- Home
- Bible
- Romans
- Chapter 11
- Verse 11
Romans 11:25
Verse
Context
All Israel Will Be Saved
24For if you were cut from a wild olive tree, and contrary to nature were grafted into one that is cultivated, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!25I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you will not be conceited: A hardening in part has come to Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. 26And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will remove godlessness from Jacob.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I would not - that ye should be ignorant of this mystery - Mystery, μυστηριον, signifies any thing that is hidden or covered, or not fully made manifest. The Greek word seems to have been borrowed from the Hebrew מסתר mistar, from the root סתר sathar, to hide, conceal, etc.; though some derive it from μυεισθαι, to be initiated into sacred rites, from μυειν, to shut up. In the New Testament it signifies, generally, any thing or doctrine that has not, in former times, been fully known to men: or, something that has not been heard of, or which is so deep, profound, and difficult of comprehension, that it cannot be apprehended without special direction and instruction: here it signifies the doctrine of the future restoration of the Jews, not fully known in itself, and not at all known as to the time in which it will take place. In Rom 16:25 it means the Christian religion, not known till the advent of Christ. The apostle wished the Romans not to be ignorant of this mystery, viz. that such a thing was intended; and, in order to give them as much instruction as possible on this subject, he gives them some characteristic or sign of the times when it was to take place. Lest ye should be wise in your own conceits - It seems from this, and from other expressions in this epistle, that the converted Gentiles had not behaved toward the Jews with that decorum and propriety which the relation they bore to them required. In this chapter the apostle strongly guards them against giving way to such a disposition. Blindness in part is happened to Israel - Partial blindness, or blindness to a part of them; for they were not all unbelievers: several thousands of them had been converted to the Christian faith; though the body of the nation, and especially its rulers, civil and spiritual, continued opposed to Christ and his doctrine. Until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in - And this blindness will continue till the Church of the Gentiles be fully completed - till the Gospel be preached through all the nations of the earth, and multitudes of heathens every where embrace the faith. The words πληρωμα των εθνων may be borrowed from the מלא הגוים melo haggoyim, a multitude of nations, which the Septuagint translate by πληθος εθνων. By the πληρωμα, or fullness, a great multitude may be intended, which should be so dilated on every hand as to fill various regions. In this sense the words were understood by Solomon ben Melec, ארצות הגוים שימלאו מהם. The nations of the Gentiles shall be filled with them: the apostle, therefore, seems to give this sense of the mystery - that the Jews will continue in a state of blindness till such time as a multitude of nations, or Gentiles, shall be converted to the Christian faith; and the Jews, hearing of this, shall be excited, by a spirit of emulation, to examine and acknowledge the validity of the proofs of Christianity, and embrace the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ. We should not restrict the meaning of these words too much, by imagining, 1. That the fullness must necessarily mean all the nations of the universe, and all the individuals of those nations: probably, no more than a general spread of Christianity over many nations which are now under the influence of Pagan or Mohammedan superstition may be what is intended. 2. We must not suppose that the coming in here mentioned necessarily means, what most religious persons understand by conversion, a thorough change of the whole heart and the whole life: the acknowledgment of the Divine mission of our Lord, and a cordial embracing of the Christian religion, will sufficiently fulfill the apostle's words. If we wait for the conversion of the Jews till such a time as every Gentile and Mohammedan soul shall be, in this especial sense, converted to God, then - we shall wait for ever.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For I would not . . . that ye should be ignorant of this mystery--The word "mystery," so often used by our apostle, does not mean (as with us) something incomprehensible, but "something before kept secret, either wholly or for the most part, and now only fully disclosed" (compare Rom 16:25; Co1 2:7-10; Eph 1:9-10; Eph 3:3-6, Eph 3:9-10). lest ye should be wise in your own conceits--as if ye alone were in all time coming to be the family of God. that blindness--"hardness" in part is happened to--"hath come upon" Israel--that is, hath come partially, or upon a portion of Israel. until the fulness of the Gentiles be--"have" come in--that is, not the general conversion of the world to Christ, as many take it; for this would seem to contradict the latter part of this chapter, and throw the national recovery of Israel too far into the future: besides, in Rom 11:15, the apostle seems to speak of the receiving of Israel, not as following, but as contributing largely to bring about the general conversion of the world--but, "until the Gentiles have had their full time of the visible Church all to themselves while the Jews are out, which the Jews had till the Gentiles were brought in." (See Luk 21:24).