethren by the Flesh (Physical/Natural Lineage)
This simply means people connected by birth, bloodline, or nationality.
That’s how Paul is using it in Romans 9:3 — speaking about his Jewish brothers and sisters by descent.
Examples:
- Deuteronomy 15:12 – “If thy brother, an Hebrew man, or an Hebrew woman, be sold unto thee…”
→ Here “brother” means another Israelite — a physical brother from the same nation. - Acts 3:17 – “And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.”
→ Peter calls his fellow Jews “brethren,” meaning his people by bloodline, not fellow believers.
So in this sense, Paul’s grief is over his national brothers — those who share his heritage and culture but not his faith.
Brethren by the Spirit (Spiritual Family)
Jesus redefined what it means to be brethren.
True brotherhood in God’s eyes isn’t based on the flesh — it’s based on faith and obedience to God.
📖 Matthew 12:48–50
“But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?
And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.”
John 20:17
..but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.”
Jesus calls His followers “brethren,” showing that spiritual family comes through faith, not birth.
Romans 8:29
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”
Believers become Christ’s brethren through the Spirit — by being born again.
So Paul’s words in Romans 9:3 draw a clear line:
He’s grieving for his physical brethren who have not yet become his spiritual brethren.
They were born of Israel’s bloodline, but not yet born of God’s Spirit.
That sets the stage for the rest of Romans 9 — where Paul will show that true Israel isn’t about who you’re born from, but who you’re born again by.
Romans 9:4–5 — Israel’s Privileges, and the Tragedy Behind Them
Romans 9:4–5 (KJV)
Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants,
and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;
Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came,
who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
Paul now lists seven special privileges that Israel once had under the old covenant.
But remember — he’s not boasting about these things.
He’s showing why he feels such deep sorrow in the first place.
Israel had every reason to recognize Christ, yet still rejected Him.
“Who are Israelites” — A Name of Honor, Now Misunderstood
The name Israelite came from Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel after wrestling with God (Genesis 32:28).
It was meant to be an honorable name — “a prince who prevailed with God.”
But by Paul’s time, the Israelites had turned that national title into a badge of pride instead of a reminder of grace.
They were Israelites by the flesh, but no longer living as those who wrestle for faith.
That’s why Paul’s heart is heavy — their title remained, but their faith was gone.
“To whom pertaineth the adoption” — National, Not Spiritual
This isn’t the spiritual adoption that comes through faith in Christ (Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:5).
This was a national adoption — God choosing Israel as His firstborn nation (Exodus 4:22).
It was a privilege of calling, not automatic salvation.
Even though God called Israel “My son,” that didn’t mean every Israelite was spiritually saved.
They were adopted as a people for a purpose — to bring forth the Messiah — but only those who believe in Christ are part of the true family of God today.
“For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:26
“And the glory” — God’s Presence Among Them
This refers to God’s visible presence — the Shekinah glory that filled the tabernacle and temple (Exodus 40:34).
God literally dwelt among them in a way no other nation ever experienced.
Yet even with His glory right in their midst, many still hardened their hearts.
That’s why John later said of Christ:
“He came unto his own, and his own received him not.” — John 1:11
“And the covenants” — God’s Promises and Agreements
Israel had multiple covenants with God:
- The Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 17) — the promise of blessing and a coming seed.
- The Mosaic covenant (Exodus 19) — the law and priesthood.
- The Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7) — the promise of an everlasting kingdom.
But all of these pointed forward to Christ, who fulfills every one of them.
Rejecting Him meant rejecting the very covenants they claimed to honor.
“And the giving of the law” — God’s Direct Instruction
God personally gave Israel His commandments through Moses.
That law revealed God’s holiness — but it also exposed human sin (Romans 3:20).
The law wasn’t given to make them righteous; it was to show their need for a Savior.
Paul later said,
“The law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ.” — Galatians 3:24
Yet Israel turned the law into a system of self-righteousness — trusting in the commandments instead of the Christ who fulfilled them.
