Romans 11:7

What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded

Romans 11:7 (KJV)

Context

This verse stands at the climax of Paul’s argument about Israel’s unbelief. In the preceding verses, he speaks of a remnant chosen by grace. Here he contrasts the outcome for the nation of Israel as a whole with that of the elect, the chosen ones.

Meaning

The verse begins by acknowledging that Israel, as a nation, has not obtained what it sought. Throughout the Old Testament, Israel yearned for the Messiah and the fulfilment of God’s promises. Yet as a whole, they failed to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and did not receive the salvation they anticipated. This does not mean every individual Israelite rejected Jesus; there were faithful Jewish believers, including the apostles and many early Christians.

In contrast, the election has obtained it. The “election” refers to those whom God has chosen to be saved, both from Israel and from the Gentile nations. These are believers who have embraced Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour and have received salvation through faith. They have obtained forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and a restored relationship with God.

The verse concludes that the rest were blinded. This means the majority of Israel at that time did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah and rejected the gospel. As a result, they were spiritually blinded to the truth of salvation through Christ. This blinding is not arbitrary; it is a judicial act of God in response to their rejection of the Messiah. Israel as a whole sought righteousness by works of the law but failed because they did not seek it by faith. The elect obtained it because it was granted by God’s sovereign choice.

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 explains that this hardening is temporary and serves a purpose in God’s overall plan of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles.

Biblical connections

The contrast between human striving and divine election is central here. Israel sought righteousness by works but failed; the elect received it by grace through faith. This distinction is crucial: salvation is not by human effort but by God’s gracious election. The hardening of the rest also serves God’s purposes, bringing about the salvation of the Gentiles, which in turn will provoke Israel to jealousy.

Application

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 obtain its blessings. The verse serves as a warning against self-righteousness and a call to humility, recognizing that salvation is entirely of God’s mercy. For the believer, it underscores the reality of divine election and the need for vigilance against spiritual blindness.

Reflection

This passage also highlights the mystery of God’s sovereign purposes in history, where even unbelief serves to bring about salvation for others. It calls us to trust God’s wisdom and timing, knowing that His plans are greater than we can see.