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I would not, brethren,.... The apostle in order to raise the attention of the Gentiles to what he was about to deliver to them, not only styles them "brethren", expressing his affection for them, and their relation to him and other believing Jews, and to one another, being all one in Christ Jesus, partakers of the same grace, and heirs of the same glory; but also tells them, that what he had to acquaint them with was a "mystery", a thing secret and hidden, which had not been heard of and known, at least not so fully and clearly as he was about to reveal it; and because of his great respect for them, he was unwilling, as he says, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery; he was desirous that they should abound and improve in all spiritual knowledge and judgment, and, among the rest, be better informed of this particular article, the call of the Jews: and his view in apprizing them of it is expressed in the following clause, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits: lest they should imagine that they were the only wise and knowing persons, and be elated in their minds with their knowledge and understanding, and look with contempt upon the poor, blind, ignorant Jews, as if they were always to remain in such a state of darkness and infidelity. The thing he had to inform them of is, that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in; by Israel is meant the Jews, the descendants of Jacob, whose name was Israel. Philo the Jew observes (b), that this name signifies , "the vision of God"; indeed, Jacob had it given him when he wrestled with the angel, and saw God face to face, though it does not seem to be for that reason; however, blindness had now befallen the Jews, who had been favoured with a divine revelation, with the knowledge of God, his will and worship; and none were more blind than those who were called the servants and messengers of the Lord of hosts, as the Scribes and Pharisees, the priests and princes of the Jewish world. This "blindness" designs their unbelief, the hardness of their hearts, and darkness of their understandings with respect to God himself, whom they knew not in Christ; not as the Father of Christ; nor even the perfections of his nature, particularly his righteousness; which was the reason of their setting up their own righteousness, and of their non-submission to the righteousness of Christ: they were blind as to the Messiah; they knew him not, when he came; they saw no beauty and comeliness in him; could not discern the characters of him in Jesus, though they were so manifest; and rejected him notwithstanding the clear evidence of his ministry and miracles. They were in the dark about the sense of the prophecies of the Old Testament; a vail was upon their hearts when they read them, so that they understood them not, and could not see their accomplishment in Christ; they were even ignorant of the law, the spiritual nature, true use, and right end and scope of it; and it is no wonder that the Gospel should be hidden from them. This blindness "happened" to them not by chance, but befell them by the decree, and according to the will of God, who hardens whom he pleases; and according to various predictions in the Old Testament, cited in Mat 13:14; and in righteous judgment, for since they liked not to retain God and his Christ in their knowledge, it was but just in God to give them up to reprobate minds, to judicial blindness, and hardness of heart: but then this blindness only happened to them "in part"; not that it was only in some measure or some degree, for it was total, they were darkness itself, and had no spiritual and evangelic light at all on whom it fell; but that this blindness was not general with respect to persons, there were some few, a seed, a remnant, that were delivered from it, though the far greater part of the nation were involved in it, and continue in it to this day; and will do, "until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in": that is, till the whole number of God's elect among them, be called and brought into the Gospel church state, which in the latter day will be very great; when the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea; when the kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord and his Christ; and the abundance of the sea shall be converted, and the forces of the Gentiles shall come to the church, and multitudes of them shall flock thither, as doves to their windows: and since the blindness of the Jews is not yet removed, it seems plain that the full number of God's chosen ones among the Gentiles is not yet completed in regeneration; for as soon as ever they are all called and brought in, the vail will be taken away from the Jews, and they will be turned unto the Lord. (b) De Temulentia, p. 251. & De Sacrificiis Abel & Cain, p. 151.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:25 Paul usually uses the word mystery to refer to an event of the last days that has already been determined by God. Such a mystery already exists in heaven and is revealed to God’s people in the Christian era (see 16:25; 1 Cor 2:1, 7; 4:1; 15:51; Eph 1:9; 3:3, 4, 9; 6:19; Col 1:26, 27; 2:2; 4:3; 1 Tim 3:9, 16). Here, the mystery is the relationship of Jews and Gentiles in the plan of salvation, which is at the heart of this entire passage (Rom 11:11-32).
