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Romans 11:11
Verse
Context
The Ingrafting of the Gentiles
10May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever.” 11I ask then, did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Certainly not! However, because of their trespass, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel jealous.12But if their trespass means riches for the world, and their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their fullness bring!
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Have they stumbled that they should fall? - Have the Jews, now for their disobedience and unbelief rejected, so sinned against God as to be for ever put out of the reach of his mercy? By no means. Are they, as a nation, utterly irrecoverable? This is the sense of the place, and here the prophecy of the restoration of the Jewish nation commences. But rather through their fall salvation is come - The Church of God cannot fail; if the Jews have broken the everlasting covenant, Isa 24:5, the Gentiles shall be taken into it; and this very circumstance shall be ultimately the means of exciting them to seek and claim a share in the blessings of the new covenant; and this is what the apostle terms provoking them to jealousy, i.e. exciting them to emulation, for so the word should be understood. We should observe here, that the fall of the Jews was not in itself the cause or reason of the calling of the Gentiles; for whether the Jews had stood or fallen, whether they had embraced or rejected the Gospel, it was the original purpose of God to take the Gentiles into the Church; for this was absolutely implied in the covenant made with Abraham: and it was in virtue of that covenant that the Gentiles were now called, and not Because of the unbelief of the Jews. And hence we see that their fall was not the necessary means of the salvation of the Gentiles; for certainly the unbelief of the Jews could never produce faith in the Gentiles. The simple state of the case is: the Jews, in the most obstinate and unprincipled manner, rejected Jesus Christ and the salvation offered them in his name; then the apostles turned to the Gentiles, and they heard and believed. The Jews themselves perceived that the Gentiles were to be put in possession of similar privileges to those which they, as the peculiar people of God, had enjoyed; and this they could not bear, and put forth all their strength in opposition and persecution. The calling of the Gentiles, which existed in the original purpose of God, became in a certain way accelerated by the unbelief of the Jews, through which they forfeited all their privileges, and fell from that state of glory and dignity in which they had been long placed as the peculiar people of God. See Taylor.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I say then, Have they stumbled--"Did they stumble" that they should fall? God forbid; but--the supplement "rather" is better omitted. through their fall--literally, "trespass," but here best rendered "false step" [DE WETTE]; not "fall," as in our version. salvation is come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy--Here, as also in Rom 10:19 (quoted from Deu 32:21), we see that emulation is a legitimate stimulus to what is good.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall?.... This is an objection, which the apostle takes from the mouth of an adversary; and the purport of it is, you say that the people of the Jews being blind, have stumbled at Christ and his Gospel, as was prophesied of them, and to which they were appointed; pray what were God's view and end in this? was it that they should fall and perish eternally? if it be so, is not this doing himself, what he forbids others, namely, "to put a stumblingblock before the blind?" Lev 19:14, and can he be excused from cruelty, and rejoicing at the misery of others? or is their stumbling permitted, that they should "all" fall through unbelief, and be cast away? and so it is an objection of the same kind with Rom 11:1; or since they have stumbled, and have thereby fell into a forlorn and miserable condition, are they always to continue in it, as the last clause in the above cited passage suggests? To which the apostle answers, God forbid; neither of these are to be admitted of. The end which God had in view, in suffering the Jews to stumble and fall, was not their destruction, but rather the salvation of the Gentiles; and especially not the destruction of "all" of them, blindness had only happened "in part" to them; for there was a remnant among them according to the election of grace, which should be saved; a chosen number, which obtained life and righteousness by Christ; yea, a fulness of them, how small soever their number might be now, which should be brought in; and still less that they should always continue in this sad condition, their unbelief had brought them into; for the time would come, when there would be a receiving of them as life from the dead, when all Israel should be saved. And at present there appeared nothing ill in view, but rather through their fall, salvation is come unto the Gentiles. That is, the Gospel; which is sometimes called salvation, the Gospel of our salvation, the word of "salvation"; because it is a declaration of salvation by