Introduction: In Romans 9, the Apostle Paul answers some questions regarding God’s sovereignty and mankind’s responsibility, especially with his homeland Israel. Paul agonizes over the reality of his fellow countrymen’s rejection of the Messiah, while also giving us a sovereign view of God’s purposes in election. The outline of Romans 9 takes us through the apostle’s reasoning and revelation, showing us that God’s ways, though sometimes beyond our comprehension, are always perfect and just, and that, we can be absolutely sure.
I. Paul’s Sorrow for Israel (Romans 9:1-5)
Paul expresses his overwhelming grief for the Israelite’s unbelief and their rejection of Christ, despite their privileged position as God’s chosen people. We read in Exodus 4:22, that Israel is being called God’s firstborn son, showing their special status in the eyes of God, however when it came to Jesus, they rejected his deity. Israel broke the covenant with God many times in the Old Testament, so as we read in Jeremiah 31:31-34, there is a promise of a new covenant specifically for the house of Israel, but they rejected it, not all reject Jesus, but many. Also the Bible tells us in John 1:11 about Jesus coming to His own, but His own people received Him not.
II. God’s Sovereign Choice (Romans 9:6-13)
Paul writes that not all descendants of Israel are true children of Abraham; rather, God’s sovereign election (the elect) determines who the sons and daughters of Abraham. God saves who he wants saved, whether Jew or gentile. In Genesis 21:12, we read about God’s election of Isaac over Ishmael. Isaac was God’s choice to carry the torch of righteousness. And in Malachi 1:2-3, once again we read about God’s love for Jacob and rejection of Esau before their births, it is God who chooses his servants. Finally we read in Ephesians 1:4-5 about the concept of being chosen by God before the foundation of the world.
III. God’s Righteousness in Election (Romans 9:14-18)
The question of God being just in election is addressed here, Paul stating that God is righteous in showing mercy or hardening hearts according to His purpose. After all, He is God, He created and sustains us, He can choose who He chooses, but one things is for sure, who He chooses always chooses him too. The Bible tells us in Exodus 9:16 about Pharaoh’s heart being hardened to display God’s power. In Deuteronomy 7:7-8, the Bible tells us about God choosing Israel not because of their number but because of His love. He loves who He chooses, but He also want them to love Him back. And in 2 Timothy 1:9, we read, God calls us not according to our works but His own purpose and grace.
IV. The Potter and the Clay (Romans 9:19-29)
Paul uses the example of a potter and clay to teach about God’s sovereign authority over creation, making some vessels for honor and others for common use, and even some vessels of dishonor. We read about another instance of the potter and the clay in Isaiah 29:16, this verses is an analogy of the potter and clay which points out God’s control over His creation. Also who can question God about His choices, in Isaiah 45:9 the Bibles shows us the foolishness of questioning God’s decisions, it’s like the clay arguing with the potter. The principle of vessels God makes can be seen in 2 Timothy 2:20-21, some vessels for honor and dishonor within a great house.
V. Israel’s Stumbling Over Christ (Romans 9:30-33)
Paul compares the Gentiles who attained righteousness through faith, with Israel, who stumbled over the “stumbling stone,” Jesus Christ. Isaiah 8:14 gives the prophecy of the Lord as a stone that causes people to stumble. He is a stumbling stone for some and cornerstone for others according to Isaiah 28:16, shows the promise of a cornerstone in Zion, a sure foundation, and in 1 Peter 2:6-8, the Bible says that Jesus is the chosen cornerstone, but a stone of stumbling for the disobedient.
Conclusion: Romans 9 deals with several subjects, such as sorrow, sovereignty, and selection or election. Paul’s grief over Israel’s unbelief is noticeable, yet his defense of God’s sovereign choice stands unwavering. The apostle speaks of God’s righteous deeds, reaffirming that His ways are just, even when they defy our understanding. As we think on these great truths of the Bible, we should be encouraged to trust in the wisdom and justice of God’s sovereign election, and assured that His purposes are always meant for our good and His eternal glory.
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