by Gary L. Evans
(revised 7/29/2023)
Romans — Part 24
Rom 11:11 I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.
So The Lord blinded Israel when they fell away so that by their apostasy the Gentiles could receive salvation which would in turn make Israel jealous. But this was not for the destruction of the people of Israel, just the fair and just punishment for their rebellion and apostasy, plus a benefit to the Gentiles.
Rom 11:12 Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?
When the people of Israel do come into The New Covenant, then the people of this world will be much better off because even more souls will be returned to our Father and in unity with us.
Rom 11:13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:
Paul is speaking to Gentiles who know God’s Law, no doubt but because Paul or others have taught them. At times he addresses descendants of Israel, and at times Gentiles, so this assembly in Rome must consist of both Israelites and Gentiles.
Rom 11:14 If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.
When an Israelite sees a Gentile who is well versed in God’s Law and who trusts in Jesus, then he or she may become interested in what they have to say. Isn’t that interesting that a Gentile would be studying the books of Moses and the Prophets?
Rom 11:15 For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?
When Israel does return through repentance to God, then they too will receive The New Covenant and Eternal Life.
Rom 11:16-18 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.
Considering Israel to be the Holy Tree that had many branches broken off because of sin, and the Gentiles as branches from a wild tree that have been grafted in, then the Gentiles should not be boastful against the natural branches that were broken off because they as new branches are being nourished by the same roots of that Holy Tree.
Rom 11:19-22 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
We are all in jeopardy for as long as we dwell in these flesh bodies, until we inherit The Promise of Eternal Life. We must maintain self-discipline to avoid being deceived.
Rom 11:23-24 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again. For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?
The tribes of Israel are not dead but are just asleep. And The Lord will receive them back to Him when they repent. As to Paul’s analogy of the Holy Tree, when they repent they will easily be grafted back in because they were the natural branches.
Rom 11:25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Our Father declared that most of Israel would sleep and be blind and deaf, so that the Gentiles could be converted. After the full harvest of the Gentiles has been accomplished, then The Lord will heal Israel of their blindness. Note that Paul speaks on a national level, not on the individual level.
Rom 11:26-27 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
Paul quotes from Isaiah.
Isa 59:20-21 And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD. As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed’s seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.
Whosoever has eyes to see and ears to hear, let him hear.
Romans — Part 25
Rom 11:28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers’ sakes.
The unconverted Hebrews in Jerusalem and in other cities were hostile to the Christians, mainly because the Kenites and the hypocritical scribes and Pharisees were continuously bearing false witness against them in all of the synagogues.
Rom 11:29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
Our Father made promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, so Israel was guaranteed those promises even though they did not deserve them. The Lord does not repent of His Promises. And we can see that the tribes of Israel are blessed in these Last Days according to Promise, even though they are ignorant of their heritage not knowing who they are. Just look at the Caucasian Christian nations of Europe, Britain, America, and Canada and consider their health and prosperity compared to all of the Gentile nations. Why did Great Britain become a Great League of Nations? Why has America become The Greatest Nation on Earth? By the Promises God gave to the forefathers and by the Prophesies concerning the sons of Jacob.
Rom 11:30-31 For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.
So the roles have reversed regarding Israel and the Gentiles. The Gentiles were now trusting in The Righteousness of God through Jesus Christ, but Israel was still suffering from their rebellion and falling away from the faith. And in Jerusalem most were deceived by the liars and hypocrites that operated their illicit money making machine in The Temple, as many of their descendants still are to this very day. We call them “Jews.”
Rom 11:32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
Both the Israelites that had been scattered among the Gentiles as well as the remnant that had returned to Jerusalem after their Babylonian captivity were mostly unbelieving until after our Lord’s death, burial, resurrection, and ascension.
Rom 11:33-34 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?
Paul quotes from Isaiah.
Isa 40:13-14 Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or being his counsellor hath taught him? With whom took he counsel, and who instructed him, and taught him in the path of judgment, and taught him knowledge, and shewed to him the way of understanding?
No one.
Rom 11:35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
This is a quote from Job.
Job 41:11 Who hath prevented me, that I should repay him? whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine.
The Lord created the heavens and the earth, therefore all things belong to Him.
Rom 11:36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
All of creation shows The Glory of God.
Psa 33:6 By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
God alone is wise, and all true wisdom comes from Him.
Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
We are The Lord’s servants.
Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
God has called us out of this world, so we must not focus our affections on the things of this world, but instead on our Father.
Rom 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
All Glory belongs to God, and none of us can do anything on his or her own, but God gives us our talents and abilities. Our eye sight, our hearing, our ability to think and learn and speak and write, every thing we are able to do is the gift of God to us. So we cannot brag about anything.
Rom 12:4-5 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
All Christians are members of The Body of Christ in this world.
Rom 12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
The word “prophesy” is from the Greek “prof-ay-ti’-ah” which means “prediction (scriptural or other).” We primarily prophesy by our study of The Scriptures and subsequent teaching of them to others. But there may be times when we have an intuition about what is happening in our lives, although it is usually only for our benefit and not something appropriate to discuss with others.
Rom 12:7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
The word “ministry” is from “dee-ak-on-ee’-ah” which means “attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the Christian teacher, or technically of the diaconate).”
