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Paul expresses deep anguish over his fellow Israelites who have not believed the gospel. He recounts their privileges—adoption, covenants, the law, worship, promises, the patriarchs, and even the lineage of Christ Himself (vv. 4–5). Still, Israel’s failure to believe doesn’t mean God’s word has failed. From the beginning, God’s promises were always for the children of the promise—not merely biological descendants (vv. 6–8). Paul uses Isaac over Ishmael and Jacob over Esau to show that God’s purposes are carried out not by human effort, birth order, or merit, but by God’s sovereign call (vv. 9–13).
🎯 Theme: God’s promises have not failed, because His saving purposes depend on His sovereign call, not human descent or effort.
🌀 Reflection: Paul’s heartbreak for unbelieving Israel challenges us to see people not just as lost, but as precious souls in need of grace. God’s electing love is mysterious and merciful, and His faithfulness is never in question—even when people reject Him.
💬 Mission Challenge: Ask God to give you a burden like Paul’s—for the lost in your community or family—and then act on it. Reach out with a gospel conversation, a prayer, or an invitation to hear more about Jesus.
Just Keith Harris 
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