Romans 11:25-36 – Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob”; “and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins.” As regards the gospel, they are enemies for your sake. But as regards election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. For just as you were at one time disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience, so they too have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may now receive mercy. For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all. Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.
This final, somewhat controversial section of Romans 11 is a bit complicated, so I wanted to provide some additional questions to help you study Romans 11:25-36, both by yourself and with a group.
Personal Study Questions:
- Paul says that we need to leave some things in the category of “mystery” which means God will figure it out in the future and we can trust Him. What other things would be well-served to live in the “mystery” category and not become overly dogmatic about?
- Which part of 11:33-36 is your favorite thing to remember about God?
- Although it’s an open-handed, secondary issue to be determined by God in the future, which of the two most popular interpretations of this Scripture do you lean toward?
Group Discussion Questions:
- Paul speaks about having hope that people who have rejected God could still have a change of heart and be saved. How does this apply to the personal story of anyone in the group?
- Paul talks about a group of people who walked away from Christ, but he longs that they would return. Who do you know that you feel the same way about?
- Who can you be praying for that they too would have a change of heart and come to Christ?
To find the free Romans 6-11 digital study guide for individuals and small groups, hear Pastor Mark’s entire sermon series on Romans, or find a free mountain of Bible teaching visit realfaith.com or download the Real Faith app.