Rom 12:8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
The word “exhorteth” is from “par-ak-al-eh’-o” which means “to call near, that is, invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation).”
We should do all things in an orderly fashion and maintain our sense of self humility, using our God given gifts appropriately in our service to The Lord.
Whosoever has eyes to see and ears to hear, let him hear.
Romans — Part 26
Rom 12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
The word “love” is from the Greek “ag-ah’-pay” which means “love, that is, affection or benevolence; specifically (plural) a love feast.”
The phrase “without dissimulation” is from “an-oo-pok’-ree-tos” which means “undissembled, that is, sincere.”
The word “abhor” is from “ap-os-toog-eh’-o” which means “to detest utterly.”
The word “evil” is from “pon-ay-ros’” which means “hurtful, that is, evil (properly in effect or influence); figuratively calamitous; also (passively) ill, that is, diseased; but especially (morally) culpable, that is, derelict, vicious, facinorous; neuter (singular) mischief, malice, or (plural) guilt; masculine (singular) the devil, or (plural) sinners.”
Rom 12:10-11 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
The word “slothful” is from “ok-nay-ros’” which means “tardy, that is, indolent; (figuratively) irksome.” We must not be lazy in our work, because ultimately we work for The Lord’s Name’s sake.
Rom 12:12-13 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
The word “saints” is from “hag’-ee-os” which means “sacred (physically pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially consecrated).” These are those people who have been set-aside for service to God. This is another word for “The Elect.”
Rom 12:14-16 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
The word “mind” is from “fron-eh’-o” which means “to exercise the mind, that is, entertain or have a sentiment or opinion; by implication to be (mentally) disposed (more or less earnestly in a certain direction); intensively to interest oneself in (with concern or obedience).”
All of us who have entered The New Covenant are in this world together suffering similar persecutions for our faith. Even when we are separated by long distances we are still united in Spirit. And we are members of The Body of Christ on earth this very day. Let us be of one mind, even The Mind of Christ Jesus.
Rom 12:17-19 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Paul quotes from Deuteronomy.
Deu 32:35 To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.
Our Lord will punish all evil doers in due time. So when it is possible, turn the other cheek and continue on with your life. This is not to say that we may not defend ourselves when necessary, but most of the time it is best to ignore insults and minor offenses and continue about our business.
Rom 12:20-21 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
We must do our best to be innocent of wrongdoing in this world, as much as is possible. We should show kindness and mercy to everyone, even those who do not deserve it.
These precepts are regarding our relationships in general, and especially with members of the assembly. But this is not to say that we should allow the evil minded to deceive and harm people. If we truly love our neighbors and our brothers and sisters in Christ, then we should stand up against the wicked. We should speak boldly to warn people whenever a liar comes into the assembly. Never tolerate false doctrine.
Rom 13:1-2 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
We should do our best to get along with everyone and to submit to the civil laws of government and to the officers of the government. Christians should not be trouble-makers. Most of the time, civil governments are busy maintaining law and order.
Rom 13:3-4 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
It is okay to disagree with political policies as long as we remain peaceable and law abiding, but it would be very foolish and unprofitable to resist the police or to try to start an insurrection.
Rom 13:5-6 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
We should also pay taxes, which is part of remaining law abiding, and do our best to be good citizens in our communities. Christians should try to maintain respectable reputations, because we are representatives of our Lord’s Name in this world.
Whosoever has eyes to see and ears to hear, let him hear.
Romans — Part 27
Rom 13:7-9 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Paul quotes from Leviticus.
Lev 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
God’s Law is The Law of Love.
Mat 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
The Gentiles, not having The Law, will be Judged according to this Law, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Mat 22:36-40 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
As we learn to understand God’s Law, it quickly becomes apparent that the whole purpose of The Law is God’s Love for us and also our Father desires that we love Him in return.
Rom 13:10-14 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
We should love Christ Jesus and focus on serving Him.
Rom 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
We should be gentle with new converts, not expecting that they will understand much of God’s Word to any depth until after they have had enough time to learn.
Rom 14:2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
Some people like to eat meat, but others choose to be vegetarian.
Rom 14:3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
It is lawful to eat clean meats, and it is lawful to eat vegetables. Don’t be critical of a person’s preferences.
Rom 14:4-5 Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
The word “Sabbath” means “rest.” Christ is become our Sabbath Rest, so this precept is now at a much higher level of meaning than simply a physical rest, and ultimately it refers to The Millennial Reign of The King of kings and Lord of lords which will be a Day of Rest for all of God’s Elect. That is the “Sabbath” we must honor.
Col 2:16-17 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
So we may eat clean meats and we may eat vegetables and herbs, or we may abstain. And we may reserve one or more days each week for Christian meetings, or we may meet any day or every day as we choose. And I recommend that everyone take a day off each week to ensure that he gets rest from his labor. Also consider Paul, how he worked six days a week so that he could teach on the Sabbath day free of charge to the assembly.
Rom 14:6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
Each of us should keep a clear conscience before God, according to our understanding of The Lord’s Will. And we should continue to study God’s Word so our understanding will continue to grow.
Whosoever has eyes to see and ears to hear, let him hear.