“And the service of God” — Temple Worship and Priesthood
The word service here refers to the temple rituals, sacrifices, and offerings.
All of that pointed to Christ’s future work on the cross — the true Lamb of God who would take away sin once and for all.
But again, the symbol replaced the substance.
They kept the rituals, but rejected the reality those rituals were pointing to.
“And the promises” — The Hope of the Messiah
God gave Israel the promises of salvation, the coming kingdom, and the Redeemer.
They read about Him in their prophets — yet when He came, they didn’t recognize Him.
The very people who had the promises in hand missed their fulfillment standing right in front of them.
“Whose are the fathers” — The Patriarchs
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were the foundation of their faith history.
God’s promises started with them — not because of their perfection, but because of their faith.
Paul mentions them here to remind his readers that the Israelites story was always meant to lead to Christ, not stop at Abraham’s bloodline.
“Of whom, as concerning the flesh, Christ came” — The Greatest Privilege of All
This is the climax of Paul’s sorrow:
Christ Himself — the Messiah, God in the flesh — was born from among them.
He came as one of their own.
The greatest gift God ever gave to humanity came through Israel — yet many of them rejected Him.
Who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.”
Paul ends this sentence by clearly calling Jesus God.
The Israelites had every covenant, every promise, every prophet — and even the privilege of giving birth to the Messiah Himself.
But because of unbelief, they lost the spiritual inheritance that was right in front of them.
Romans 9:6 — The Word of God Has Not Failed
Romans 9:6 (KJV)
Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect.
For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel.
Paul’s Statement of Assurance
Paul starts by defending the faithfulness of God.
Even though Israel (as a nation) rejected Christ, God’s promises did not fail.
When Paul says “the word of God hath not taken none effect,” he means:
God’s promises to Abraham still stand — but they were never meant for unbelievers just because of bloodline.
The problem wasn’t with God’s word;
the problem was with the misunderstanding of who His true Israel actually is.
“They Are Not All Israel, Which Are of Israel”
This is the key phrase that changes everything.
Paul separates Israel into two categories:
| Group | Description |
|---|---|
| Israel after the flesh | Physical descendants of Jacob — the national people of Israel. |
| Israel after the Spirit | The spiritual descendants — those who share Abraham’s faith, not just his DNA. |
So, “not all who are descended from Israel (by blood) are truly Israel (in spirit).”
What Paul Means by “Israel” Here
In the Old Testament, “Israel” meant the entire nation — the chosen people through whom God worked His plan.
But even within that nation, only a remnant truly believed.
Isaiah 10:22
For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return.”
That same idea is what Paul’s teaching here:
Physical membership in Israel doesn’t guarantee spiritual membership in God’s family.
God’s Word Never Fails — It Just Finds Its True Recipients
The promises of God were never about a race, but about a relationship.
The “seed” God promised Abraham was always Christ, and all who believe in Him are included.
Galatians 3:16, 29
Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made… which is Christ.
And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
So when the Israelites rejected Christ, they didn’t cancel God’s promise —
they simply excluded themselves from it.
The promise continued through those who believed, Jew and Gentile alike.
The Real Israel of God
Paul uses the phrase “Israel of God” elsewhere to describe this spiritual group.
Galatians 6:16
And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.”
The “Israel of God” = believers in Christ —
those who walk by faith, not flesh.
That’s why Nathanael was called “an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.” (John 1:47)
He was Israel not by blood, but by heart.
Romans 9 : 7 — “In Isaac Shall Thy Seed Be Called”
Romans 9 : 7 (KJV)
“Neither because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.”
Paul Doubles Down on the Point
In verse 6 Paul said, “They are not all Israel who are of Israel.”
Now he goes even deeper: “Neither because they are Abraham’s seed are they all children.”
He’s showing that being physically descended from Abraham doesn’t automatically make someone part of God’s true family.
The Jews thought their bloodline guaranteed covenant favor — Paul says no.
Abraham Had Two Kinds of Children
Let’s rewind to Genesis.
- Abraham had Ishmael through Hagar — the child born by natural means.
