Faithful Remnant
Notes
Transcript
Introduction
Introduction
Paul is writing to the assembly in Romans. He is writing to Jews and Gentiles alike.
For us the idea that God is for everyone is a no brain-er. Like duh. But in an ancient point of view it was not uncommon to think that when a god chose one group he was against all other groups. We see this thinking in the OT a lot.
Now the idea is if God is for the Gentiles has he left the Israelite. Is he choosing a new people. Leaving behind the Jews because they won’t listen.
Romans 11:1-10
Romans 11:1-10
1 I ask, then, has God rejected his people? Absolutely not! For I too am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Or don’t you know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah—how he pleads with God against Israel? 3 Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars. I am the only one left, and they are trying to take my life! 4 But what was God’s answer to him? I have left seven thousand for myself who have not bowed down to Baal. 5 In the same way, then, there is also at the present time a remnant chosen by grace. 6 Now if by grace, then it is not by works; otherwise grace ceases to be grace.
7 What then? Israel did not find what it was looking for, but the elect did find it. The rest were hardened, 8 as it is written,
God gave them a spirit of stupor,
eyes that cannot see
and ears that cannot hear,
to this day.
9 And David says,
Let their table become a snare and a trap,
a pitfall and a retribution to them.
10 Let their eyes be darkened so that they cannot see,
and their backs be bent continually.
God has always Preserved the Elect in Israel
God has always Preserved the Elect in Israel
Of the fourteen times Paul uses the exclamation by no means! (me genoito), ten of them are in the epistle to the Romans
The frequency of this phrase in Romans is evidence of the controversial nature of Paul’s content. Usually it is in response to the objections or questions of a fictional objector whom Paul’s diatribe format calls forth.
But here, Paul is asking and answering his own question so as to continue the treatment on Israel which began in Romans 9:1.
Did God reject his people or is he holding on to a disobedient and obstinate people (Romans 10:21)
Paul uses himself as “Exhibit A” to prove that God did not reject his people. The fact that Paul, an Israelite … a descendant of Abraham … from the tribe of Benjamin (cf. Phil. 3:5), is also an apostle of Jesus Christ, sent to deliver the mystery of the gospel to the Gentiles, proves that God has not abandoned Israel!
If Paul were the only Jew on earth who believed in Jesus Christ, it would be proof positive that God had not rejected his people.
But it can also be proved from the darkest days of Israel’s history.
God has always had a faithful remnant.
Throughout Israel’s History, There has been times in which the people have turned their back on God’s ways but a faithful remnant will remain. This is how Isreal has preserved. God did not reject what he had selected all the way back with Abraham. Where he choose one man to choose one family, to choose one people to bring us back into one kingdom
The people of God have been rebellious from the Beginning.
24 You have been rebelling against the Lord ever since I have known you.
This could easily be translated “from the day I chose you”
God has chosen the people and the people need to respond in kind. But not all the people do. But through out all the History the remnant that is faithful will be there
Paul cites one of the clearest statements of God’s preservation of a remnant of Israelites through whom his covenant blessings would continue to flow by pointing out the experience of Elijah. At a time when Elijah thought he was the only prophet left in Israel, God assured him that neither he nor the nation had been forsaken:
18 But I will leave seven thousand in Israel—every knee that has not bowed to Baal and every mouth that has not kissed him.”
or as Isaiah says
9 If the Lord of Armies
had not left us a few survivors,
we would be like Sodom,
we would resemble Gomorrah.
God always spares those who remain faithful. Though he would be completely justified in whipping out the whole group, despite the few that are faithful. That may not sound fair to us, in our individualistic way of life, but in we based society it would have been a very well on their mind. Just think of the Romans who seize and Jerusalem and burn down the temple. Where all Jews against Rome? Of course not, but they suffered just the same.
21 The remnant will return, the remnant of Jacob,
to the Mighty God.
God will fulfill his sovereign purposes in salvation by remaining faithful to his promises and by preserving a remnant in Israel.
Just as God preserved a remnant of faithful believers in Israel during Elijah’s day and is Isaiahs day and is Joel’s day, God is preserving a remnant in the nation of Israel even as Paul writes.
The Faithful Remnant Will Remain
The Faithful Remnant Will Remain
I love this idea that is through out the scriptures.
We can’t control every one. Even those who claim to be Christians.
We can only Be faithful Our job is to be faithful
13 When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: fear God and keep his commands, because this is for all humanity.
That is it.
We see Christians not behaving like Christians.
We See Christians reinterpreting Scriptures to fit their own desires. So they can choose what is Tov and Ra. and I am not even just talking about secondary or tertiary things. I am talking core believes.
And yes we call people to the faith
and yes we see to teach the Bible.
and Yes there will be ways in which disagree
But we are brought together but the grace of Jesus Christ
We have seen Christians through out history do some amazing world changing things because they have followed the teachings of Jesus, and we have seen some horrible things because they have used the teaching of Jesus to their own ends.
