Morning Message: Be Ye Transformed

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "Be Ye Transformed"

Written by:  Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Romans 12 – The Apostle Paul has seen both sides of mankind, and he learned more about God and His desires for mankind than even he thought possible. He did not learn these things at the feet of his teachers in the ways of Judaism. He learned them during his wilderness experience with the Holy Spirit. The author of the Scriptures brings a greater depth of understanding.

Just as Moses had his 40 year experience in the wilderness and learned of God’s ways, Paul had his own wilderness experience, learning from the Spirit of God, which is the Spirit of Christ, i.e. the Holy Spirit. Trial and tribulations will find all of us sooner or later, and we will all have a wilderness experience as the Holy Spirit draws us to Jesus and we all cry out to Him.

How often have we read in the Psalms that King David found himself in a trial and he cried out to the Lord, and God heard his cry, and saved him. This was especially true when David found himself being chased by King Saul and 3,000 of Saul’s Army. David fled to the Philistines to hide; he fled to the witches of Endor for insight and wisdom, And in 1 Samuel 22, he found rest in a cave, only to discover that King Saul took shelter in that same cave overnight. David’s burdens were great, fearing for his life, and his temptations grew greater as his men thought that Saul had been delivered into their hands by God. But David showed mercy and respect to Saul, realizing how much mercy God had shown to David himself, even through the ordeal with Goliath.

Finding Saul and his soldiers in the cave with him and his men, David showed mercy, believing that Saul was God’s anointed King. In the end, it was an Amalakite that slew Saul and his son, Jonathan, allowing David to take the Throne of all Israel. God spared David the task of removing Saul from the throne, more mercy on David again!
Love begets love, mercy begets more mercy. Hatred begets more hatred. Anger begets more anger. “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve: …as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15

From I Timothy 6:6 - 

“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Bobservations' Column: Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 12:1-21 - "Be Ye Transformed"

Summary/Additional Commentary and Definitions:

After teaching the great doctrine regarding the gospel of God’s righteousness that is ours through faith in Christ in Romans chapters 1—11, Paul begins to exhort us to godly living. The key to a productive and satisfying Christian life is not in getting more but in giving all. Lord, take all of me!

In John 4:23, Jesus said, "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." God gave Himself for us in order that we might give ourselves to Him. 

So, what does a transformed life look like?  How are we to live in light of the saving power of the gospel?

As we begin Romans chapter 12, the exhortation in verses 1-2 really serves as a summary statement of all that follows. A living sacrifice to God is one who does not conform, but is transformed. We are not to be conformed to this world. Paul is using the word "world" here to refer to the spirit of the age. In other words, "world" refers to the popular worldview that rejects God and His revelation. As unbelievers, we are naturally conformed to the world (Ephesians 2:1–3). But as believers, we are no longer conformed to this world because we no longer belong to the spirit of this age. We have been translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of God’s beloved Son (Colossians 1:13). Therefore, rather than continuing to conform to this world, we are to be transformed by having our minds renewed. The only way to replace the error of the world’s way of thinking is to replace it with God’s truth, and the only infallible source of God’s truth is His revealed Word, the Bible. There are no shortcuts.

This chapter focuses on the implications of the gospel for everyday behavior, emphasizing the transformation of believers, their roles within the church, and their conduct in the broader society. Paul provides practical guidance on how to live out the Christian faith through love, humility, and service.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

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Key Words and Definitions with Reference: 

Beseech (12:1) - In the Greek, parakaleō comes from the root which means "to call alongside to help" i.e. invite, invoke.  It later came to connote exhorting, encouraging, or counseling: —beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray. It is often translated as "Helper," in reference to the Holy Spirit.  (See John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7).  

Therefore (12:1) - Used in reference to the doxology at the end of chapter 11.  Since all things are for the glory of God, we respond likewise.  We offer ourselves as living sacrifices for His purposes and glory. 

Mercies of God (12:1) - Paul expounded on the mercies of God which include God's love (1:7; cf. 5:5; 8:35, 39), His grace (1:6,7; 3:24; 5:2, 20, 21; 6:15), His righteousness (1:17; 3:21,22; 4:5,6,22-24; 5:17, 19), and also the gift of faith (1:5, 17; 3:22, 26; 4:5, 13; 5:1; 10:7; 12:3). 

