Who ARE THE Israelites?
Open Text
Scripture Reference:
"And when I passed by you and saw you struggling in your own blood, I said to you in your blood, 'Live!' Yes, I said to you in your blood, 'Live!'" (Ezekiel 16:6, NKJV)
Introduction
God's Sovereign Choice: Israel's selection as God's chosen people was an act of divine sovereignty, illustrating His mercy and grace.
Covenantal Relationship: The Israelites were given covenants that established their unique relationship with God, highlighting their role in His redemptive plan.
Promise of the Messiah: The lineage of Israel brought forth Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation to all nations.
A Commentary on Romans 9:4-6
Scripture Reference (NKJV)
"Who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen. But it is not that the word of God has taken no effect. For they are not all Israel who are of Israel." (Romans 9:4-6, NKJV)
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Commentary Details
1. Israelites and Their Privileges:
Paul begins by outlining the unique privileges that belong to the Israelites. These privileges include:
Adoption: God chose Israel as His adopted children (Exodus 4:22-23).
The Glory: The visible manifestation of God's presence, often referred to as the Shekinah glory, which dwelled among the Israelites (Exodus 40:34).
The Covenants: The various covenants God made with the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—and later with Moses and David, establishing His promises and relationship with Israel (Genesis 17:2-7).
The Giving of the Law: The Law given to Moses on Mount Sinai, which outlined God's commandments and statutes for Israel (Exodus 20:1-17).
The Service of God: The worship and religious practices, including the priestly services and sacrificial system established in the Tabernacle and Temple (Leviticus 9:6-7).
The Promises: The numerous promises made by God to the Israelites, including the promise of a Messiah and the land of Canaan (Genesis 12:1-3).
2. Lineage and Christ:
Paul emphasizes that the Israelites are from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came. Jesus was born into the lineage of David, fulfilling God's promise that the Messiah would come from the house of Israel (Matthew 1:1-17). This underscores the importance of Israel in God's redemptive plan.
3. Not All Are Israel:
Paul makes a crucial distinction:
"For they are not all Israel who are of Israel."
This statement highlights that true Israel is not solely defined by ethnic descent but by faith in God's promises. True Israel consists of those who embrace and live by the faith of Abraham, whether Jew or Gentile (Galatians 3:7).
Conclusion
Spiritual Israel: The concept of Israel transcends ethnic boundaries, encompassing all who have faith in God and His promises.
Privilege and Responsibility: The privileges of the Israelites come with the responsibility of faithfulness and obedience to God's covenant.
Continuity of God's Plan: God's plan of redemption through Israel continues to unfold, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Unity in Christ: Both Jews and Gentiles who believe in Christ are united as the true Israel, heirs to God's promises.
God's Faithfulness: Despite Israel's shortcomings, God's word and promises remain effective, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness.
Here's a brief summary of commentaries on Romans 9:4-6 from the different commentary sources:
1. Dr. J. Vernon McGee: Dr. McGee emphasizes that the passage highlights the distinction between natural Israel and spiritual Israel. He explains that not all who are physically descended from Israel are part of God's chosen people; rather, it is those who have faith in Christ.
2. Dr. C.I. Scofield: Scofield's commentary focuses on the dual nature of Israel—the physical descendants of Abraham and the spiritual descendants through faith. He clarifies that the promises and covenants belong to those who are spiritually connected to Abraham.
3. John MacArthur: MacArthur delves into the unbelief of Israel and how it aligns with God's sovereign plan. He stresses that being a child of God is not about physical lineage but about being part of the spiritual seed of Abraham through faith.
4. Matthew Henry: Henry's commentary explains that the passage underscores the special privileges and responsibilities of Israel as God's chosen people. He also points out that the true Israel is not defined by ethnicity but by faith in Christ.
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