- Then came Isaac through Sarah — the child born by promise and faith.
Both were Abraham’s sons by blood,
but only one was counted as the child of promise.
Genesis 21 : 12
For in Isaac shall thy seed be called.”
That’s the verse Paul quotes here.
God Himself drew the line — not every descendant counts.
Only the one who came by God’s promise, not by man’s effort.
Natural Seed vs Spiritual Seed
| Type | Example | Source | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Seed | Ishmael | Born by the flesh | Not heir of promise |
| Spiritual Seed | Isaac | Born by promise | Heir of covenant |
Paul’s message: the true “children of Abraham” are those born the same way Isaac was — by faith, not flesh.
Galatians 4 : 28–29
Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.”
Faith produces the true family line.
The Hidden Meaning Behind “In Isaac”
The phrase “In Isaac shall thy seed be called” doesn’t just point to Isaac — it ultimately points to Christ.
Galatians 3 : 16
Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made… which is Christ.”
Christ is the promised Seed that came through Isaac’s line.
So when God said, “In Isaac,” He was pointing down the bloodline to the Messiah Himself.
Only those connected to Christ by faith are counted as part of that seed Jew or Gentile alike.
The Error Israel Made
Paul’s countrymen thought:
We’re Abraham’s children, so we’re automatically God’s chosen.”
Jesus already corrected that thinking.
John 8 : 39–40
They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father.
Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham.
But now ye seek to kill me…”
Christ’s point was simple:
being Abraham’s descendant by flesh doesn’t make you Abraham’s child in spirit.
True children follow Abraham’s faith — not just his family tree.
What Paul Is Really Saying
Being of Abraham doesn’t mean you’re like Abraham.
Faith, not DNA, is what connects you to God’s covenant.
That’s why Gentiles who believe in Christ are called Abraham’s seed (Galatians 3 : 29).
And that’s why unbelieving Israelites, though physically descended from him, are spiritually cut off.
So Romans 9 : 7 destroys the false idea that heritage equals holiness.
The promise has always been spiritual — not genetic.
Romans 9:8 — Children of the Flesh vs. Children of the Promise
Romans 9:8
“That is, they which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God:
but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.”
Paul Explains His Point From Verse 7
This verse begins with “That is…” — meaning Paul is now explaining exactly what he meant when he quoted Genesis 21:12 (“In Isaac shall thy seed be called”).
He’s saying:
The promise God made to Abraham doesn’t apply to everyone physically born from him.
It only applies to those born through God’s promise — through faith.
“Children of the Flesh” — The Natural Line
The children of the flesh are those who descend from Abraham naturally — born by human effort or bloodline.
That includes:
- Ishmael (born by human planning),
- and later, Israelites who trust in lineage instead of faith.
But Paul makes it plain:
These are not the children of God.”
Being Abraham’s physical seed doesn’t make anyone God’s child.
Even Jesus told the Jews this plainly:
John 8:39–44
If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham…
Ye are of your father the devil.”
That sounds harsh, but Jesus was correcting the same false idea Paul is exposing here —
that being born into Israel automatically makes you chosen.
“Children of the Promise” — Born by Faith, Not Flesh
In contrast, the children of the promise are those born by faith and the power of God.
Just as Isaac was miraculously born because God promised it,
so believers today are spiritually born through that same kind of promise — not by human effort.
Galatians 4:28–29
Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.”
Paul’s saying:
Isaac = the believer born of the Spirit.
Ishmael = the person born only of the flesh, without faith.
That pattern still repeats spiritually.
Religion born by flesh always persecutes faith born by promise.
The Spiritual Meaning of “Counted for the Seed”
The children of the promise are counted for the seed.”
The word counted means reckoned or considered —
meaning that in God’s eyes, the real descendants of Abraham are those who share his faith, not just his DNA.
Galatians 3:29
And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
So every person who believes in Christ — whether Jew or Gentile —
is counted by God as Abraham’s true child and heir of the covenant.
“Born Not of the Flesh, But of God”
Paul’s words echo John 1:12–13
But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God…
which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.”
Being God’s child isn’t something you inherit by blood — it’s something born in you by the Spirit.
That’s why Paul later says in Romans 8:9:
If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.”
So “children of the promise” are those who are spiritually reborn through faith in Christ —
that’s the new birth that makes someone part of God’s true Israel.
What This Means for the Israelites Paul Is Talking About
Paul’s heart breaks for his people, but truth is truth:
Their rejection of Christ proves they are children of the flesh, not of the promise.
They hold the Scriptures, the heritage, and the temple —
but without faith, they’re missing the very promise those things pointed to.
This is why the Word of God has not failed (Romans 9:6).
The promises were never to all physical Israel — they were to spiritual Israel, the faithful remnant.
From Romans 9:9–29, Paul shifts from explaining spiritual Israel to proving God’s sovereignty through Old Testament examples.
Each one drives home the same truth: God chooses, calls, and shows mercy on His own terms — not based on lineage, works, or human will.
Romans 9:9–29 — God’s Sovereign Right to Choose
Isaac and Ishmael (v 9–10) — Promise over Flesh
For this is the word of promise… At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son.”
Paul reminds them that even Abraham’s own sons weren’t equal in God’s plan.
Ishmael was born by human effort; Isaac by divine promise.
Meaning: God’s covenant always follows His promise, not man’s plan.
Jacob and Esau (v. 11–13) — Grace over Works
“Before the children were born… that the purpose of God according to election might stand.”
Even inside the same womb, God chose Jacob over Esau — before either did good or bad.
Paul’s point: God’s choice is based on His purpose, not human merit.
This crushes the Israelite claim that bloodline or law-keeping earns favor.
Pharaoh (v 14–18) — God’s Power over Human Pride
I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy… and whom He will, He hardeneth.”
Paul quotes Exodus to show that even Pharaoh’s resistance served God’s plan.
Mercy and hardening are both tools in God’s sovereign hand.
Meaning: God is never unfair — He uses even rebellion to reveal His power.
The Potter and the Clay (v 19–24) — Creator over Creation
Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?”
Paul compares humanity to clay in the Potter’s hands.
Some vessels are made for honor, some for dishonor — but both display God’s glory.
Meaning: We don’t shape God; He shapes us.
Paul Quotes Hosea to Prove His Point
Rom 9:25
25 As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.
Paul now supports his argument with prophecy from Hosea 2:23.
He calls the prophet “Osee” (Greek form of Hosea).
This is important because Hosea originally spoke to the northern tribes of Israel, who had fallen into idolatry and were cut off — but Paul uses that same prophecy to show how God would later extend mercy to the Gentiles.
Hosea 2:23
And I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God.”
Paul’s point:
If God once called those who were rejected “My people” again, then He can also call the Gentiles who were never part of Israel — His people by grace.
“I Will Call Them My People” God’s Sovereign Choice
Before their calling, the Gentiles had no covenant, no law, no relationship with God.
They were strangers to His promises (Ephesians 2:12).
But notice the shift — “I will call them.”
God is the one initiating the relationship.
They didn’t choose Him first; He called them by His own will and grace.
Ephesians 2:13
But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.”
So this verse shows the divine initiative salvation isn’t earned, it’s called into being by God Himself.
“Which Were Not My People” Once Rejected, Now Redeemed
Before the gospel reached them, Gentiles were considered outsiders “unclean” and “without hope.”
The Israelite viewed them as “not God’s people.”
But through Christ, that barrier was broken.
Romans 9:24 (previous verse)
Not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles.”
Paul connects that to Hosea’s prophecy to show that the Gentiles being called by God was not new — it was foretold all along.
“And Her Beloved, Which Was Not Beloved”
In Hosea’s original context, God said of Israel,
I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy.” (Hosea 2:23)
Paul quotes it as “her beloved, which was not beloved” — which carries the same meaning.
To “have mercy” and to “love” are interchangeable here, both referring to God’s saving favor.
This doesn’t mean the Gentiles were never loved — God’s love for His elect existed from eternity.
It means that His love wasn’t yet revealed or experienced by them.
1 John 4:19
We love Him, because He first loved us.”
So when God called them, that eternal love was finally manifested and felt they were brought into the fellowship of His mercy.
What This Means Spiritually
This verse demolishes the idea that God’s promises belong only to ethnic Israel.
Paul shows that even the Gentiles who once had no covenant — are now called “My people” and “beloved.”
That calling fulfills God’s eternal purpose:
- To show mercy where none was deserved,
- To form one people made up of both Jews and Gentiles under Christ.
Romans 10:12
For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him.”
Romans 9:26 — “In the Same Place”: The Gentiles Become God’s Children
Romans 9:26
“And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.”
Paul Continues Quoting Hosea
Paul is still drawing from Hosea 1:10, where God declared:
Hosea 1:10
“And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people, there it shall be said unto them, Ye are the sons of the living God.”
Originally, Hosea spoke about Israel’s restoration — but Paul, under the Spirit, applies it to Gentiles being brought into the covenant.
This shows God’s mercy works the same way in both cases:
He calls those who were once far away, “My people,” and makes them His children through faith in Christ.
“In the Place Where It Was Said…”
Notice how specific the wording is:
“In the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people…”
Paul is saying that in those very same lands — the pagan nations once filled with idolatry — God would raise up true believers.
That’s exactly what happened through the gospel.
The Gentile world, once full of idols and false gods, is now the very place where the living God is worshiped.
Acts 17:30
And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.”
What once was a land of darkness became a land of light.
“There Shall They Be Called the Children of the Living God”
This is the climax of the prophecy.
Those who were once alienated, hopeless, and idol-worshiping are now called the children of the living God — not by nature, but by adoption and faith.
Ephesians 2:12–13
That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens… having no hope, and without God in the world.
But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.”
This shows the full reversal of their condition — from rejected to redeemed, from “not My people” to sons and daughters of God.
“Children of the Living God” — A Contrast to Idols
Paul emphasizes “the living God.”
The Gentiles once served lifeless statues of wood and stone, but now they know the God who actually gives life.
1 Thessalonians 1:9
Ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”
That’s the transformation of grace — not just a change of religion, but a change of relationship.
They don’t just worship the living God; they become His children.
Romans 8:15–16
Ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.”
The Spiritual Point
Paul uses Hosea to drive home that the Gentile inclusion was not an afterthought — it was foretold.
Where rejection once stood, mercy now reigns.
Where idols once ruled, the living God now has sons and daughters.
So this verse closes Paul’s Hosea reference by showing how salvation now reaches everywhere —
even “in the same place” that was once far from God
Romans 9:27 — The Remnant of Israel
Romans 9:27
“Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved.”
Paul Shifts From Gentiles to Israel
After proving that God’s mercy extends to the Gentiles (vv. 24–26), Paul now quotes Isaiah 10:22 to show that only a portion of Israel—not the whole nation would be saved.
Isaiah 10:22
For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness.”
Paul’s point: God already revealed that only a remnant of ethnic Israel would experience true redemption.
“Though the Number… Be as the Sand of the Sea”
This phrase recalls God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would be countless (Genesis 22:17).
But Paul exposes the distinction:
- Physically, Israel became many.
- Spiritually, only a few truly belonged to God.
Romans 9:6
For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel.”
So physical descent never guaranteed salvation. The promise to Abraham was fulfilled numerically but not spiritually because faith, not bloodline, defines God’s people.
“A Remnant Shall Be Saved”
Here lies the heart of Isaiah’s prophecy and Paul’s argument: God always works through a remnant.
This “remnant” isn’t a random few—it’s the elect, those chosen by grace.
Romans 11:5
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.”
This means:
- Israel’s rejection was not total (some still believe).
- Nor was it unjust because salvation was always by mercy, never by national privilege.
What Kind of Salvation?
Paul isn’t talking about rescue from Babylon or Rome, but spiritual salvation through Christ.
