Romans 11:34

"Oh the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past tracing out!"

Key Reflection

In first-century Rome, where Romans 11 was written, many pagan religions promised knowledge of divine secrets and wisdom. However, Paul asserts that God's depths, riches, wisdom, and knowledge transcend human comprehension. The original audience would have been astounded by this claim, recognizing the limits of their own understanding in light of the incomprehensible nature of the divine. Paul’s statement challenges them to recognize the sovereignty and mystery of God, inviting a sense of awe and humility that goes beyond the philosophical and religious claims of their time.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 34. For who hath known, etc. This verse is a quotation, with a slight change, from Isa 40:13, "Who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord, or being his counsellor hath taught him?" It is designed to express the infinite wisdom and knowledge of God, by affirming that no being could teach him, or counsel him. Earthly monarchs have counsellors of state, whom they may consult in times of perplexity or danger. But God has no such council. He sits alone; nor does he call in any or all of his creatures to advise him. All created beings are not qualified to contribute any thing to enlighten or to direct him. It is also designed to silence all opposition to his plans, and to hush all murmurings.

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