Scripture:

Romans 11:

28As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, 29for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable. 30Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, 31so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God’s mercy to you. 32For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.

Observation:

You don’t have to completely understand the entire history of the Jews to understand what is happening here in Romans 11.  The Jews had turned away from God, but a remnant remained that was faithful.  It was on account of the Jews disobedience that the Gentiles were offered God’s mercy.  He set aside the Jews for a time.  God is consistent however and would keep his promises to the Jews…even in spite of their disobedience.
 
God’s mercy reigns.

Application:

An interesting way for God to work.  Unexpected for sure.  But in the end everyone benefits from the mercy of God.  And aren’t you glad that this is true.  God often works in ways that we don’t understand.  Even as we are disobedient his mercy remains available.  He might even use unexpected means to get our attention and eventually draw us back to himself.
 
There’s just one catch.  It’s only as we understand that we are “bound to disobedience” that we receive God’s mercy.  It’s not available to the proud, but to the humble.  Those who recognize their sin and utter need for reconciliation.  You’ve been doing life your way.  How’s that working for you?  Return to God and see life his way.
 
Have you recognized in your own life your desperate need for mercy?  If so…do you see that need in those around you?  God might be using you to help someone else find their way back to Himself.

Prayer:

Ask God for his mercy today.  Thank him for his mercy today.  Pray on behalf of someone else that they might receive his mercy today!

1. markseekins posted this