Those who believe—Jew or Gentile—are saved from sin and wrath by faith in Him.
That’s why Isaiah’s phrase “shall return” (Isaiah 10:21) refers not just to returning to the land but returning to the Mighty God Christ Himself.
Isaiah 10:21
The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God.”
The true “return” is repentance and faith.
The Prophetic Pattern
From Noah to Elijah to Isaiah to Paul—God’s saving work always runs through a remnant.
Large numbers have never been the measure of God’s people; grace has.
Matthew 7:14
Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
So even though Israel boasted of her size and heritage, Paul reminds them: only the humble remnant who believe in Christ are truly saved.
Romans 9:28 God’s Short and Righteous Work
Romans 9:28
“For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.”
Paul Is Quoting Isaiah 10:22–23
Paul continues quoting from Isaiah 10:22–23, which spoke of God’s coming judgment on Israel during Assyria’s invasion but spiritually, Paul applies it to Israel’s rejection and the remnant’s salvation in his day.
Isaiah 10:23
For the Lord God of hosts shall make a consumption, even determined, in the midst of all the land.”
Isaiah foresaw that God would act swiftly and decisively cutting off the unbelieving mass, yet preserving a faithful few.
“He Will Finish the Work” — God’s Decree Will Stand
The “work” here refers not to man’s effort, but to God’s decreed plan His act of judgment and mercy.
Paul’s point: God’s plan regarding Israel is not uncertain or open-ended.
He will finish it — bring it to its full and perfect completion — just as He promised.
Philippians 1:6
He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
In other words: whether in saving the remnant or judging the unbelieving, God’s purpose will be carried out exactly as He decreed.
“And Cut It Short in Righteousness”
This means God will act swiftly and justly.
He will not drag out His work of judgment — it will be executed perfectly, according to His righteousness.
In Isaiah’s time, that judgment came through the Assyrians.
In Paul’s time, it was being fulfilled in Israel’s rejection of the Gospel and the coming destruction of Jerusalem (70 AD).
Psalm 119:137
Righteous art thou, O Lord, and upright are thy judgments.”
So even God’s acts of judgment are not cruel — they are righteous, measured, and purposeful.
“Because a Short Work Will the Lord Make upon the Earth”
Paul’s closing line emphasizes the decisive nature of God’s actions.
He will make “a short work” — meaning His judgment and His gathering of the remnant will happen quickly and completely, not gradually or indefinitely.
This ties to the theme of Romans 9–11:
- God’s rejection of unbelieving Israel is not total or final.
- His calling of the remnant (and the Gentiles) is according to His unchanging purpose, executed perfectly in time.
Romans 11:7
Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.”
Romans 9:29 — A Remnant by Mercy, Not Merit
Romans 9:29
“And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.”
Paul Concludes Isaiah’s Witness
Paul now quotes Isaiah 1:9, pulling together everything he’s argued: that Israel’s survival as a people, and the salvation of a few within her, rest entirely on God’s mercy.
Isaiah 1:9
Except the Lord of hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.”
Isaiah said this while Israel was deep in rebellion; Paul reuses it to show that, centuries later, the same truth still stands: only God’s grace kept Israel from total ruin.
“The Lord of Sabaoth” — The Commander of All
“Sabaoth” means hosts—armies of heaven and earth.
God is the supreme Commander of:
- the hosts of heaven (angels, stars, celestial powers),
- and the hosts of earth (nations and peoples).
This title stresses His absolute rule: the One who commands all creation is the same One who preserves a remnant when judgment falls.
“Had Left Us a Seed” The Surviving Remnant
“Seed” means a small surviving group, the few spared so that life can continue.
In Isaiah’s day that seed was the faithful few who did not bow to idols; in Paul’s day it was the believers within Israel who received Christ.
Romans 11:5
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.”
That remnant exists because God “left” it—He preserved it by His sovereign will, not because of Israel’s obedience.
“We Had Been as Sodom and Gomorrah” — Judgment Deserved
Without God’s mercy, Israel would have faced the same fate as those cities—utter destruction.
