The mystery of salvation.

Romans 11:11 I say then, they did not stumble so as to fall, did they? May it never be! But by their transgression salvation has come to the Gentiles, to make them jealous. God’s wisdom is a mystery! If God had not given national Israel a stupor at the time of Jesus’ coming, they would not have crucified Him. Paul wrote to the Corinthians, 1 Corinthians 2:7-8 “But we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God predestined before the ages to our glory; the wisdom which none of the rulers of this age has understood; for if they had understood it they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” Paul’s point to the Romans was that even though Israel stumbled, they didn’t fall down. Implied is that they fulfilled their role in God’s plan of salvation for the world. Yes, they transgressed when they crucified Jesus, but it was necessary so that salvation could come to the Gentiles—to us who are not descendants of Abraham in the flesh. God did this to make the Jews jealous of the love He has poured out on the Gentiles. As we live to love with Jesus, rejoicing in His love, declaring that we belong to God and are His children, His chosen people, God’s plan was and is to stir a remnant in Israel to jealousy. We are to walk in the promise to Abraham that we are a blessing to the nations as we love with Jesus. May God be glorified today and everyday in His church. Father, fill Your church with abundant grace and abounding love as You accomplish Your will in the lives of those You put in our lives. Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com