by Roby Ellis
[Scripture Reading: Romans 11:7-16]
Introduction
A. Paul often expressed his desire for Israel to obtain salvation (Romans 1:16; 9:23; 10:1; 11:13-14). Shouldn’t we desire the same?
B. Paul says that they could be saved (Romans 11:1,17-24) and that they would be saved if they would turn to Christ (11:25-26).
I. Let’s consider some sermons that reached many of the Jews.
A. Peter’s sermon convinced 3,000 Jews to be baptized in Jesus’ name (Acts 2).
B. Although Stephen’s sermon produced no converts at first, it has made an impact on many (Acts 7).
C. Paul’s sermon in Antioch was very effective (Acts 13).
II. They must see that the promise and the law are not inseparable.
A. God granted the promise on the basis of faith, not flesh (Romans 2:28-29; 3:9-24; 4:8-16; 9:8-12).
B. One cannot find justification in the Law of Moses, but only a curse to its offenders (Galatians 3:10-12).
III. Israel needs to hear what the law says about itself.
A. They need to see that any confidence in Jerusalem is unfounded (Jeremiah 7:12-15; Matthew 24).
B. They need to see that the Law foretold its own replacement (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 7:1-13).
Conclusion
A. Acceptance of Christ does not negate the Law or its promises; the fact is that we hereby “establish the law” (Romans 3:31).
B. May we as the spiritual descendants of Abraham ever pray that his physical descendants be saved from the wrath to come!