Lamentations 3:22
It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed.”
Just as Sodom’s fire was swift and total, Israel’s sin deserved the same, yet the Lord restrained judgment for the sake of His promise and His chosen seed.
Lesson
Election and mercy are not excuses for pride they’re the only reason holiness still exists in the world.
If God had not chosen, preserved, and called a remnant, no one—Jew or Gentile—would stand.
Ephesians 2:4–5
“But God, who is rich in mercy… even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ.”
Romans 9:30 — The Gentiles Attained Righteousness by Faith
Romans 9:30
“What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.”
“What Shall We Say Then?” — The Summary Question
Paul is now wrapping up the section:
After proving that God’s mercy and calling are sovereign (vv. 6–29), he asks—what’s the conclusion?
Answer: the Gentiles, who were not even pursuing righteousness, have obtained it by faith, while Israel—who pursued it—failed.
This shows that salvation depends on God’s grace, not human striving (see Romans 9:16).
“The Gentiles Which Followed Not After Righteousness”
Before the Gospel, the Gentiles had no concern for righteousness before God.
They lived in idolatry, ignorance, and moral darkness (Ephesians 2:12).
They weren’t chasing holiness, studying the law, or seeking justification yet God called them.
Romans 10:20
I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.”
This makes their salvation a striking act of mercy—God reached those who weren’t reaching for Him.
“Have Attained to Righteousness” — How?
The word attained means to seize or lay hold of.
The Gentiles came to possess what Israel had long pursued but never caught: true righteousness before God.
But what righteousness is this?
Not their own, not moral reform, not the works of the law—
but the righteousness of Christ, received by faith.
Philippians 3:9
And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ.”
“Even the Righteousness Which Is of Faith”
This phrase defines it clearly:
- It’s not earned by effort.
- It’s revealed by the Gospel.
- It’s received through faith.
Faith doesn’t create righteousness—it simply embraces Christ’s righteousness.
The moment a sinner believes, God counts that person righteous in His sight.
Romans 4:5
But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.”
The Spiritual Lesson
The Gentiles’ salvation demonstrates that grace overturns human logic:
Those who weren’t seeking God found Him; those who prided themselves on seeking Him (Israel) missed Him because they sought Him wrongly—by works, not faith.
Luke 18:13–14
God be merciful to me a sinner… This man went down to his house justified.”
It’s not religious pursuit that saves it’s humble faith in Christ’s finished work.
Romans 9:31 — Israel Missed the Mark
Romans 9:31
“But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.”
“But Israel” — The Contrast
Paul turns from the Gentiles’ faith to Israel’s failure.
This “but” introduces a tragic contrast:
the people who had God’s law, covenants, and promises still fell short of true righteousness.
Romans 9:4
Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants…”
They had every advantage — yet missed the very purpose those blessings pointed to: Christ Himself.
“Which Followed After the Law of Righteousness”
The Jews sincerely pursued righteousness but in the wrong way.
Paul pictures them like runners straining toward a finish line, but running down the wrong track.
Romans 10:2–3
For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.”
They tried to achieve righteousness through the law — through effort, performance, and self-righteousness — instead of receiving it by faith.
“The Law of Righteousness” — What It Means
Paul calls it “the law of righteousness” because:
- The law itself is holy, just, and good (Romans 7:12).
- It describes what perfect righteousness looks like.
- But it can’t produce righteousness in fallen man.
The problem wasn’t the law — it was the human heart.
The law could reveal sin, but not remove it.
Galatians 3:21
If there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.”
“Hath Not Attained to the Law of Righteousness”
Israel strove hard — but still came up short.
They followed after but never attained.
Why? Because righteousness before God requires perfect obedience or grace through faith and they had neither.
James 2:10
For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.”
Outwardly, many Jews appeared righteous; inwardly, their hearts were unchanged.
They focused on external conformity — ceremonies, Sabbaths, dietary laws but ignored the spiritual intent of the law: love, faith, and humility.