Romans 11:25
All Israel Will Be Saved
24For if you were cut from a wild olive tree, and contrary to nature were grafted into one that is cultivated, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!25I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you will not be conceited: A hardening in part has come to Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. 26And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will remove godlessness from Jacob.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Uniqueness of Israel - Part 2
By Derek Prince7.4K37:30IsraelISA 60:12EZK 36:22EZK 36:26MAT 1:1MAT 24:14ROM 11:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the ultimate goal of God's plan for His people: to dwell in the land and be in a covenant relationship with Him. The speaker uses the analogy of a sculptor working on a sculpture to illustrate that God is still working on His people and they should not be criticized. The sermon also highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in enabling believers to obey God's commandments. The speaker addresses the misconception that the Jews will only return to the land after acknowledging Jesus as their Messiah, stating that this is not God's thought.
The New Year as God Sees It
By A.W. Tozer5.1K41:07New YearsJOB 23:6PSA 85:8MAT 12:31MAT 24:6ROM 11:25In this sermon, the preacher addresses the fear and uncertainty that people are experiencing in the world today. He emphasizes that despite the fear, believers should take comfort in the fact that God is always with them. The preacher shares a story about a father comforting his scared child in the dark, highlighting the presence of Jesus in our lives. He also mentions listening to news reports predicting the future, but asserts that no one can truly predict what will happen. The sermon concludes with a call to reflect on past mistakes, trust in God for a better future, and not rely on oneself.
True Foundations
By Art Katz3.4K1:14:39Last DaysROM 11:25In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a conference in Berlin on Israel, where he witnessed contrived and engineered performances that claimed to be concerned for Israel but did not bring any benefit to Jews or Germans. He emphasizes the importance of waiting for God's authentic work instead of relying on man-made efforts. The speaker also highlights the discomfort and outlandish nature of a prophet, who is often out of joint and out of time. He concludes by referencing biblical prophecies about the future suffering and devastation of Israel, emphasizing the need for genuine repentance and reliance on God's timing.
A Great Revival Is Coming
By Rolfe Barnard3.0K49:51JER 31:18ZEC 11:12MAT 7:21MAT 16:18JHN 3:3ROM 11:25EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for revival in the church. He mentions that two things are necessary for revival to occur, which are closely knit bonds of love among believers and the constant proclamation of Jesus as the crucified and exalted Lord. The preacher criticizes the current portrayal of Jesus in churches, stating that the Jesus preached today lacks power and cannot save. He highlights the importance of revival and mentions that it is a work of God that cannot be controlled or explained. The preacher encourages believers to have faith in a big God and to strive for unity in the body of Christ in order to experience the power of the gospel.
End Times Prophecies - Part 2
By Derek Prince2.5K28:35MAT 24:12ROM 11:25This sermon by Derek Prince Ministries emphasizes the importance of repentance in the world and the church, highlighting the consequences of lawlessness leading to lovelessness among Christians. It delves into the significance of enduring in faith to stay saved and the responsibility of the church to preach the gospel of the kingdom to all nations before the end comes. The sermon also discusses the prophetic signs related to the abomination of desolation and the urgency for believers to act swiftly when the time comes.
The Antiochal Church
By Art Katz2.5K1:19:56ApostolicMAT 13:9MRK 13:37JHN 9:4ROM 11:251CO 2:9EPH 1:17REV 1:8In this video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not missing the mind of God in every occasion, especially when it comes to hearing the word of God. The speaker mentions that there have been extraordinary statements made recently that reveal how far God is going and the urgency of the times. The theme of the mystery of Israel and the church is central in these discussions, and the speaker encourages people to consult the inspirational tape library for more information. The speaker concludes by praying for the impact of God's word on the listeners, both those present and those who will hear the tape.
