City Life Starter

I. The Word: Romans 11:33-36

³³ Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!

³⁶ For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

II. Study Questions

1. What is “doxology?”

2. What is difference with the doxology of chapter 11 from chapter 8?

3. What is the meaning of “mystery” according to the Greek translation?

Today we conclude this wonderful chapter with a doxology, where we find the Apostle Paul breakout with praise and worship to conclude God’s plan of salvation for the Jews and Gentiles.  It is rightfully so, when we think of the apostle’s plea and defense for Israel who rejected the Messiah (Chap. 9-11).  He is hopeful and looking forward to the day when “all Israel will be saved” (v. 26).

This doxology is quite different from the earlier in Romans 8 where Paul is praising the inseparable love of God we have in Christ Jesus.  In Romans 11, Paul breaks out in praise of the wisdom of God, especially in God’s sovereignty and plan for salvation.  I believe Paul wrestled with the question of how God is going to restore Israel, descendent of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who did not and could not see the Messiah.

In verse 25, he calls it “mystery” where this word in Greek does not mean unknown, but that it can be revealed through the revelation from God.  Throughout chapters 9-11, Paul has revealed this mystery to us even though it was difficult to comprehend.  What Paul is communicating to us is that God has revealed his plan of salvation through His Word and we can hope for the salvation of Israel.

In conclusion, Paul is telling us that God is in control, it is His plan, and how He brings it to pass is all up to Him.  May we join in with Paul by trusting in God’s sovereign plan and hope for the future salvation.

“For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever.  Amen.” Romans 11:36