Christ, and is the power of God unto it; or a means made effectual by the power of God to convince persons, both of their need, and of the worth of it, and also a means of the application of it to them, by the Spirit of God: now this came to the Gentiles by the ministry of the apostles, according to the orders and command of Christ; and that through the fall of the Jews, their unbelief and rejection of the Messiah; for the Gospel was first preached to them, but they contradicting and blaspheming it, the apostles turned to the Gentiles, and preached it to them, as the Lord had commanded them: and thus they came to be acquainted with the doctrine of salvation by a crucified Christ, and to have it powerfully applied to their souls by the Spirit of God; when salvation might be said to "come" to them, in such sense as our Lord says it did to Zacchaeus and his house, Luk 19:9, and another end is to be answered hereby; which is for to provoke them to jealousy: that is, to provoke the Jews to jealousy; not in an ill sense, as in Rom 10:19, and as they were provoked upon the first sending of the Gospel to the Gentiles, and the calling of them, when they discovered a great deal of envy, wrath, and bitterness; but in a good sense, as will appear in the latter day, when being convinced of their sin in rejecting the Messiah, and observing the many advantages the Gentiles have received by embracing him, and they have lost by their contempt of him, will be provoked to an holy emulation of them, and be stirred up through their means to seek the Lord their God, and David their King; and thus things will wind about in Providence. The fall of the Jews makes way for the Gospel among the Gentiles; and this having had its effects with them, will be a means of putting the Jews upon serious thoughts about, and a studious inquiry after, the true Messiah, and salvation by him; all which is a full answer to the question, and the objection contained in it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:11 so God made salvation available to the Gentiles: The offer of salvation to the Gentiles is the purpose, not just the result, of Israel’s disobedience. Paul emphasizes that God had the salvation of Gentiles in view all along, and, ultimately, the salvation of many Jews as well. • he wanted his own people to become jealous: The theme of jealousy comes from Deut 32:21, which Paul quoted in Rom 10:19. The sight of Gentiles enjoying the blessings of salvation that God had promised to Israel would spur Jews to desire salvation so they could participate in those blessings as well.
Romans 11:11
The Ingrafting of the Gentiles
10May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever.” 11I ask then, did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Certainly not! However, because of their trespass, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel jealous.12But if their trespass means riches for the world, and their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their fullness bring!
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The God Who Devastates
By Art Katz5.0K55:30DevastationJOB 34:32PSA 119:71ISA 42:8MAT 6:33ROM 11:111CO 2:14REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by urging the audience to humble themselves before God and seek His guidance. He mentions that his books, available in the foyer, are more comprehensive and anointed than his spoken words. The main topic of the sermon is the Holocaust and the speaker emphasizes the magnitude of the devastation caused by the systematic genocide of six million Jews. He highlights the shocking aspect that this atrocity did not occur in a primitive or uncivilized area, but in a supposedly civilized society. The speaker calls for a deeper understanding of the gravity of the situation and a realization that we are living beneath the glory of God. He references the story of Moses and how God called him because he turned aside to see, suggesting that we too need to turn aside from our shallow existence and truly see God.
The Church and Israel
By David Pawson4.6K46:16IsraelPSA 17:8MAT 6:33ROM 11:11ROM 11:24REV 21:1REV 22:4In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the decline of the British empire and the nostalgia associated with it. He emphasizes the importance of looking towards the future rather than dwelling on the past. The speaker also discusses the duty of Christians to stand with and support Israel, particularly during times of great tribulation. He shares a personal story about his wife's battle with cancer and how it deepened his understanding of God's protection and care.
The Time of Jacob's Trouble
By Art Katz3.0K1:07:03Jacob's TroubleISA 6:8JER 31:7ROM 11:11EPH 4:13In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the time of Jacob's trouble, which refers to a period of great suffering and judgment for Israel and the Jewish people. The speaker emphasizes that this judgment is not God's final word, but rather a necessary step towards their salvation and transformation. The speaker references Isaiah chapter 6, where the prophet Isaiah is called by God to deliver a message of judgment to the people. The speaker suggests that the church needs to understand and accept the severity of God's judgment in order to fully grasp the significance of Jacob's trouble.
Dvd 36 the Hebraic Roots of the Faith
By Art Katz2.9K1:06:16ROM 11:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of returning to the roots of faith, recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. It challenges the church to seek God's face, contend for the true faith, and be a distinct people reflecting the God of Israel. The speaker urges a deep repentance, restoration, and a commitment to be a people who worship in spirit and truth, not falling into mechanical forms of worship but seeking a genuine encounter with God.
Ruth
By Jacob Prasch2.4K1:08:29RuthDEU 25:5RUT 1:16ISA 53:3MAT 22:2ROM 11:11EPH 2:12REV 19:7In this sermon, the speaker addresses the relationship between the Church and Israel from the perspective of the bride. He emphasizes the importance of the Church being a woman of excellence, just as the bride is described in the Book of Ruth. The speaker highlights the significance of Jesus as the bridegroom, who is not physically attractive but is still desired by the bride. He also mentions the role of a relative who has the right of redemption, drawing parallels to Jesus' role as the redeemer. The speaker emphasizes the importance of the Church blessing Israel and sharing the gospel with them, as God used the Jews to bring the gospel to the Gentiles in the past.
Fren-02 Born From Above
By Art Katz2.3K1:17:00Born AgainMAT 6:33JHN 3:3ROM 1:16ROM 10:17ROM 11:11ROM 11:251CO 1:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need to overcome resistance and fear in order to experience a transformation. They believe that something significant has happened in heaven, and it will be evident to others as well. The speaker mentions the importance of favoring Zion and the fulfillment of the Gentiles, leading to the deliverance of Israel from their transgressions. They also highlight the upcoming astonishing event at the end of the age, which is seen as God's final act of grace towards the nations. The sermon encourages listeners to be prepared and willing to labor and exert themselves for God's purposes.
(Om Orientation) Spiritual Reproduction - Part 2
By George Verwer2.1K20:19OrientationMAT 26:36JHN 4:27ACT 2:44ACT 8:13ACT 8:31ROM 11:11HEB 5:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipleship and how to effectively disciple someone who has come to Christ. The process involves finding people, presenting the message of the Gospel to them, and training them in the Word of God. The speaker also highlights the significance of seeing specific prayers answered and the transformative power of worshiping and adoring God. The sermon concludes with a prayer for listeners to recognize and fulfill God's will in their lives.
The Cure for Anxious Care
By Paris Reidhead1.8K36:05Anxious CareMAT 6:24ROM 8:12ROM 11:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not setting one's goal solely on money. He shares a story about John Wesley's sermon, where the first point was to save all the money one can, but the third point was to give all that one can. The preacher highlights the need for people that God can trust and bless in our generation. He then focuses on the cure for anxious care, referencing Matthew 6:24-32, where Jesus teaches about not being anxious about food, drink, or clothing, as God takes care of the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. The preacher encourages proper concern but warns against excessive worry, using the example of Israel's journey from slavery to the promised land as a pattern for us.
Dvd 31 the Prophetic Challenge of Israel
By Art Katz1.8K1:18:29EZK 37:1AMO 9:11ZEC 12:10ACT 1:6ROM 11:11ROM 11:33REV 12:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the centrality of Israel in God's redemptive plan, highlighting the need for the church to align with God's prophetic and apostolic intentions. It challenges the church to move beyond shallow experiences and self-centered Christianity, calling for a deep transformation that involves sacrificial love and a willingness to suffer for the sake of Israel's restoration. The speaker urges a return to the truth of God's word, the cross, and the fullness of the Spirit, emphasizing the critical role Israel plays in revealing God's glory and establishing His kingdom on earth.
Finn-04 Restoration of Israel in the Last Days
By Art Katz1.8K57:32RestorationISA 2:3ISA 6:9ISA 55:11ISA 66:8JER 30:7MAT 10:39ROM 11:11In this sermon, the speaker, who is a Jew from New York City, shares his personal journey of living in a remote location in North America. He explains that he was led by the word of the Lord to establish an end time teaching center to provide refuge for Jews in the United States during the time of Jacob's trouble. The speaker emphasizes the urgency of preparing for the coming calamity in Israel and encourages the audience to join a conference tour in Jerusalem to discuss this topic. He also mentions sending out copies of his message to biblical commentators and leaders for their input.
(Romans) Interrogation Explanation Conclusion
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:17:36InterrogationPSA 1:1ISA 10:21ISA 11:5ROM 11:1ROM 11:11In this sermon, the preacher begins by acknowledging that God is faithful to His promises. He specifically mentions God's promise to Abraham and the restoration of Israel as a nation. The preacher then explains that this section in the letter to the Romans is about God's dealings with Israel in the present age. He highlights the importance of understanding God's grace and the justification of believers. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that God has not cast away His people, but rather there is a remnant who are saved by grace.
(Through the Bible) Mark 12
By Chuck Smith1.6K1:13:30PSA 118:22ISA 5:1MAT 21:42MRK 12:1ACT 13:46ROM 11:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of knowing and loving God. He emphasizes that God should be the center of our existence and that our lives should revolve around Him. The preacher also talks about the parable of the vineyard, where the owner sends servants to collect the fruit but they are mistreated and killed. Finally, the preacher expresses his concern about the gimmicks used to raise funds in some ministries and emphasizes the importance of giving with a sincere heart. The sermon references the Bible, particularly the commandment to love God and love our neighbor.
The Future of Israel (Part 2)
By Richard Ganz96253:38Future Of IsraelLEV 23:17NUM 15:17EZK 44:23ROM 11:11In this sermon, the preacher shares a conversation he had with an elderly man who was passionate about karate. Despite his age, the man was still actively involved in full-contact martial arts. The preacher uses this encounter to illustrate that things are not always as they seem, just like God's plan for Israel. He explains that although it may appear that Israel has been cast off, they will be grafted in again according to God's plan. The preacher then delves into a study of Romans 11, emphasizing the importance of not being ignorant of the mystery of God's plan and not being arrogant in our own understanding.
Fren-02 Donn Naissanceau-Dessus (Born From Above)
By Art Katz9501:08:44New BirthROM 1:16ROM 9:15ROM 11:11In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his experience as a young boy working for a plumber and relates it to the concept of spiritual stamina. He shares a story of pushing a bathtub up the stairs and how one of the experienced men told him to put his gut into it, emphasizing the importance of giving one's all. The speaker then draws a parallel between the exertion of childbirth and the rebirth of Israel as a nation. He highlights the significance of Israel's restoration and how it is a testimony of God's grace and mercy to all nations. The speaker concludes by expressing his belief that the time has come for God to favor Zion and bring forth this mystery in the sight of all nations.
Moses, Aaron, and the Golden Calf
By Richard Owen Roberts68456:36EXO 32:7PSA 139:23ISA 63:7ROM 11:11HEB 11:39This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's presence in the midst of revival, highlighting the need to remove hindrances that prevent God from drawing near. It delves into the story of Moses interceding for the people of Israel, showcasing the shift from a threatened final judgment to a remedial judgment through effective intercession. The sermon challenges listeners to see what God sees, feel what God feels, and take action to seek revival and transformation in their lives and nation.
Romans 11 - Part 2
By Art Katz2091:06:29IsraelPSA 51:2MAT 6:33ROM 9:3ROM 11:11ROM 12:1ROM 16:251TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the cataclysmic end that awaits the world, where the kingdoms of darkness and light will engage in a final violent conflict. The church is seen as having the opportunity to demonstrate its faith and be purified during these last days. The centrality of Israel is highlighted, affecting various aspects including the concept of rapture. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging the judgments of God, as they reveal both His severity and goodness. The sermon concludes with a call for the church to recognize the significance of Israel and the need for God's enablement to fulfill its mandate.