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.
(Revelation) Revelation 10:7-11:15
By Zac Poonen1.9K1:01:34ROM 11:252CO 12:22TH 2:71TI 3:16REV 10:8REV 11:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of truly digesting and applying the word of God in our lives. He contrasts this with the idea of simply chewing on the word without allowing it to penetrate our hearts. The speaker also mentions the mystery of godliness, which is Christ manifest in the flesh and his bride, the church, and the mystery of iniquity, which is Satan manifest in the flesh and his false harlot church. The sermon also touches on the concept of grace and judgment, highlighting the need for believers to not only receive the grace of God but also to judge themselves and allow the word of God to convict and transform them.
The Israel of God - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.4K48:45IsraelMAT 6:33MAT 22:14LUK 14:15LUK 15:1ROM 11:25COL 1:16REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of the great supper and the great invitation from the Gospel of Luke. He emphasizes that this story is not unrelated to the topic being discussed in the conference. The speaker explains that there are two interpretations of this story: a dispensational interpretation and a wider interpretation in relation to the kingdom of God. He highlights the importance of having a consciousness of God and hungering for His things, as this will lead us to go a long way in our spiritual journey. The speaker also emphasizes that God has made a great provision for us and invites us to come, as all things are now ready.
K-505 Israel as the Missing Key
By Art Katz1.1K1:22:43IsraelPSA 102:15MAT 6:33ACT 1:8ROM 11:11ROM 11:16ROM 11:25In this sermon, the speaker discusses the ultimate demonstration that the church is called to be. He emphasizes that the church should strive to impress and move those who have historically been hostile and resistant to the message of God. The speaker acknowledges that the Jewish people have been critical of false televangelists and praises their discernment. He also highlights the importance of authentic love in the church, as it is what God waits for in his servants. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about encountering a Jewish person and experiencing the presence and glory of God.
K-463 Death and Resurrection of Israel (1 of 2)
By Art Katz9601:10:34IsraelROM 11:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of authentic unity and obedience to God's word. They highlight the power of God to perform miracles and deliverance when His people are in agreement and obedience. The speaker also emphasizes the need for consistent obedience in order to be prepared for ultimate prophetic obedience. They caution against relying on contrived ecumenical arrangements and instead emphasize the importance of genuine unity rooted in a shared commitment to God's word. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to discipline themselves in studying and applying the word of God, even when they don't feel like it.
The Discipline of Detail - 16
By Jack Hibbs9331:02:07DisciplinePSA 118:23MAT 21:42MAT 28:18ROM 11:25PHP 1:211TH 5:18JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of slowing down and taking time to appreciate the spiritual matters in life. He criticizes the fast-paced nature of society and how it affects churches and Christian programming. The speaker reminds the audience of God's unchanging nature and encourages them to trust in Him. The sermon also focuses on the discipline of detail, highlighting the significance of living a purposeful life centered around Christ.
Suffering for the Sake of the Body - Lesson 2
By John Piper85923:24GEN 1:3MAT 6:33ACT 26:18ROM 11:252CO 4:42CO 4:62TI 2:24In this sermon, John Piper discusses the role of believers in sharing the gospel with those who are in bondage to sin. He emphasizes the importance of behaving with kindness and patience, while also correcting those who oppose the truth. Piper encourages believers to boldly preach the gospel to open the eyes of those who are spiritually blind and lead them to repentance and knowledge of the truth. He also highlights God's sovereignty over Satan's spiritual captivity and reminds believers that all things belong to God and bring Him glory.
Finn-03 Israelintulevakriisi (Israel's Future Time of Trouble)
By Art Katz72055:05IsraelJER 31:2MAT 6:33ROM 11:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for Jews to see the glory of God, even in creation. He mentions how the supernatural nature of God can sometimes offend our rational minds. The preacher also talks about a specific group of people who are addressed in the Bible and are told to be strong and not fear, as God will come to them. He shares a personal story of being called by God to prepare a place of refuge for Jews in the wilderness and how they have faced testing and challenges in their journey. The sermon concludes with a reference to Isaiah 35 and the significance of rivers breaking forth out of dry ground.
