Romans 9:12 – “Not by works but by him who calls—she was told, ‘The older will serve the younger.’”

Extended Explanation

This verse continues Paul’s teaching about God’s sovereignty in choosing people according to His purpose, not based on human works. Paul is referring to the story of Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. Before they were even born, God declared that the older (Esau) would serve the younger (Jacob). This went against the normal cultural expectation, where the firstborn son typically received the greater inheritance and blessing.

Paul emphasizes that God’s decision was not based on works, meaning neither Jacob nor Esau had done anything to earn God’s favor. Instead, God’s choice was based on His calling—His divine plan that was established before they were even born.

This verse reinforces the idea that belonging to God’s people has never been about human effort, family position, or personal merit. It is entirely based on God’s call and His grace.

Historical Context

The story Paul is referring to comes from Genesis 25:23, where Rebekah was pregnant with twins, and they were already struggling inside her womb. When she inquired of the Lord, He told her:

“Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.” (Genesis 25:23)

This was an unusual statement because in ancient times, the firstborn son was typically given the birthright and the family leadership. However, God made it clear that His plan would not follow human traditions. Instead, He chose Jacob (the younger) over Esau (the older).

Later, this choice played out in their lives:

• Esau despised his birthright and sold it to Jacob for a bowl of stew (Genesis 25:29-34).
• Jacob, despite his flaws, valued God’s promises and eventually became the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.
• Esau’s descendants (the Edomites) eventually served Israel, fulfilling God’s prophecy.

Paul uses this Old Testament example to show that God’s calling has always been based on His will, not human customs or actions.

Theological Implications

1. God’s calling is not based on human effort – Paul makes it clear that Jacob was chosen not because of his works but because of God’s purpose. This teaches that salvation and God’s blessings come by grace, not by human achievement.
2. God’s sovereignty over human history – God determined that Jacob, not Esau, would carry the covenant promise. This was decided before they were born, showing that God’s plans are established before human actions take place.
3. God does not follow human expectations – In the ancient world, the older son was expected to take the lead, but God reversed this order. This teaches that God’s ways are not always what people expect—He chooses according to His wisdom, not cultural norms.

Literary Analysis

Paul is using a direct quote from Genesis 25:23 to support his argument that God’s election is based on His calling, not human works.

• “Not by works” – Paul eliminates the idea that Jacob earned his place.
• “But by him who calls” – Paul shifts the focus to God’s initiative and purpose.
• “The older will serve the younger” – This is a reversal of cultural norms, showing that God’s ways are different from human traditions.

By using this story, Paul is reinforcing the larger theme of Romans 9—that God’s choices are based on His sovereign plan, not on human merit.

Biblical Cross-References

• Genesis 25:23 – God’s prophecy to Rebekah about Jacob and Esau.
• Genesis 25:29-34 – Esau sells his birthright, showing his disregard for God’s blessing.
• Malachi 1:2-3 – “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated,” emphasizing God’s sovereign choice.
• Ephesians 1:4-5 – God chose believers before the foundation of the world.
• 2 Timothy 1:9 – God calls people not because of their works, but because of His purpose and grace.
• Romans 8:30 – Those whom God calls, He justifies.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a reminder that God’s calling is based on His grace, not on human effort. Many people today believe that being religious, doing good deeds, or coming from a Christian family makes them right with God. But Paul is clear: God’s call is not based on works, but on His will.

For believers, this means:

• We don’t earn God’s favor—He calls us by His grace.
• God’s plans are often different from human traditions—we must trust His ways over our expectations.
• Salvation is completely a gift—just as Jacob was chosen before he did anything, so we are saved not by our works, but by God’s mercy.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

At first, some might think that if God chooses one person over another, it seems unfair. But this verse actually highlights God’s love and mercy:

1. God’s love is based on His grace, not human effort – No one can earn His love, but He freely gives it.
2. God’s love is personal and purposeful – He chose Jacob before birth, showing that He is deeply involved in the lives of His people.
3. God’s love reaches beyond human expectations – Even though Jacob was the younger and less likely choice, God still loved and called him.

This teaches us that God’s love is not about what we bring to the table—it is about His sovereign mercy.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse ultimately points to Jesus Christ, because He is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s calling and purpose.

• Jesus is the chosen one – Just as Jacob was chosen over Esau, Jesus is the chosen Savior who brings God’s promises to fulfillment (Luke 9:35).
• Salvation through Jesus is based on grace, not works – Just as Jacob’s selection was not based on works, our salvation is based on faith in Christ, not our own efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9).
• Jesus came to serve, not to be served – While Jacob was chosen over Esau, Jesus reversed expectations by becoming a servant to save humanity (Mark 10:45).

Ultimately, Paul’s message in Romans 9:12 leads to the larger truth of the gospel: God’s calling and salvation are given freely through Jesus Christ, not earned by human effort.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach about God’s sovereignty in choosing people?
2. How does this verse challenge the idea that people can earn God’s favor through their works?
3. Why do you think God often chooses the unexpected (like Jacob over Esau) to fulfill His plans?
4. How does this verse help you trust in God’s plans, even when they don’t make sense to you?
5. How does this verse deepen your understanding of Jesus and the way God brings salvation?