Useful Bible Studies > Romans Commentary > chapter 11
As we read the Book of Romans, so often the kindness of God astonishes us. We might imagine that his love for Israel would cause him to neglect the people from other nations. However, in fact the opposite is true. God uses his love for Israel to give people from every nation the opportunity to know his love. That is what God promised to Abraham in Genesis 12:3.
When Israel’s people do not obey God, they cannot through their own lives show God’s kindness to the world (2:24). However, God’s character does not change (Hebrews 13:8; Exodus 34:6-7). He still cares about the people, both in Israel and in the other nations (Jonah 4:11). He wants very much to show his kindness to them. During our present age (the period from Christ’s death until his return), God has been very kind to the people in every nation. He has sent his gospel (the good news about Christ) across the world. In every nation, people are becoming Christians and God is working in a wonderful way in their lives. All of this is happening at a time when many of Israel’s people do not have a right relationship with God.
Just before Christ’s return, all of Israel’s people will turn back to God (Zechariah 12:10 to 13:1; Romans 11:25-26). However, that will not end God’s kindness to the other nations. Rather, Christ will come to rule the world (Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 20:4-6). At last, the world will know good government and be at peace. So, Israel’s return to God will cause the whole world to return to him.
Next part: Paul: the apostle to the Gentiles (Romans 11:13)
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