Nor-02 Mysteriumisraelog Kirken (The Mystery of Israel and the Church)
By Art Katz58504:11IsraelDivine MysteryIsrael and the ChurchISA 49:6ZEC 12:10MAT 5:14JHN 4:22ROM 9:1ROM 10:1ROM 11:25GAL 3:28EPH 2:11REV 7:4Art Katz emphasizes the critical relationship between Israel and the Church, presenting it as a divine mystery that must not be ignored. He explains that both Israel and the Church share a reciprocal destiny, where neither can fully realize God's intentions independently of the other. Katz warns that neglecting this connection limits the Church's understanding of its purpose in the last days. He references Paul's teachings in Romans 9, 10, and 11, highlighting the importance of recognizing Israel's role in God's plan. The message calls for the Church to be aware of the significant events that are unfolding regarding Israel.
Effectual Prayer Empowered by the Spirit
By Don Currin57234:15ROM 11:25GAL 4:4EPH 1:16EPH 3:14EPH 4:13EPH 6:18COL 1:9This sermon delves into Paul's prayer in Ephesians chapter 3, emphasizing the essence of revival praying and the need for a visitation from God. Paul's prayer focuses on believers being strengthened by the Spirit to experience Christ dwelling in their hearts, rooted in love, comprehend the vast love of Christ, and be filled with all the fullness of God. The sermon highlights the desperate need for effectual prayer, the Spirit's enablement, and the pursuit of experimental reality in encountering God's presence and fullness.
A Great Revival Is Coming - Rolfe Barnard
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons41750:04RevivalRadioHope in GodROM 11:25Rolfe Barnard emphasizes the imminent arrival of a great revival, asserting that the church has yet to realize its full glory, but it will. He discusses the necessity of recognizing Jesus as the true sin offering and the exalted Lord, which is essential for genuine revival. Barnard encourages believers to maintain hope and actively seek a deeper relationship with God, as revival will be marked by a profound mourning for Christ and a desire for personal connection with Him. He warns against complacency and urges the church to confront the world with the true message of Christ. Ultimately, Barnard believes that revival will begin in Jerusalem and spread globally, transforming lives and communities.
Missing Link
By Art Katz2681:25:34Christian LifeISA 66:23MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 11:11ROM 11:15ROM 11:25In this video, the speaker begins by acknowledging that the sermon is being recorded and expresses gratitude for the select congregation. He then proceeds to focus on Romans 11:11 and emphasizes that this chapter should not be considered separate from chapters 9 and 10. The speaker highlights that Paul's statement on the mystery of Israel is a central part of his apostolic theology and not just an addendum. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding the magnitude of God's glory and the opportunity for believers to participate in a concluding event that affects his glory forever.
The Fullness of the Gentiles: Provoking Israel, Part 4
By Mike Bickle2558:05The Role of Gentiles in SalvationUnderstanding God's PlanROM 11:25Mike Bickle emphasizes the urgency for Gentile believers to understand God's plan for Israel as outlined in Romans 11. He warns that ignorance can lead to arrogance and ultimately jeopardize their faith, especially as the end times approach. Bickle highlights three key aspects of this mystery: the partial blindness of Israel, the fullness of the Gentiles, and the eventual salvation of all Israel. He calls for a deeper revelation and a humble response to God's unfolding plan, urging believers to engage in prayer and seek understanding to avoid spiritual complacency. The sermon serves as a pastoral plea for awareness and action among the Gentile church regarding their role in God's redemptive history.
The Fullness of the Gentiles: Provoking Israel, Part 3
By Mike Bickle2557:41Unity of BelieversIntercession for IsraelROM 11:25Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Romans chapter 11, illustrating that it speaks not only about Israel but also about the church as Messianic Israel, highlighting the unity of Jews and Gentiles in God's plan. He recounts a prophetic encounter from 21 years ago that foretold a global youth movement aimed at interceding for Israel, which he believes is unfolding today. Bickle warns against ignorance and arrogance among Gentile believers, urging them to understand their role in provoking Israel to jealousy through their faith and revival. He outlines three key aspects of God's mystery: the temporary blindness of Israel, the fullness of the Gentiles, and the ultimate salvation of all Israel. The sermon calls for a deep commitment to prayer and understanding of God's overarching plan for unity and revival.