Our Job is to Be faithful
Praise God that his Grace is sufficient
Praise God that just because this church over there is blaspheming Jesus for their own purposes, we will not be crushed.
Praise God that the faithful will remain.
May not be very fun because the consequences of things will be felt.
Indeed, the remnant contains the only ones who see their need of it. What makes the remnant the faithful remnant except the fact that they are acutely aware that they are a sinful people?
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Next Steps
Next Steps
1. Invitation to Reflect on Personal Faith:Reflect on your own faith journey. Consider how God has been faithful in your life, even during difficult times. Recognize that just as God preserved a remnant in Israel, He is preserving a faithful remnant today.
2. Prayer of Acceptance:If you haven't accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, now is the time. Pray this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I recognize that I am a sinner in need of your grace. I believe that you died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I accept you as my Lord and Savior and commit to following you faithfully. Amen."
3. Public Declaration:Share your decision with someone you trust—a family member, friend, or church leader. Publicly declaring your faith strengthens your commitment and encourages others.
4. Engage with Scripture:Regularly read and study the Bible. Start with the book of Romans to understand Paul's teachings about faith, grace, and God's plan for salvation. Join a Bible study group to discuss and grow in your understanding.
5. Join a Community:Become an active member of a local church. Fellowship with other believers provides support, accountability, and opportunities to serve and grow in your faith.
6. Baptism:If you haven't been baptized, consider this step as a public declaration of your faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism symbolizes your identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
7. Serve Others:Put your faith into action by serving others. Volunteer in your church, community, or a charitable organization. Reflect Christ's love through acts of kindness and service.
8. Share the Gospel:Tell others about your faith journey and the hope you have in Jesus. Be a witness to the transformative power of Christ in your life.
9. Stay Faithful:Remain steadfast in your faith, even when faced with challenges. Remember that God has always preserved a faithful remnant, and He will preserve you.
10. Pray Continually:Maintain a strong prayer life. Seek God's guidance, strength, and wisdom daily. Pray for others, especially those who haven't yet accepted Christ.
Bibliography
Bibliography
Boa, Kenneth, and William Kruidenier. Romans. Vol. 6 of Holman New Testament Commentary. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000.
Questions for further discussion
Questions for further discussion
What is the significance of Paul writing to both Jews and Gentiles in Romans?
How does Paul use his own life as an example to demonstrate that God has not rejected his people?
What example does Paul provide to show that God has always preserved a faithful remnant in Israel?
Why does the author mention the story of Elijah as evidence of God preserving a remnant in Israel?
How does the author emphasize the importance of remaining faithful in the face of challenges?
How can you reflect on your own faith journey and recognize God's faithfulness in your life?
Why is it important to publicly declare your faith in Jesus to strengthen your commitment and encourage others?
What steps can you take to engage with Scripture and grow in your understanding of God's plan for salvation as outlined in Romans?
In what ways can you put your faith into action by serving others and reflecting Christ's love through acts of kindness and service?
Why is it important to remain steadfast in your faith even when faced with challenges, knowing that God has always preserved a faithful remnant?
What does it mean to be a faithful remnant according to the sermon text?
How does God show his faithfulness to his people throughout history, as described in the sermon?
Why is it important for Christians to be faithful in their beliefs and actions, despite the behavior of others who may misinterpret scriptures?
What are some practical ways for children to stay faithful in their faith, according to the sermon text?
How can children understand the concept of God's grace being sufficient, as mentioned in the sermon?
Social Helps
Social Helps
Summary: In Romans 11:1–10, Paul speaks of the faithful remnant of Israel who have not rejected God. Despite the unfaithfulness of many, there remains a group who have maintained their trust in God.
Application: This passage serves as a reminder to Christians that even in times of spiritual decline or rejection by others, we are called to remain faithful to God. It encourages us to stay true to our beliefs and not be swayed by the actions or opinions of others.
Teaching: The passage teaches us about the importance of unwavering faith and commitment to God, even in the face of adversity. It reminds us that God always has a remnant who remain faithful to Him, no matter the circumstances.
How this passage could point to Christ: In this passage, we see the faithfulness of God towards His remnant, fulfilling His promises and preserving a people for Himself. This points to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant promises, providing salvation and security for all who remain faithful to Him.
Big Idea: Remaining faithful to God, even in times of trial and rejection, is crucial. God always preserves a remnant who stay true to Him, and he rewards their faithfulness. This passage encourages us to stand firm in our faith and trust in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to His people.
Recommended Study: For a deeper understanding of the concept of the faithful remnant in the Bible, consider studying other passages that mention this theme, such as Isaiah 1:9 and Micah 4:7. Use your Logos library to explore the historical and theological significance of the remnant motif in both the Old and New Testaments. Additionally, delve into the cultural context of Paul's message in Romans 11 to better grasp the significance of the faithful remnant in the broader biblical narrative.
