Romans 10:20

"But I ask, didn’t Israel know? First Moses says, “I will provoke you to jealousy with that which is no nation. I will make you angry with a nation void of understanding.”"

Key Reflection

Romans 10:20 highlights the paradoxical nature of divine revelation and Israel's response to it. Paul quotes Moses from Deuteronomy, saying that God intended to provoke Israel to jealousy by involving a non-people (a Gentile nation) in His covenant plans. Despite this clear intention, Israel did not fully grasp or act upon the implications, leading to both their spiritual hardness and the opening for the Gentiles to receive salvation. This verse underscores how divine grace can extend beyond traditional boundaries, challenging even those who have been chosen.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 20. But Esaias, Isa 65:1,2. Is very bold. Expresses the doctrine openly, boldly, without any reserve. The word (apotolma) means, to dare, to be venturesome, to be bold. It means here, that however unpopular the doctrine might be, or however dangerous it was to avow that the Jews were extremely wicked, and that God for their wickedness would cast them off, yet that Isaiah had long since done it. This was the point which Paul was establishing; and against this the objection was urged, and all the Jewish prejudices excited. This is the reason why he so much insists on it, and is so anxious to defend every part by the writings of acknowledged authority among the Jews--the Old Testament.

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