More on God’s mystery of salvation

Romans 11:28 From the standpoint of the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but from the standpoint of God's choice they are beloved for the sake of the fathers; Paul continued unpacking the mystery of God concerning Israel and the Gentiles. How can it be that Israel could be at one time an enemy of the gospel and at another time beloved of God? That is a mystery. From the standpoint of the gospel, Israel at the present time is an enemy. But from the standpoint of God’s choice, they are beloved because of God’s promise to the fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Even though the nation of Israel in part has been hardened, God has not completely abandoned them as a whole. God is keeping a remnant for Himself to fulfill His word so the world will know that God is faithful and dependable. If we are believing Gentiles, then from the standpoint of the gospel, we are beloved and from the standpoint of God’s choice, we are beloved. There was a time when we were not a people at all from the standpoint of God’s choice. We had no claim upon God. He only chose Israel with whom and through whom He revealed Himself to the world. Now, we are beloved of God, and because of His love, we have received God’s call to live our lives walking in love with Jesus. Thank You, Father, for choosing us in Christ. Thank You for opening our hearts to hear Your word. Thank You for sending the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of life in Christ, to dwell in our mortal bodies. We are in awe of Your grace and love. Spread Your love through Your children today for Your glory. Amen. Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com