What does Romans 9:17 mean?

Explanation

Romans 9:17 refers to an Old Testament event where God speaks to Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. The apostle Paul quotes from Exodus 9:16 to illustrate the sovereignty of God in His choices and actions throughout history.

In its immediate context, the verse is part of Paul’s argument about God’s sovereign election and the hardening of certain individuals' hearts to fulfill His purposes.

The literal meaning is that God raised up Pharaoh, allowed him to come to power and influence, in order to show His power through the plagues He sent upon Egypt and through the deliverance of the Israelites.

This display of divine power would make God's name known across the earth.

The deeper meaning deals with the concept of divine sovereignty and human agency, prompting reflection on God's purposes in the actions of individuals and nations.

Historical Context

Romans was written by Paul around 57 A.D.

The epistle addresses various issues the early Christian church was facing, including Jewish and Gentile relations, justification by faith, and the righteousness of God.

When Paul refers to Pharaoh, he alludes to the Exodus story, an event that is estimated to have occurred around the 15th or 13th century B.C., although exact dating is debated.

The historical account depicts Pharaoh as the antagonist who opposes the liberation of the Israelites.

By evoking this history, Paul speaks to both Jews and Gentiles who would have been familiar with the narrative of Moses and the Exodus.

Theological Insights

This verse opens a theological dialogue on God’s providence and predestination.

One perspective, Calvinism, sees this verse as evidence of God's unconditional election and reprobation, suggesting that God actively intervenes in the lives of individuals like Pharaoh for His glory.

Arminianism, on the other hand, may interpret this verse as indicative of God’s foreknowledge; Pharaoh hardened his heart, and God used Pharaoh's actions to achieve His purposes.

Open Theism might argue that the verse describes God's response to Pharaoh's actions rather than a predetermined plan.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be applied in daily life through recognizing that difficult situations and opposition may be used for a greater purpose.

It can encourage individuals to consider that their life experiences, especially adversities, may contribute to a larger narrative or be instrumental in impacting others.

Moreover, it provides insight into humility and trust, reminding believers that God is in control and that they can seek comfort in the belief that He has a purpose, even in the face of seemingly negative circumstances.

Cross-References

• Exodus 9:16: "And in very deed for this cause have I raised thee up, for to shew in thee my power; and that my name may be declared throughout all the earth."
• Proverbs 16:4: "The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil."
• Isaiah 45:7: "I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things."
• Daniel 4:17: "This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men..."

Language Study

Key words in Romans 9:17, such as "raised thee up" (Gr. ἐξήγειρά), carry the sense of causing to rise, produce, or allow to appear.

"Shew" (Gr. ἐνδείξωμαι) can be translated as to point out, exhibit, or demonstrate.

"Power" (Gr. δύναμιν) refers to strength or miraculous power. These terms in the original Greek underscore the intentional display of God's might to the world through Pharaoh's situation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of a deity demonstrating power through human leaders is common in ancient cultures. Comparably, in Egyptian mythology, Pharaohs were often considered gods or divine representatives on earth.

However, the narrative in Exodus, and reiterated here in Romans, contrasts with these Egyptian beliefs by positioning the God of Israel as supreme over any presumed divine ruler like Pharaoh.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse doesn't directly intersect with modern scientific understandings in a methodological sense.

However, the plagues described in the Exodus account, which are linked to God showing His power, have been the subject of scientific speculation.

Some researchers have looked for natural explanations for the plagues, suggesting that understanding the scientific background does not diminish the narrative's religious significance but provides a deeper appreciation of the historical context.

Commentaries

Various experts and commentators have offered interpretations of Romans 9:17. John Calvin highlighted God's sovereignty and justice in hardening Pharaoh’s heart.

In contrast, Jacob Arminius emphasized human free will and divine foreknowledge.

Modern commentators such as N.T.

Wright suggest that Paul's point is not to delve into predestination but to reassure his readers of God’s faithfulness to His promises.

Meanwhile, some scholars focus on the rhetorical devices Paul uses to argue his point, noting that his writing style involves citing scripture to communicate difficult theological concepts.