Not only that, but Rebekah’s children had one and the same father, our father Isaac. Yet, before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad – in order that God’s purpose in election might stand.
Romans 9:10-11
As Paul struggles with the issue of his fellow Jews’ rejection of the Messiah, he describes the favored position the Israelites held, receiving the covenants, the law, temple worship, and the promises of God. The Jews believed that only the children of Abraham could attain salvation. Paul, however, separates believing Israel from unbelieving Israel and begins to build his case that although not biologically descended from Abraham, believing Gentiles are regarded as children of the promise. God’s perfect plan is seen throughout the history of Israel, and Paul systematically shows how God’s election of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob fit His plan. Just as Israel was chosen to be a nation separated for God, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were men elected to fulfill God’s plan and purposes. Paul, a Jew, was distressed that those who had been the recipients of God’s promises had failed to inherit them. The question then remains: What will happen to God’s chosen people? If Israel rejected God’s Messiah, would God reject Israel? Does Israel’s rejection of the Messiah change the status of “election” for the nation of Israel? It is easy to see Paul’s struggle with these questions as he works his way through Romans 9-11, but one theme resounds clearly: God’s plan is perfect and His promises stand. He used rebellious Israel throughout the Old Testament to keep His plan moving forward, and He will work things out for the ultimate good of the people He created and loves. What hope that should give us, that although the circumstances of our lives seem as though we have been rejected by God, His love is unfailing and His promises to us will always be fulfilled.
What promises have you been waiting on that are yet unfulfilled?
Trust in the Lord and remember that He has a plan and that His purposes and plans will stand the test of time.
Heavenly Father, Thank you that Your plan keeps moving forward and that You will work all things out for my good. Thank you that You used the Israelites, even in their rebellion, to work out Your purposes. My hope is in You and Your unfailing goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen
