Ideas for Teaching Romans 11-15
Romans 11:15 is a biblical verse that concerns Paul's efforts to bring salvation to the nation of Israel: "For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?" In isolation the verse makes little sense, but it makes a key point when explained within the larger context of the Book of Romans. There are numerous ways and ideas for explicating this verse to students.
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Background Lecture
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Explain to your students that Romans 11 is a letter written by Paul, who has been called to be an apostle and proclaim the gospel. Paul concludes Romans 10 with a quotation from the Book of Isaiah that the Israelites are "a disobedient and contrary people." Paul took his message to the Jews and was rejected. He then took it to the Gentiles and was accepted. Nonetheless, God has not rejected his chosen people, the Jews. Instead, in Romans 11:15, Paul hopes to save some of his countrymen through provoking them to jealousy by expanding his ministry to the Gentiles.
Interpretation of "Casting Away"
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Discuss with your students the meaning of the phrase "casting away" in Romans 11:15. Consider whether God intends to cast away his chosen people forever, or as a temporary measure while intending to receive them at a later time. Also discuss how verse 11:15 parallels verse 11:12 in describing how the greater world benefits more from Israel's fullness than from its fall.
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Current Events
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Though multiple conclusions may be drawn, discuss Romans 11:15 in the context of current affairs in the Middle East. Romans 11:15 possibly implies a future age in which the Jews accept Christ. As a result, the world will purportedly enjoy what might be described as a resurrection: "life from the dead." For instance, supplementing the verse with passages from Isaiah, the Middletown Bible Church asserts the "new age" will include the abolition of military warfare, perfect government, and the disappearance of disease. Discuss whether this verse implies a literal mass conversion of Jews to Christianity or whether it should be interpreted in a historical context particular to its period.
Application
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Ask your students how Romans 11:15 affects their view of God. For instance, consider whether God appears to be more merciful and generous than was previously thought. If appropriate to the purpose of the class, discuss how this verse will help them actively live the gospel.
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References
Resources
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