What does Romans 9:24 mean?

Explanation

Romans 9:24 states: "Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?" This verse is part of a larger discourse where the Apostle Paul addresses the concept of God's sovereignty in salvation.

The verse emphasizes that God's call to be part of His people is not limited to the Jewish nation but extends also to the Gentiles, which means non-Jews.

In essence, it speaks to the inclusive nature of the Christian message and the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles within the church.

The "us" refers to Christians, implying a diverse group of believers from different ethnic backgrounds.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Romans during the first century, a time when the early Christian church was grappling with its identity and relationship to Jewish laws and customs.

The early followers of Christ were predominantly Jewish and initially saw Christianity as a continuation and fulfillment of Judaism.

However, as more Gentiles came to believe in Jesus Christ, questions arose about whether these non-Jewish converts had to adopt Jewish customs and laws.

By asserting that God's call included Gentiles, Paul affirmed the broader mission of Christianity beyond the confines of Jewish ethnicity and the Mosaic Law.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is significant in several respects.

From a Reformed perspective, it could be interpreted as demonstrating the doctrine of election, where God sovereignly chooses whom He wills to be saved.

From a more Arminian viewpoint, it may emphasize the universality of God's invitation to salvation, available to everyone who believes, regardless of their ethnic background.

The verse also touches on the concept of the "True Israel," which some theologians argue is not defined by ethnicity but by faith in Christ.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Romans 9:24 are profound for community and interpersonal relations.

It argues against religious exclusivity and promotes an inclusive approach to community and fellowship.

In everyday life, this can translate to embracing diversity, breaking down social barriers, and treating all individuals with respect and equality, regardless of their background.

It is a call for unity within the Christian faith, reminding believers that salvation is not limited by race, culture, or nationality.

Cross-References

• Galatians 3:28: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."
• Ephesians 2:14-18: Describes how Christ has brought peace between Jews and Gentiles, breaking down the "middle wall of partition" between them.
• Acts 13:47-48: "For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth."

Language Study

Two key Greek words in this passage are:

• "καλέω" (kaleo), often translated as "called" or "invited," which has the connotation of being summoned or named with a purpose.
• "ἔθνος" (ethnos), translated as "Gentiles," refers to non-Jewish peoples or nations.

This term underscores the universal scope of God's call to salvation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

During the time of Paul, the division between Jews and Gentiles was significant, and such a message of inclusivity would have been countercultural.

In comparison to other ancient religions, which often had national deities and practices, the message of Christianity as transcending ethnic and cultural lines was revolutionary.

This was unlike many ancient myths that typically regionalized deities, tying worship closely to ethnic and civic identity.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives aren't typically relevant to interpreting biblical verses.

However, the field of genetics can shed light on the concept of there being no fundamental differences between humans of different races. Genetic studies show that all humans share a common ancestry, which supports the idea of inclusivity from a biological standpoint.

Commentaries

Commentators have varied interpretations of Romans 9:24.

John Stott, a prominent Christian leader and writer, emphasized that God's mercy in calling the Gentiles is part of the mystery of salvation that Paul explores in Romans 9-11.

Meanwhile, Douglas Moo, a New Testament scholar, notes that this calling of the Gentiles was always part of God's plan and is rooted in the Old Testament prophecies.

Matthew Henry, a classical commentator, interprets this verse as a testament to God's grace, which is not confined to any one nation or people.