God's End-Time Prophetic Plan: 3 Essential Parts
By Mike Bickle251:13:32Israel and the ChurchEnd Times ProphecyROM 11:25Mike Bickle emphasizes the critical importance of understanding Romans chapter 11, which outlines God's end-time prophetic plan concerning Israel and the Gentiles. He explains that this chapter reveals a mystery about Israel's temporary spiritual blindness, the coming fullness of the Gentiles, and the eventual salvation of all Israel. Bickle warns against ignorance and arrogance regarding this mystery, urging believers to recognize their role in provoking Israel to jealousy through love and support. He stresses that the church's response to Israel will significantly impact their spiritual safety and the unfolding of God's plan in the end times.
The Incomparable Church
By G.W. North0The Nature of the ChurchDivine Order in WorshipMAT 16:18ACT 2:42ROM 11:251CO 12:12GAL 3:28EPH 2:19COL 1:18HEB 10:251PE 2:9REV 21:2G.W. North emphasizes the unique nature of the Church as it transitions from its Jewish roots to a Gentile fullness, as illustrated by the writings of Luke and Paul. He argues that the Church must adhere to the inspired form of worship and order established in the New Testament, particularly in Paul's letters, to avoid misguided human interpretations. North asserts that the Church, like God, is incomparable and should not deviate from its divine institution. Any attempt to create a church that strays from this model is fundamentally flawed and cannot match the original intent of God. Ultimately, the true Church must strive to reflect the nature and order that God has ordained.
Israel and the Apocalypse: A Hermeneutical Key for All the Faith
By Art Katz0Israel's RoleApocalyptic MessagePSA 102:13ISA 35:6ZEC 8:23MAT 25:40ROM 11:25Art Katz emphasizes the significance of Israel's message as a vital hermeneutical key for understanding the Book of Revelation and the urgency of God's judgments in the last days. He argues that this message compels believers to engage deeply with their faith, countering spiritual complacency and deception. Katz highlights the importance of responding to the needs of the Jewish people, as it relates to righteousness and eternal reward, and calls for a prophetic presence that brings healing and restoration to Israel. He believes that through God's judgments and mercy, Israel will ultimately fulfill its divine mission to glorify Him among the nations.
The Church - Its Nature, Principles and Vocation
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spirituality vs. MysticismNature of the ChurchJHN 1:13JHN 3:6JHN 4:20ACT 7:38ROM 11:25GAL 1:16EPH 1:17EPH 3:10EPH 6:12HEB 8:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the Church as a significant battleground in history, highlighting the various perspectives on its nature and local expressions. He discusses the challenges faced by the Church, including the belief in its ruin and the need for a return to New Testament principles. Sparks argues that true local expressions of the Church are possible through a spiritual revelation of Christ, which is essential for understanding its true nature. He contrasts spirituality with mysticism, asserting that genuine spirituality arises from a new birth by the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the Church as the embodiment of the mystery of Christ, which is revealed to believers through divine illumination.
