Message Notes

(I) THE NATION OF ISRAEL

1. History of Israel

a) In its own right

b) As an example (object lesson)

2. Checkered history

a) A spirit of stupor ( Romans 11:8 )

b) Ensnared and trapped in its own cunning schemes ( Romans 11:9 )

(II) A VITAL THEOLOGICAL QUESTION

What is Israel’s standing before God today?

1. A question that arose in Paul’s day

2. A question that continues to be intriguing today

3. Paul’s teaching

a) God has not cast away His people ( Romans 11:1 )

b) There is “a remnant according to the election of grace” ( Romans 11:5 )

c) Israel remains a root that is holy ( Romans 11:16-18 )

d) Israel will be redeemed one day ( Romans 11:26-27 )

(III) THE DOCTRINE OF THE GOODNESS OF THE LORD APPLIED

“Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness; if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off.” Romans 11:22

1. Consider

a) Doctrines must always be given careful consideration

b) Goodness and Severity contrasted

2. The Goodness of God given to Gentiles

a) Failure of Israel led to “riches for the Gentiles” ( Romans 11:12 )

b) Casting away of Israel led to the “reconciling of the world” ( Romans 11:15 )

c) Fearing of God ( Romans 11:20 )

3. Challenge to continue in His goodness

a) In gratitude

b) In knowledge and wisdom

c) In humble faith

d) In prayer for Israel

“Concerning the election they are beloved for the sake of the fathers” Romans 11:28