QT 12/19/2024 Rom 11:17-24, Nations being cut off the Olive tree

Romans 11:17–24 (ESV) —

17 But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, 18 do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. 19 Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” 20 That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. 21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. 22 Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off. 23 And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. 24 For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree.

 

NOTE: Scripture interprets scripture, and so this passage must fit with other passages which clearly state that an individual cannot lose their salvation. If they could, salvation would be based on works and not on faith -- the very thing that is being argued against in this passage. So, this passage, in context would appear to refer to nations. The nation of Israel has rejected the Messiah and Gentiles nations have accepted the Messiah. In fact, over time, Gentile nations who initially accepted the Messiah have rejected the Messiah, and their branches have already been cut off. I think of Great Britain and other European nations as an example. The US is well on the way to being cut off as well. Individuals, from any nation, are still coming to the Lord, but the work and blessing of God has been removed from many of these places. Someday, the nation of Israel will be restored to the olive tree. That day is coming as soon as the church age ends in the rapture.

 

PONDER:

1. What am I doing to spread the message as the age comes to a close?
2. Does my witness attract or cause others to reject the gospel?

 

PRAYER: Father, I pray for Israel. I pray that their hearts would be softened. I pray for a good witness of the church to them so that when we are gone they will turn to Jesus.