The General Spread of the Gospel
By John Wesley0Global EvangelismHope in God's PromisesISA 11:9ROM 11:25John Wesley addresses the dire state of the world, highlighting the overwhelming presence of ignorance and vice among the majority of humanity, with only a small fraction professing Christianity. He emphasizes the need for the Gospel to spread universally, as prophesied in Isaiah 11:9, where the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord. Wesley expresses hope that God will work through His Spirit to transform hearts and nations, leading to a time when all will know Him. He reassures that despite current darkness, God's plan for redemption and holiness will ultimately prevail, bringing about a glorious revival of faith across the globe. The preacher concludes with a call to trust in God's power to fulfill His promises and spread His truth to all nations.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I would not - that ye should be ignorant of this mystery - Mystery, μυστηριον, signifies any thing that is hidden or covered, or not fully made manifest. The Greek word seems to have been borrowed from the Hebrew מסתר mistar, from the root סתר sathar, to hide, conceal, etc.; though some derive it from μυεισθαι, to be initiated into sacred rites, from μυειν, to shut up. In the New Testament it signifies, generally, any thing or doctrine that has not, in former times, been fully known to men: or, something that has not been heard of, or which is so deep, profound, and difficult of comprehension, that it cannot be apprehended without special direction and instruction: here it signifies the doctrine of the future restoration of the Jews, not fully known in itself, and not at all known as to the time in which it will take place. In Rom 16:25 it means the Christian religion, not known till the advent of Christ. The apostle wished the Romans not to be ignorant of this mystery, viz. that such a thing was intended; and, in order to give them as much instruction as possible on this subject, he gives them some characteristic or sign of the times when it was to take place. Lest ye should be wise in your own conceits - It seems from this, and from other expressions in this epistle, that the converted Gentiles had not behaved toward the Jews with that decorum and propriety which the relation they bore to them required. In this chapter the apostle strongly guards them against giving way to such a disposition. Blindness in part is happened to Israel - Partial blindness, or blindness to a part of them; for they were not all unbelievers: several thousands of them had been converted to the Christian faith; though the body of the nation, and especially its rulers, civil and spiritual, continued opposed to Christ and his doctrine. Until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in - And this blindness will continue till the Church of the Gentiles be fully completed - till the Gospel be preached through all the nations of the earth, and multitudes of heathens every where embrace the faith. The words πληρωμα των εθνων may be borrowed from the מלא הגוים melo haggoyim, a multitude of nations, which the Septuagint translate by πληθος εθνων. By the πληρωμα, or fullness, a great multitude may be intended, which should be so dilated on every hand as to fill various regions. In this sense the words were understood by Solomon ben Melec, ארצות הגוים שימלאו מהם. The nations of the Gentiles shall be filled with them: the apostle, therefore, seems to give this sense of the mystery - that the Jews will continue in a state of blindness till such time as a multitude of nations, or Gentiles, shall be converted to the Christian faith; and the Jews, hearing of this, shall be excited, by a spirit of emulation, to examine and acknowledge the validity of the proofs of Christianity, and embrace the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ. We should not restrict the meaning of these words too much, by imagining, 1. That the fullness must necessarily mean all the nations of the universe, and all the individuals of those nations: probably, no more than a general spread of Christianity over many nations which are now under the influence of Pagan or Mohammedan superstition may be what is intended. 2. We must not suppose that the coming in here mentioned necessarily means, what most religious persons understand by conversion, a thorough change of the whole heart and the whole life: the acknowledgment of the Divine mission of our Lord, and a cordial embracing of the Christian religion, will sufficiently fulfill the apostle's words. If we wait for the conversion of the Jews till such a time as every Gentile and Mohammedan soul shall be, in this especial sense, converted to God, then - we shall wait for ever.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For I would not . . . that ye should be ignorant of this mystery--The word "mystery," so often used by our apostle, does not mean (as with us) something incomprehensible, but "something before kept secret, either wholly or for the most part, and now only fully disclosed" (compare Rom 16:25; Co1 2:7-10; Eph 1:9-10; Eph 3:3-6, Eph 3:9-10). lest ye should be wise in your own conceits--as if ye alone were in all time coming to be the family of God. that blindness--"hardness" in part is happened to--"hath come upon" Israel--that is, hath come partially, or upon a portion of Israel. until the fulness of the Gentiles be--"have" come in--that is, not the general conversion of the world to Christ, as many take it; for this would seem to contradict the latter part of this chapter, and throw the national recovery of Israel too far into the future: besides, in Rom 11:15, the apostle seems to speak of the receiving of Israel, not as following, but as contributing largely to bring about the general conversion of the world--but, "until the Gentiles have had their full time of the visible Church all to themselves while the Jews are out, which the Jews had till the Gentiles were brought in." (See Luk 21:24).