What does Romans 9:28 mean?

Explanation

The verse Romans 9:28 from the King James Version states: "For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth." This verse is speaking about God's plan and purpose, emphasizing the decisive and efficient nature of His work.

It suggests that when God acts to fulfill His promises or execute judgment, He will do so quickly and justly.

The term "cut it short in righteousness" implies a sense of urgency and a focus on right judgment, demonstrating God's commitment to righteous action without delay.

The phrase "a short work will the Lord make upon the earth" reinforces the idea that God’s intervention in human affairs, particularly in matters of judgment and salvation, will be swift and definitive.

It suggests a culmination of events that align with God's sovereign will and reflects His power to accomplish His purposes expediently.

Historical Context

The Book of Romans is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christians in Rome around 57 AD.

The context within which this verse sits is Paul's discussion of Israel's place in God's salvific plan.

Romans chapter 9 is part of a larger section (chapters 9-11) where Paul is grappling with the question of why most of Israel has not accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ.

He discusses God's sovereign choice and mercy in election, using Old Testament examples and quotations to support his argument.

In Paul’s day, the Jewish people understood themselves to be the chosen ones of God, yet the emerging Christian message included the revolutionary concept that Gentiles could also receive salvation through faith in Christ.

Theological Insights

This verse offers significant theological insights into the nature of God's work and His approach to history and judgment.

From a Calvinistic perspective, this underscores the sovereignty of God in salvation, suggesting that He has the power to rapidly accomplish His purposes.

An Arminian viewpoint might emphasize human responsibility in responding to this 'short work,' acknowledging God’s swift actions but also human free will in the unfolding plan of salvation.

The phrase can also be interpreted eschatologically, as some biblical scholars see this "short work" as a reference to the end times, where God will execute judgment and redemption with decisive quickness.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse can be a reminder of the urgency to respond to God's call and live righteously, knowing that God's works are carried out swiftly and without procrastination.

It encourages believers to trust in the promptness and righteousness of God's plans, urging them to align with His will, as the time to do so may be shorter than anticipated.

This speaks to the value of immediacy in spiritual matters and the importance of readiness for God's action in the world.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 10:22-23: "For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness."
• Matthew 24:22: "And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened."
• 2 Peter 3:9: "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."

Language Study

Key words in Romans 9:28 in Greek are:

• "teleio" (τελέσῃ): often translated as "finish" or "complete," indicating the bringing of something to an end or to its intended goal.
• "kolobōsei" (κολοβώσει): translated as "cut short," from the root "koloboo," which means to shorten or abridge.
• "en dikaiosynē" (ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ): "in righteousness." The term "dikaiosynē" refers to the quality of being righteous or just, and in this context, it underscores the righteous nature of God's work.

These terms convey the notions of completion, expedience, and righteousness that are central to the meaning of the verse.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The notion of a divine being completing a work swiftly and righteously can find some parallels in other cultures and religions. In various mythologies, gods often act quickly and decisively, exhibiting their power and authority.

However, the unique Judeo-Christian concept of a singular, sovereign God who directs history and imparts true righteousness contrasts with many polytheistic narratives where deities have diverse agendas and exhibit morally ambiguous behavior.

Scientific Perspectives

Approaching the verse from a scientific perspective requires a different kind of interpretation, as science deals with empirical evidence and natural laws rather than metaphysical concepts like divine judgment or eschatology.

However, one can consider the psychological and social impact of holding a belief in a divine plan that swiftly unfolds. Research in psychology of religion might investigate the effects of such beliefs on human behavior, decision-making, and societal structures.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Romans 9:28.

For example, John Calvin sees the brevity of God's work as an act of mercy to reduce human suffering.

Other commentators like John Wesley interpret the "short work" as a reference to the Christian Church's rapid expansion despite persecution.

Some contemporary scholars suggest that this verse also reflects Paul's imminent expectation of Christ's return and the completion of salvation history, while others believe it to focus on God's judgment on Israel for unbelief.

There is a breadth of interpretations concerning the precise nature and timing of the work God will accomplish.