Romans 11:5-6 (ESV)
So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace. But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.
In Romans 9-11 we have one of the most difficult set of chapters in the entire Bible. These three chapters are Paul’s explanation of the election of the saints and the hardening the hearts of those who are not the saints. So, in three chapters we are confronted with election and predestination. When Moses asked to see God’s glory, this is how God responded:
Exodus 33:17-19 (ESV)
And the LORD said to Moses, “This very thing that you have spoken I will do, for you have found favor in my sight, and I know you by name.” Moses said, “Please show me your glory.” And he said, “I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name ‘The LORD.’ And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy.
Paul quotes this encounter in chapter nine. Isn’t it amazing that the thing that confuses man the most is used by God to reveal the majestic nature of His glory. What we can’t understand is the explanation God gives for seeing His glory. What we can’t comprehend is God’s definition of His glory. The key to this is to understand these two verses in chapter 11. Paul is specifically talking about the Jews coming to God. They can’t because they want to come by works. They want to preform for God. But God’s glory demands we come by faith. God will have mercy on those He will have mercy. We come to Him by faith. If it is by works it can no longer be by grace. That is the key to understanding the gospel, receiving the gospel, proclaiming the gospel and magnifying the glory of God. We don’t come to God because we can measure up to Him in works. We come to God because His glory calls us by grace. It is ALL God and NOTHING of us. That is the glory of God.
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