God's Words Never Fail
Romans 9 is a confusing chapter on many levels. Particularly, it is famous as a proof text for the doctrine of election, a teaching which raises a variety of questions on the relationship between man’s responsibility and God’s sovereignty. Yet while studying the beginning of this chapter this morning, I noticed a key truth that believers today should find relevant and encouraging. In verse 6, Paul draws out the important principle that God’s word does not fail. Is this the main point of the chapter? No—at least, not entirely. But is it taught in the chapter? Absolutely. Maybe we should step outside the theological battleground for a moment and think about what this principle means for our daily lives.
Paul is expressing great anguish over the fate of his countrymen, the Israelites (vv. 1-2). In verse 3, he gives the reason for this anguish: “For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh.” He is using strong language to say that he wants very much for the Jews to become followers of Christ! Then he proceeds to describe the many blessings God has granted to the Israelites because they are His chosen people (vv. 4-5):
· Adoption—they are God’s own children (cf. Exodus 4:22)
· Glory
· Covenants—special promises that God made to His people
· The giving of the Law
· Worship
· Promises
When comparing God’s promises and gifts toward Israel with its current status, one may wonder whether God is the One at fault. As a whole, Israel rejected its Messiah (v. 32). They pursued righteousness by attempting to keep the Law, but since righteousness is only attainable through faith in Christ, the Gentiles obtained what Israel sought (vv. 30-31). The Gentiles received salvation, and the Israelites, overall, are now destined for judgment. All the evidence suggests that God’s words toward His people have failed (v. 6). Are His promises to preserve, keep, and ultimately save Israel null and void?
Paul asserts, simply and firmly, that the word of God has not failed (v. 6). God’s word cannot fail. He always accomplishes what He says He will accomplish, and what He says always comes to pass (cf. Joshua 23:14; I Kings 13:32; Isaiah 42:9; 55:10-11; Ezekiel 24:14; Acts 26:22). Even when it seems like His plan is coming apart or that He is not doing what He said He would do, He will keep His Word. This is true for Israel, as Romans 11:2 affirms: “God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew.” And this is true for you.
This means that all of the history of Israel in the Old Testament—Israel’s repeated sin, God’s just retribution, and God’s continued reminders that He will not completely destroy the nation—should drive home the point to you that God’s words, against all odds, do not and will not fail.
Think of all the promises God has made to believers in His Word. He will never leave or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6 with Matthew 28:20). He will work all things in your life for the good purpose of making you more like Christ (Romans 8:28-29). He will lead those who walk in step with His precepts (Psalm 37:23-24 with Galatians 5:16-18).
These promises hold true when it appears they do not. When it seems as if God has left you alone to fend for yourself against all the difficulties He has allowed in your life, He is with you. When trials seem senseless, He is making you like Christ. When you are confused about the way to go, walk closely with Him and He will place each step.
When you read Romans 9, don’t worry so much about election and free will. Focus on God’s unalterable purposes, which are illustrated by His faithfulness to Israel. In addition, read God’s other words in the Bible, immerse yourself wholly in them, and trust that they are steadfast and true.
"There is no rock like our God" (I Samuel 2:2c).
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers, Used by permission. All rights reserved.