Matthew 23:27–28
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye are like unto whited sepulchres… outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.”
The Point
Effort without faith can never reach God’s righteousness.
Israel had the law but missed the Savior to whom the law pointed.
Galatians 3:24
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”
Without faith, the law condemns; with faith, the law is fulfilled in Christ.
Romans 9:32 — The Stumbling of Israel
Romans 9:32
“Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone.”
“Wherefore?” — Why Did Israel Fail?
Paul asks the obvious question: Why did Israel not attain righteousness?
They were religious, disciplined, and zealous — yet still lost.
Answer: because they sought it not by faith, but by works.
Romans 10:3
For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.”
They trusted in what they could do, not in what God had done.
“Because They Sought It Not by Faith”
Faith is the only channel by which God’s righteousness is received.
Israel refused that way — they wanted to earn it.
Galatians 2:16
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ.”
The Gentiles believed and received righteousness freely; Israel worked hard and missed it completely — because faith humbles man, and pride rejects grace.
“But as It Were by the Works of the Law”
Paul’s phrase “as it were” exposes their delusion —
they acted as if the law could make them righteous.
They weren’t depending on mercy but on performance:
fasting, circumcision, Sabbath-keeping, sacrifices — outward forms instead of inward faith.
Philippians 3:9
Not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ.”
The law was meant to point them to Christ, not replace Him.
“For They Stumbled at That Stumbling Stone”
Here Paul gives the spiritual reason:
their rejection of righteousness by faith was actually a rejection of Christ Himself.
Christ is the “stumbling stone” — the very foundation they tripped over.
1 Corinthians 1:23
But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness.”
Why?
Because a crucified Messiah offended their pride.
They wanted a conqueror, not a suffering Savior; a lawgiver, not a Lamb.
Religious zeal can still be rebellion when it’s without faith.
Israel’s story warns every self-righteous heart:
the moment we trust in our effort instead of His grace, we stumble over the very stone meant to save us.
Isaiah 28:16
Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone… he that believeth shall not make haste.”
The same Christ who saves the believer is the same one who offends the proud.
Romans 9:33 — The Stumbling Stone and the Sure Foundation
Romans 9:33
“As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumbling stone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”
“As It Is Written” — Paul Quotes Isaiah
Paul joins together two prophecies — Isaiah 8:14 and Isaiah 28:16 — showing how both point directly to Christ.
He “skips” between them, combining both texts to reveal their full meaning:
Christ is both the rock men stumble over and the foundation believers stand on.
Isaiah 28:16
“Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.”
Isaiah 8:14
And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel.”
“Behold, I Lay in Sion” — God’s Own Work
The Father Himself laid this Stone — Christ — in Zion.
It was not man’s idea but God’s eternal decree: Christ is the foundation of salvation and of His church.
1 Peter 2:6
Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.”
Zion here represents both Jerusalem (where Christ appeared) and the spiritual church built on Him.
“A Stumbling Stone and Rock of Offence”
To unbelieving Israel, this same Christ became an obstacle.
They stumbled over His humility, His lowly birth, His suffering, and especially His cross.
They expected a political conqueror — not a crucified Savior.
1 Corinthians 1:23
But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness.”
By rejecting Him, they fulfilled the very prophecy that warned of their fall.
“Whosoever Believeth on Him Shall Not Be Ashamed”
Faith reverses the curse of stumbling.
Those who believe in Christ stand secure and unashamed — both now and on Judgment Day.
Romans 10:11
For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”
To “not be ashamed” means not to be disappointed or confounded — not to flee in panic or find one’s hope false.
Faith rests calmly on the foundation God laid, confident that salvation is complete in Christ.
Christ divides humanity into two groups:
| Group | Response to Christ | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Unbelievers | Stumble at the stone | Condemnation, shame |
| Believers | Stand upon the stone | Justification, glory |
He is both a Rock of refuge and a Rock of ruin depending on whether one believes or rejects Him.
Luke 20:17–18
The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner… whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.”
The Bible Vault 