Romans 9 verses 1-13 God Chooses His Chosen People

As Paul begins this important section in Romans, he is speaking the truth in Christ and with great compassion for his people: “I am speaking the truth in Christ–I am not lying; my conscience confirms it by the Holy Spirit–I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart”. These are remarkable words coming from the heart of Paul; he carries a personal burden, but he is also aware that the only one who can relieve him of this burden is God working through the Holy Spirit. Paul exulted in the thought of God’s salvation, but in his joy recognized again that his own people, whom he loved deeply, knew nothing of the joy that was his. A cloud passed over his sun as he contemplated Israel’s rejection of his Lord. Calling Christ and the Holy Spirit as witnesses, Paul affirms his love for the Jews. His greatest joy in His position in Christ is contrasted by the sorrow and grief he feels for his unsaved Jewish brothers and sisters. There is a striking intensity in the apostle’s words as he tries to impress on his readers how genuinely he feels about the condition of his own people. He insists he is telling the truth, adds that he is not lying, appeals to his conscience, and adds the testimony of the Holy Spirit as he speaks of heaviness of heart and continual sorrow. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sermons-from-my-heart--2423678/support.