God's Purpose According To Election
Kenny discusses the ongoing study of the Book of Romans, emphasizing its depth and the importance of understanding God's purpose according to election, particularly in chapters 9, 10, and 11. He highlights Paul's deep grief for the Israelites, expressing a desire for their salvation despite their rejection of God. Kenny explains that not all who are descended from Israel are true Israelites, as God's election is based on His promise rather than lineage. He underscores the significance of God's mercy, stating that it is not based on human will or effort but solely on God's choice. Kenny contrasts the mighty works of God discussed in the first eight chapters with the ways of God revealed in the latter chapters, emphasizing that understanding God's election is crucial for grasping His divine plan. He also addresses the controversy surrounding Israel's role in God's plan, asserting that the church has not replaced Israel. Ultimately, Kenny encourages believers to recognize their status as objects of God's mercy and to appreciate the profound nature of His election and grace.
Outline of Main Points
- Introduction to the Book of Romans and its significance
- Paul's grief for the Israelites
- Understanding God's purpose according to election
- Contrast between God's works and His ways
- The importance of recognizing Israel's role in God's plan
- The significance of God's mercy and election
- Encouragement to appreciate divine mercy and grace
1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, 2 That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: 4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; 5 Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
6 Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: 7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. 9 For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son. 10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.
14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. 17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. 18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.