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I would not, brethren,.... The apostle in order to raise the attention of the Gentiles to what he was about to deliver to them, not only styles them "brethren", expressing his affection for them, and their relation to him and other believing Jews, and to one another, being all one in Christ Jesus, partakers of the same grace, and heirs of the same glory; but also tells them, that what he had to acquaint them with was a "mystery", a thing secret and hidden, which had not been heard of and known, at least not so fully and clearly as he was about to reveal it; and because of his great respect for them, he was unwilling, as he says, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery; he was desirous that they should abound and improve in all spiritual knowledge and judgment, and, among the rest, be better informed of this particular article, the call of the Jews: and his view in apprizing them of it is expressed in the following clause, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits: lest they should imagine that they were the only wise and knowing persons, and be elated in their minds with their knowledge and understanding, and look with contempt upon the poor, blind, ignorant Jews, as if they were always to remain in such a state of darkness and infidelity. The thing he had to inform them of is, that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in; by Israel is meant the Jews, the descendants of Jacob, whose name was Israel. Philo the Jew observes (b), that this name signifies , "the vision of God"; indeed, Jacob had it given him when he wrestled with the angel, and saw God face to face, though it does not seem to be for that reason; however, blindness had now befallen the Jews, who had been favoured with a divine revelation, with the knowledge of God, his will and worship; and none were more blind than those who were called the servants and messengers of the Lord of hosts, as the Scribes and Pharisees, the priests and princes of the Jewish world. This "blindness" designs their unbelief, the hardness of their hearts, and darkness of their understandings with respect to God himself, whom they knew not in Christ; not as the Father of Christ; nor even the perfections of his nature, particularly his righteousness; which was the reason of their setting up their own righteousness, and of their non-submission to the righteousness of Christ: they were blind as to the Messiah; they knew him not, when he came; they saw no beauty and comeliness in him; could not discern the characters of him in Jesus, though they were so manifest; and rejected him notwithstanding the clear evidence of his ministry and miracles. They were in the dark about the sense of the prophecies of the Old Testament; a vail was upon their hearts when they read them, so that they understood them not, and could not see their accomplishment in Christ; they were even ignorant of the law, the spiritual nature, true use, and right end and scope of it; and it is no wonder that the Gospel should be hidden from them. This blindness "happened" to them not by chance, but befell them by the decree, and according to the will of God, who hardens whom he pleases; and according to various predictions in the Old Testament, cited in Mat 13:14; and in righteous judgment, for since they liked not to retain God and his Christ in their knowledge, it was but just in God to give them up to reprobate minds, to judicial blindness, and hardness of heart: but then this blindness only happened to them "in part"; not that it was only in some measure or some degree, for it was total, they were darkness itself, and had no spiritual and evangelic light at all on whom it fell; but that this blindness was not general with respect to persons, there were some few, a seed, a remnant, that were delivered from it, though the far greater part of the nation were involved in it, and continue in it to this day; and will do, "until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in": that is, till the whole number of God's elect among them, be called and brought into the Gospel church state, which in the latter day will be very great; when the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea; when the kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord and his Christ; and the abundance of the sea shall be converted, and the forces of the Gentiles shall come to the church, and multitudes of them shall flock thither, as doves to their windows: and since the blindness of the Jews is not yet removed, it seems plain that the full number of God's chosen ones among the Gentiles is not yet completed in regeneration; for as soon as ever they are all called and brought in, the vail will be taken away from the Jews, and they will be turned unto the Lord. (b) De Temulentia, p. 251. & De Sacrificiis Abel & Cain, p. 151.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:25 Paul usually uses the word mystery to refer to an event of the last days that has already been determined by God. Such a mystery already exists in heaven and is revealed to God’s people in the Christian era (see 16:25; 1 Cor 2:1, 7; 4:1; 15:51; Eph 1:9; 3:3, 4, 9; 6:19; Col 1:26, 27; 2:2; 4:3; 1 Tim 3:9, 16). Here, the mystery is the relationship of Jews and Gentiles in the plan of salvation, which is at the heart of this entire passage (Rom 11:11-32).