Romans 11:7
Romans 11:7 (KJV) says, “What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.” This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Romans where the apostle Paul discusses God’s plan for Israel and the Gentiles. In the preceding verses, Paul talks about the remnant of Israel that God has chosen by grace. In verse 7, he contrasts the outcome for the nation of Israel as a whole with that of the elect or chosen ones.
The verse begins by acknowledging that Israel, as a nation, has not obtained what it sought after. Throughout the Old Testament, we see Israel’s yearning for a Messiah and the fulfilment of God’s promises. However, as a whole, they failed to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and did not receive the salvation they were anticipating. This does not mean that every individual Israelite rejected Jesus, as there were faithful Jewish believers, including the apostles and many early Christians.
In contrast to Israel as a whole, the elect or chosen ones have obtained what they sought. The “election” refers to those whom God has chosen to be saved, both from Israel and from the Gentile nations. These are the believers who have embraced Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour and have received salvation through faith. They have obtained the blessings and benefits of salvation, including forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and a restored relationship with God.
The verse concludes by stating that the rest of Israel, apart from the elect, were blinded. This means that the majority of Israel, at that time, did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah and rejected the gospel message. As a result, they were spiritually blinded to the truth of salvation through Christ.
It is important to note that this verse describes the situation in Paul’s time and should not be interpreted as a permanent state for Israel or any individual. In the following verses, Paul goes on to explain that this hardening of Israel’s hearts is temporary and serves a purpose in God’s overall plan of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles.
Overall, Romans 11:7 highlights the contrast between the unbelief of Israel as a whole and the faith of the elect, emphasizing the importance of faith in obtaining salvation. It reminds us that salvation is a gift of God’s grace and that it is through faith in Jesus Christ that we can obtain the blessings of salvation.
