Romans 11:28 – “As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul is describing two realities about Israel. On one hand, many Jewish people had rejected Jesus and opposed the gospel, making them “enemies” of the message. This rejection, however, allowed the gospel to spread to the Gentiles. On the other hand, they were still God’s chosen people because of His promises to their ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

This does not mean that every Jewish person is automatically saved. Instead, Paul is showing that God’s love and purpose for Israel have not been canceled, even though many have rejected Jesus. The idea of Israel being “enemies for your sake” means that their temporary rejection of the gospel opened the door for Gentiles to hear and receive salvation.

At the same time, their rejection is not final. Paul has been emphasizing that God still has a plan for Israel and that many will one day come to faith in Christ.

Historical Context

When Paul wrote this letter (around A.D. 57), the majority of Jewish people had not accepted Jesus as the Messiah. In fact, many religious leaders opposed the early church, just as they had opposed Jesus. Because of this, Paul describes them as “enemies” of the gospel.

However, Paul himself was Jewish and had a deep love for his people. Earlier in Romans, he expressed sorrow that they had rejected Jesus (Romans 9:1-3). He also made it clear that their rejection was part of a temporary process in God’s plan (Romans 11:25-26).

Paul’s words reflect what had happened throughout biblical history. The Jewish people were chosen by God to be His people, yet they often turned away from Him. Even so, God remained faithful to His promises. This was true in the past, and Paul says it is still true in the present.

Theological Implications

1. God’s Sovereignty in Salvation – God’s plan includes both Jews and Gentiles. Israel’s rejection of Jesus led to the spread of the gospel among Gentiles, but God is still working to bring many Jews to faith.
2. The Faithfulness of God – God does not break His promises. His commitment to Israel is based on His covenant with the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob).
3. The Importance of Humility – Gentile Christians should not become arrogant or think that they have replaced Israel. God is still working with Israel, and their future salvation is part of His plan.
4. God’s Love is Unchanging – Even when people turn away from Him, God remains faithful. His love for Israel is not based on their obedience but on His promise.

Literary Analysis

This verse presents a contrast between two perspectives:

• “As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake.” This refers to the fact that many Jews opposed the gospel, which led to its expansion among the Gentiles.
• “As far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs.” This reminds the reader that God’s election (His choosing of Israel) is still in place. The word “election” here does not mean that every Jewish person is automatically saved but rather that God’s special purpose for Israel continues.

Paul uses these two ideas to reinforce a major theme of Romans 11: God’s plan is bigger than human understanding. While it may seem like Israel’s rejection of Jesus is final, Paul assures his readers that God is still working through His promises.

Biblical Cross-References

• Genesis 12:1-3 – God’s covenant with Abraham, in which He promises to bless his descendants.
• Deuteronomy 7:7-9 – God chose Israel, not because of their greatness, but because of His love and His promise to their ancestors.
• Jeremiah 31:35-37 – A prophecy declaring that Israel will never be completely rejected by God.
• Luke 2:29-32 – Simeon declares that Jesus is the light for the Gentiles and the glory of Israel.
• Romans 9:4-5 – Paul lists the blessings given to Israel, including the covenants and the promises.
• Romans 11:1-2 – Paul affirms that God has not rejected Israel.
• Romans 11:11 – Israel’s stumbling is not permanent, and their rejection led to salvation coming to the Gentiles.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness. Even when people reject Him, He does not abandon His plans.

It also teaches humility. Some Gentile Christians in Paul’s time may have thought that Israel’s rejection of Jesus meant they were superior. But Paul corrects this thinking by reminding them that Israel is still loved by God.

This verse also encourages Christians to pray for Jewish people and share the gospel with them. God has a plan for their salvation, and we should desire to see them come to faith in Jesus.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is evident in this verse because it shows His patience and faithfulness. Even though many Jewish people rejected Jesus, God still calls them “loved” because of His promises. His love is not based on human actions but on His unchanging nature.

This verse also reminds us that God’s love extends to all people. His plan included opening the door of salvation to the Gentiles, showing that He desires all people to come to Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the key to understanding this verse. He is the reason why salvation was able to come to both Jews and Gentiles.

• John 1:11-12 – Jesus came to His own people (the Jews), but many did not receive Him. However, those who did were given the right to become children of God.
• Matthew 23:37 – Jesus wept over Jerusalem because they rejected Him, showing His deep love for His people.
• Acts 4:12 – Salvation is found in no one else but Jesus.
• Ephesians 2:14-16 – Jesus broke down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, making them one in Him.
• Romans 15:8-9 – Jesus came to fulfill God’s promises to Israel and to bring salvation to the Gentiles.

Even though many of Paul’s fellow Jews rejected Jesus, their hope still rests in Him. One day, according to Romans 11, many will come to recognize Him as their Savior.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach about God’s faithfulness to His promises?
2. How does this verse challenge pride or arrogance among believers?
3. What does Paul mean when he says that Israel is “loved on account of the patriarchs”?
4. How should Christians respond to Jewish people today in light of this verse?
5. How does this passage help us trust in God’s plan, even when it seems unclear?