What does Romans 11:7 mean?

Explanation

Romans 11:7 speaks to the condition of Israel, God's chosen people, in relation to their pursuit and understanding of God's righteousness and salvation through Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul, who wrote the epistle to the Romans, distinguishes between two groups within Israel.

The "election" refers to the Jewish people who have accepted Jesus as the Messiah and have therefore obtained the righteousness they sought.

However, the "rest" were made spiritually "blind" and did not recognize Jesus as the Savior. They have not achieved the salvation they aimed for because they sought it not by faith but as if it could be attained by works.

Historical Context

Romans was composed by Paul around A.D. 57.

During this time, the church at Rome was comprised of both Gentile and Jewish Christians.

There was a question of how the Jewish law and customs fit within the new covenant of faith in Jesus Christ.

Tension existed between the Jewish emphasis on the law and the Gentile acceptance of grace.

Against this backdrop, Paul delves into the role of Israel in God's redemptive plan, arguing that though Israel as a whole did not accept Jesus, God's purpose was still being fulfilled through a remnant chosen by grace.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Romans 11:7 presents the concept of a "remnant" , a motif found in Jewish scripture referring to a small group of Israelites who remain faithful to God.

From a Calvinist perspective, it speaks to the doctrine of election, suggesting that God has chosen certain individuals for salvation.

The Arminian viewpoint, however, sees this 'election' as conditional on faith.

In both interpretations, there's the implication that a degree of spiritual blindness has befallen the larger part of Israel to further God's plan to include Gentiles into His people.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages believers to recognize that not all who seek God will find Him in the way they expect.

It is a call to seek after God through faith in Christ rather than reliance on works or heritage.

For Jewish listeners or readers, it serves as a reminder that one's lineage does not guarantee divine favor; faith is essential.

For non-Jews, it is a demonstration of God’s inclusive grace and an invitation to be a part of His family.

Cross-References

• Romans 9:27 - "Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved."
• 2 Corinthians 3:14 - "But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ."
• Ephesians 1:18 - "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints."

Language Study

Two key Greek terms in Romans 11:7 are: 1.

"Election" (ἐκλογή, eklogē) - meaning a choosing or selection, often used in theological contexts to refer to God’s choice of individuals or groups for a particular purpose or destiny. 2.

"Blinded" (πωρόω, pōroō) - in this context, it means to harden or make insensitive, a metaphorical use referring to a spiritual blindness or lack of perception.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, the concept of a chosen group of people is common.

For example, the Egyptians considered themselves chosen by the gods to maintain ma'at, or cosmic order.

By contrast, in Greco-Roman society, individuals sought favor with the gods primarily through rituals and sacrifices.

The idea of an 'elect' based on faith rather than ethnic or social status or observance of law was unique to early Christianity.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, 'spiritual blindness' is an entirely metaphorical concept and not something that can be physically measured or understood.

It often represents cognitive bias or dissonance in psychological terms , the inability to accept information or experiences that conflict with existing beliefs.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars have weighed in on Romans 11:7.

John Stott comments on the parallel between the remnant of Israel and the church, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the mystery of election.

F.F.

Bruce focuses on the historical aspect, noting that a part of Israel's hardening served to allow the Gentiles into God's plan.

Douglas Moo explains that while Israel's hardening serves a purpose in salvation history, it is neither complete nor final, anticipating Paul’s further discussion of Israel’s eventual salvation.