Refuse to Be Intimidated by the Error of Replacement Theology
By Mike Bickle401:15:20Replacement TheologyIsrael's Role in God's PlanISA 60:1JOL 3:2MAT 21:43ACT 3:19ROM 11:1ROM 11:11ROM 11:18ROM 11:22GAL 3:29REV 12:17Mike Bickle addresses the issue of replacement theology, urging pastors and believers to overcome the intimidation surrounding discussions about Israel's significance in God's plan. He emphasizes that many church leaders have been silenced by historical theological errors and encourages them to embrace the biblical narrative that affirms Israel's ongoing role in God's purposes. Bickle highlights the recent surge in prayer for Israel among Gentile believers as a pivotal moment in church history, calling for a deeper understanding and engagement with the topic. He warns against the dangers of replacement theology, which has led to anti-Semitism and a lack of preparedness in the church for the end times. Ultimately, he calls for unity and love between Gentiles and Jews as part of God's grand design.
The Battle for Jerusalem: Litmus Test for the End-Time Church
By Mike Bickle221:08:26The Battle for JerusalemEnd Times ProphecyJER 31:7DAN 12:1ZEC 14:2MAT 5:14MAT 23:37ACT 3:19ROM 11:11EPH 5:27REV 12:17REV 19:11Mike Bickle emphasizes the spiritual and military significance of the battle for Jerusalem, asserting that it is a pivotal conflict in the end times that will determine the fate of nations and the church. He explains that Jesus will return as a military leader to reclaim Jerusalem, and this battle is intrinsically linked to Satan's ultimate fate of imprisonment. Bickle calls for believers to engage in this spiritual battle, highlighting the necessity for the church to stand firm in their faith and support God's purposes for Israel. He warns that the battle will force every individual to make a choice regarding their allegiance to Christ, ultimately leading to the purification of the church and the fulfillment of God's promises.
Messianic Conference Report: The Morning After
By Art Katz0Spiritual RevolutionAuthentic WorshipROM 11:11Art Katz reflects on the Messianic Conference, expressing his discomfort amidst the exuberant worship and theatrical performances that seemed to overshadow genuine spirituality. He critiques the shift towards a 'religion' that caters to human comfort rather than a radical return to the roots of faith through Jewish apostles and prophets. Katz emphasizes the need for a transformative movement within Christianity, urging believers to embrace a deeper, more authentic relationship with God, free from the distractions of entertainment and superficiality. He warns against the allure of a Judaistic return that lacks true spiritual depth, advocating instead for a priestly life that prioritizes inner communion with God. Ultimately, Katz calls for a revolution in the Church, igniting a passion for signs, wonders, and a genuine pursuit of the Kingdom of God.
God's Agency in War
By A.W. Pink0Sovereignty Of GodDivine JudgmentPSA 50:1PSA 107:33ECC 3:17ISA 45:7JER 51:20HAB 3:17MAT 22:7ROM 11:11REV 9:20REV 16:7A.W. Pink emphasizes God's sovereignty and agency in the affairs of nations, particularly in times of war and judgment. He argues that just as God punished nations in the Old Testament for their wickedness, He continues to do so today, using calamities as a means to call nations to repentance. Pink highlights that the judgments of God serve to reveal His righteousness and justice, and that the calamities faced by nations should prompt self-examination and humility among believers. He warns against presuming to understand the reasons behind God's judgments, while also acknowledging that the moral failings of nations often lead to their downfall. Ultimately, Pink calls for a recognition of God's authority and a commitment to righteousness in the face of divine judgment.
Exploring Israel's Deliverance Through Zion
By Art Katz0The Role of the ChurchIsrael's DeliverancePSA 14:7PSA 24:7PSA 102:16EZK 20:35HOS 2:14MAT 5:8ACT 3:21ROM 8:19ROM 11:11ROM 11:26Art Katz explores the profound theme of Israel's deliverance through Zion, emphasizing that the ultimate salvation of Israel is tied to the character of the King and His Kingdom, which is embodied in a mature Church. He highlights the necessity for the Church to undergo sanctification and to embody the character of God in order to fulfill its role as an agent of restoration for Israel. Katz draws parallels between the prophetic Scriptures and the Church's responsibility to provoke Israel to jealousy through its own transformation and holiness. He underscores that true dedication to God is essential for the Church to be a powerful instrument in the Last Days, preparing for the return of Christ and the fulfillment of God's promises. The sermon calls for a deep seeking of God and a commitment to holiness as the Church prepares for its pivotal role in the eschatological events to come.
