Romans: Faith That Changes EverythingSample

Imagine you’re on a crowded flight, a mom and child next to you, and her other child across the aisle. Would you be willing to trade seats so he could sit with his mother? It’s not as consequential as what Paul wrote in Romans 9, but it’s along the same lines. Paul said he was willing to give up his own place in heaven if it would save his countrymen in Israel. The Jews thought they would automatically be included because they were Abraham’s descendants, but Paul pointed out the truth: acceptance into God’s kingdom isn’t based on bloodlines, but on believing we are saved by grace through faith.

Paul wrote, “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9, NLT) Salvation isn’t about what we can do for God, how good we can be, or what traditions we’ve upheld. We’re not saved by our parents’ faith. Each person must believe for themself.

Paul recognized that some Jews did have faith in God, but many didn’t. He makes it clear in Romans 11 that God still wanted Israel to turn from their sin and follow Christ. “They were disobedient, so God made salvation available to the Gentiles. But he wanted his own people to become jealous and claim it for themselves.” (Romans 11:11, NLT)

Just like God didn’t give up on the Israelites, God isn’t giving up on you, either. If you think you’ve done too much or that you’re beyond saving, hear Paul’s words and know the truth: God loves you too much to let you go. Will you turn back and believe?

Pray: Dear God, you are too gracious and kind to give up on me. Draw me close and shape my desires so they align with yours. Amen.