Romans 9:30-33 God's Grace

My commentary says here is the place where Paul moved from divine sovereignty to human responsibility.  Here, he didn't use "elect" and "non-elect".  He emphasized faith.

"The Jews sought for righteousness but did not find it, while the Gentiles, who were not searching for it, found it.  The reason?  Israel tried to be save by works and not by faith.  They rejected grace righteousness and tried to please God with law righteousness ... We need to decide what kind of righteousness we are seeking, whether we are depending on good works and character, or trusting Christ alone for salvation ... It is not a question of whether or not we are among God's elect.  That is a mystery known only to God.  He offers us His salvation by faith.  The offer is made to whosoever will.  After we have trusted Christ, then we have the witness and evidence that we are among His elect.  But first we must trust Him and receive by faith His righteousness that alone can guarantee heaven."

It ends with, "Romans 9 does not negate Romans 8.  God is still faithful, righteous, just, and gracious, and He can be depended on to accomplish His purposes and keep His promises."

Father, as it say, the fact that we cannot fully understand how divine sovereignty and human responsibility work together does not deny the fact that they do.  I'm so glad that You are so wise and put it all together to work for our good!

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford