What does Romans 10:21 mean?

Explanation

Romans 10:21 is a verse that appears towards the end of a chapter where the Apostle Paul expresses a deep desire for his fellow Israelites to be saved by embracing faith in Jesus Christ.

The verse is a direct quote from the book of Isaiah (Isaiah 65:2), which Paul uses to demonstrate that even in the times of the Old Testament, God reached out to the people of Israel, though they were rebellious and argumentative.

It highlights the persistent and patient offer of God for a relationship, despite human stubbornness and disobedience.

Historical Context

Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around 57 AD to the believers in Rome.

At this time, there was tension between Jewish and Gentile Christians about the place of the Mosaic Law and Jewish traditions in the Christian faith.

Paul is addressing the issue of Jewish unbelief and explaining that righteousness is obtained through faith, not by the works of the law.

The historical context of God's outreach to Israel goes back to their formation as a nation and the repeated cycles of apostasy and repentance throughout the Old Testament.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, Romans 10:21 is often seen as an expression of God's sovereignty and mercy.

It shows God's initiative in the salvation process, and the sorrowful rejection by those He is calling. Different theological views interpret this verse differently:

1. Reformed Theology: They might see this verse as an example of the doctrine of irresistible grace, which holds that while God's grace can be rejected by humans, His elect will ultimately come to salvation.

2. Arminian Theology: They might emphasize human free will, interpreting the verse as an example of how God allows people to reject His offer of salvation.

3. Dispensationalism: They typically view this difference between Israel and the Church distinctly and focus on the specific role and future of national Israel in God's plan.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied in daily life in numerous ways.

It calls for believers to have patience and persist in their efforts to share their faith, just as God has done.

It can also serve as a reminder to be introspective about one's own responsiveness to God's call and to encourage more obedience and less resistance to God’s will.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 65:2 - “I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts;”
• Romans 9:30-33 - “What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.

But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.

Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law.

For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;”

• John 1:11 - “He came unto his own, and his own received him not.”
• Matthew 23:37 - “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!”

Language Study

The phrase “stretched forth my hands” in the Greek text is “ἐξεπέτασα τὰς χεῖράς” (exepetasa tas cheiras).

“Exepetasa” comes from “ekpetannumi” which means to stretch out, extend, or spread out.

"Tas cheiras" (the hands) symbolizes an offer or appeal coming from God.

“Disobedient” and “gainsaying” translate “ἀπειθοῦς” (apeithous) and “ἀντιλέγοντα” (antilegonta), respectively.

“Apeithous” suggests unbelief or obstinacy, a refusal to be persuaded.

“Antilegonta” indicates contradiction or opposition, essentially speaking against something.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, gods were often depicted as distant or reactive, only reaching out to humankind in anger or for the demands of homage.

In contrast, the Judeo-Christian God is portrayed as taking the initiative in relations with humanity and being patient despite disobedience, a unique feature that differs from many ancient mythologies.

Scientific Perspectives

While Romans 10:21 does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, it does touch on the concept of human behavior and psychology.

The verse touches on themes of resistance to change or guidance, which aligns with modern psychological insights into human defensiveness and reactance.

Commentaries

Commentary on Romans 10:21 often focuses on the sorrow and frustration of God in the face of Israel's rejection.

Scholars such as John Stott and F.

F.

Bruce comment on the heart of God that desires to save Israel and the tragedy of their unbelief despite God's continuous outreach.

These experts often view the verse as integral to understanding Israel's place in New Testament theology and the dynamics of God's persistence and human rebellion.