To Provoke Them to Jealousy
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ISA 61:2JOL 3:1MAT 25:31LUK 4:19ROM 9:25ROM 10:20ROM 11:11EPH 3:1Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the profound truth that salvation came to the Gentiles through the fall of Israel, not as a final rejection but to provoke them to jealousy. This divine plan of extending salvation to the nations was foretold in the Old Testament and revealed through Paul, emphasizing God's mercy and wisdom. The apostasy of Israel and the call of the Gentiles were prophesied, showing God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. The Gentiles were to provoke Israel to jealousy by receiving blessings in Christ, leading to the salvation of some of them. Despite historical persecution, there is hope for Israel's future acceptance and salvation.
Simeon's Farewell to the World
By John Piper0ISA 42:6ISA 49:6LUK 1:15LUK 2:29ACT 2:3ROM 9:32ROM 11:11ROM 11:19EPH 5:181PE 2:6John Piper preaches on Luke 2:21-40, focusing on Simeon's Farewell to the World as the central theme of the passage. The aged characters like Simeon and Anna symbolize the passing of the era of the law and the prophets, welcoming Jesus as the fulfillment of their faith. Luke emphasizes the importance of continuity between the old and new eras, showing that Jesus came not to abolish but to fulfill the law and the prophets. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts is seen as a continuation of the Spirit's work in the old era, highlighting the unity between the two. Simeon's prophecy reveals that salvation will extend beyond Israel to all nations, emphasizing the inclusive nature of God's plan for redemption.
What Time I Am Afraid, I Will Trust in Thee
By A.B. Simpson0DEU 7:25LUK 6:38ROM 11:11COL 3:161TI 6:17TIT 3:6JAS 2:10JAS 3:22PE 1:10The preacher delves into the meaning of stumbling (ptaio) in the New Testament, emphasizing its figurative use to denote error, sin, and failure to keep God's law. Through the study of key Bible verses, the sermon explores the concept of stumbling in faith, the importance of diligence in pursuing virtues, and the assurance of believers' entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The preacher highlights the need for believers to diligently seek the sealing of the Spirit, pursue godliness, and make their calling and election sure to secure a rich and abundant reward in the life to come.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Have they stumbled that they should fall? - Have the Jews, now for their disobedience and unbelief rejected, so sinned against God as to be for ever put out of the reach of his mercy? By no means. Are they, as a nation, utterly irrecoverable? This is the sense of the place, and here the prophecy of the restoration of the Jewish nation commences. But rather through their fall salvation is come - The Church of God cannot fail; if the Jews have broken the everlasting covenant, Isa 24:5, the Gentiles shall be taken into it; and this very circumstance shall be ultimately the means of exciting them to seek and claim a share in the blessings of the new covenant; and this is what the apostle terms provoking them to jealousy, i.e. exciting them to emulation, for so the word should be understood. We should observe here, that the fall of the Jews was not in itself the cause or reason of the calling of the Gentiles; for whether the Jews had stood or fallen, whether they had embraced or rejected the Gospel, it was the original purpose of God to take the Gentiles into the Church; for this was absolutely implied in the covenant made with Abraham: and it was in virtue of that covenant that the Gentiles were now called, and not Because of the unbelief of the Jews. And hence we see that their fall was not the necessary means of the salvation of the Gentiles; for certainly the unbelief of the Jews could never produce faith in the Gentiles. The simple state of the case is: the Jews, in the most obstinate and unprincipled manner, rejected Jesus Christ and the salvation offered them in his name; then the apostles turned to the Gentiles, and they heard and believed. The Jews themselves perceived that the Gentiles were to be put in possession of similar privileges to those which they, as the peculiar people of God, had enjoyed; and this they could not bear, and put forth all their strength in opposition and persecution. The calling of the Gentiles, which existed in the original purpose of God, became in a certain way accelerated by the unbelief of the Jews, through which they forfeited all their privileges, and fell from that state of glory and dignity in which they had been long placed as the peculiar people of God. See Taylor.