Romans 11:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 11:28
28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.
Chapter Context
Romans 11 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, holiness, grace. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-36: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 11:28
28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.
Analysis
As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes—kata men to euangelion echthroi di hymas (κατὰ μὲν τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἐχθροὶ δι᾽ ὑμᾶς). With regard to the gospel, Israel is currently in enmity (echthroi, ἐχθροὶ)—not God's enemies, but enemies of the gospel, opposing it. This enmity serves a purpose: for your sakes (Gentile inclusion, as argued in vv. 11-12). Yet Paul immediately contrasts: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes (kata de tēn eklogēn agapētoi dia tous pateras, κατὰ δὲ τὴν ἐκλογὴν ἀγαπητοὶ διὰ τοὺς πατέρας).
This is the paradox: Israel is simultaneously enemy (functionally, in unbelief) and beloved (covenantally, in election). The basis of their beloved status is dia tous pateras (διὰ τοὺς πατέρας, "because of the fathers")—God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God's love for the patriarchs extends to their descendants. Israel's election is irrevocable, even when they oppose the gospel. This dual status—enemy yet beloved—is the mystery of God's dealings with Israel.
Historical Context
First-century Israel largely rejected the gospel, yet Paul insists they remain 'beloved' due to election. This tension persists: Jewish opposition to Christianity coexists with God's covenant love. Paul holds both truths without resolving the tension prematurely (v. 33 acknowledges mystery).
Reflection
- How can Israel be simultaneously 'enemies' concerning the gospel and 'beloved' concerning election?
- What does it mean that God's love for Israel is 'for the fathers' sakes'—how do the patriarchs' promises apply today?
- How should this dual status shape Christian attitudes toward Jewish people who reject Jesus?
Word Studies
- Gospel: εὐαγγέλιον (Euangelion) G2098 - Good news, gospel
Cross-References
- Love: Deuteronomy 10:15
- Parallel theme: Romans 9:5, Matthew 21:43