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I say then, Have they stumbled--"Did they stumble" that they should fall? God forbid; but--the supplement "rather" is better omitted. through their fall--literally, "trespass," but here best rendered "false step" [DE WETTE]; not "fall," as in our version. salvation is come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy--Here, as also in Rom 10:19 (quoted from Deu 32:21), we see that emulation is a legitimate stimulus to what is good.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall?.... This is an objection, which the apostle takes from the mouth of an adversary; and the purport of it is, you say that the people of the Jews being blind, have stumbled at Christ and his Gospel, as was prophesied of them, and to which they were appointed; pray what were God's view and end in this? was it that they should fall and perish eternally? if it be so, is not this doing himself, what he forbids others, namely, "to put a stumblingblock before the blind?" Lev 19:14, and can he be excused from cruelty, and rejoicing at the misery of others? or is their stumbling permitted, that they should "all" fall through unbelief, and be cast away? and so it is an objection of the same kind with Rom 11:1; or since they have stumbled, and have thereby fell into a forlorn and miserable condition, are they always to continue in it, as the last clause in the above cited passage suggests? To which the apostle answers, God forbid; neither of these are to be admitted of. The end which God had in view, in suffering the Jews to stumble and fall, was not their destruction, but rather the salvation of the Gentiles; and especially not the destruction of "all" of them, blindness had only happened "in part" to them; for there was a remnant among them according to the election of grace, which should be saved; a chosen number, which obtained life and righteousness by Christ; yea, a fulness of them, how small soever their number might be now, which should be brought in; and still less that they should always continue in this sad condition, their unbelief had brought them into; for the time would come, when there would be a receiving of them as life from the dead, when all Israel should be saved. And at present there appeared nothing ill in view, but rather through their fall, salvation is come unto the Gentiles. That is, the Gospel; which is sometimes called salvation, the Gospel of our salvation, the word of "salvation"; because it is a declaration of salvation by Christ, and is the power of God unto it; or a means made effectual by the power of God to convince persons, both of their need, and of the worth of it, and also a means of the application of it to them, by the Spirit of God: now this came to the Gentiles by the ministry of the apostles, according to the orders and command of Christ; and that through the fall of the Jews, their unbelief and rejection of the Messiah; for the Gospel was first preached to them, but they contradicting and blaspheming it, the apostles turned to the Gentiles, and preached it to them, as the Lord had commanded them: and thus they came to be acquainted with the doctrine of salvation by a crucified Christ, and to have it powerfully applied to their souls by the Spirit of God; when salvation might be said to "come" to them, in such sense as our Lord says it did to Zacchaeus and his house, Luk 19:9, and another end is to be answered hereby; which is for to provoke them to jealousy: that is, to provoke the Jews to jealousy; not in an ill sense, as in Rom 10:19, and as they were provoked upon the first sending of the Gospel to the Gentiles, and the calling of them, when they discovered a great deal of envy, wrath, and bitterness; but in a good sense, as will appear in the latter day, when being convinced of their sin in rejecting the Messiah, and observing the many advantages the Gentiles have received by embracing him, and they have lost by their contempt of him, will be provoked to an holy emulation of them, and be stirred up through their means to seek the Lord their God, and David their King; and thus things will wind about in Providence. The fall of the Jews makes way for the Gospel among the Gentiles; and this having had its effects with them, will be a means of putting the Jews upon serious thoughts about, and a studious inquiry after, the true Messiah, and salvation by him; all which is a full answer to the question, and the objection contained in it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:11 so God made salvation available to the Gentiles: The offer of salvation to the Gentiles is the purpose, not just the result, of Israel’s disobedience. Paul emphasizes that God had the salvation of Gentiles in view all along, and, ultimately, the salvation of many Jews as well. • he wanted his own people to become jealous: The theme of jealousy comes from Deut 32:21, which Paul quoted in Rom 10:19. The sight of Gentiles enjoying the blessings of salvation that God had promised to Israel would spur Jews to desire salvation so they could participate in those blessings as well.