Present Your Bodies a Living Sacrifice (12:1) - Paul’s admonition to the believers in Rome was to sacrifice themselves to God, not as a sacrifice on the altar, as the Mosaic Law required the sacrifice of animals, but as a living sacrifice. Under the Old Covenant, God accepted the sacrifices of animals. But these were just a foreshadowing of the sacrifice of the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. Because of His ultimate, once-for-all-time sacrifice on the cross, the Old Testament sacrifices became obsolete and are no longer of any effect (Hebrews 9:11-12). For those who are in Christ by virtue of saving faith, the only acceptable worship is to offer ourselves completely to the Lord. Under God’s control, the believer’s yet-unredeemed body can and must be yielded to Him as an instrument of righteousness (Romans 6:12-13; 8:11-13). In view of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus for us, this is only “reasonable.”

Reasonable Service (12:1) - "Reasonable" comes from the Greek word logikós, meaning rational or logical. God has blessed believers with spiritual riches that only come by His wonderful mercy.  It is reasonable therefore that those who love Him, who have put their trust in Him should offer their best, their highest form of service.  Priests in the Old Testament were chosen by God for a purpose, to serve God with their lives through the offering of sacrifices.  In the New Testament believers are chosen by God for a purpose, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, not blood sacrifices.  Jesus has made one sacrifice for sin for all time, none other needs to be made.  1 Peter 2:5–9: “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. . . . But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."

Do Not Be Conformed (12:2) - This is a firm warning not to conform or fashion one's self (both mind and character) to another's pattern. This refers to the way we assume an outward expression that does not reflect who we are in Christ.  

This World (12:2) - or this "age."  We are not to conform to the world's standards, it's system of beliefs, values, or the spirit of the age which is a world that is dominated by Satan.

Transformed (12:2) - Comes from the Greek word metamorphóō,  which means to transform (literally or figuratively, "metamorphose"): —change, transfigure, transform. Matthew uses the same word to describe the Transfiguration of Jesus (17:2). Outwardly Christ's glory was seen at the Transfiguration, so ought Christians outwardly manifest the new nature we have been given, not just once, but daily. 

Renewing of Your Mind (12:2) - Our renewed minds were once blinded by the god of this world, Satan (2 Corinthians 4:4).  In Christ they can be and should be in harmony with and guided His Spirit.  We are to have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). 

Good . . . Acceptable . . . Perfect (12:2) - God's will for the believer is good, acceptable and perfect. These words describe a life that is Holy (set apart) morally, spiritually spotless from the stain of sin. As we offer our whole selves to Him, He transforms and redirects our lives. As believers renounce the ways of the world and submit to Christ, their minds, hearts, and wills are renewed by God’s Word and Spirit. This is how we can test and approve God’s will.

Grace (12:3) - The undeserved favor of God which called Paul to be an apostle giving him spiritual authority (Romans 1:1-5) and producing a sincere humility (1 timothy 1:12-14).

Soberly (12:3) - Comes from the Greek word sōphronéō, which means to be of sound mind, be in right mind.  This is the exercise of sound judgment.  

Measure of Faith (12:3) - The faith God has given to each of us. Not only is faith a gift from God but recognizing that prevents pride and encourages “sober judgment.” We should recognize the limits of the gifts God has given us, and also acknowledge the gifts that others possess, and that each believer is divinely placed into Christ as a vital and functioning part of His spiritual Body (Romans 12:4–8; cf. 1 Corinthians 12:27). No member is superior to any other.

Many Members . . . One Body (12:40) - Just as in the natural body, God has given the body of Christ a unified diversity.

In Christ (12:5) - Every true believer is unified with Christ. 

According to the Grace . . . Given (12:6) The gifts are given, they are undeserved and unmerited.  The gift, the way in which it is used, and the results are chosen by the Spirit.

Prophecy (12:6) - The Greek word translated “prophesying” or “prophecy” means to “speak forth” or declare the divine will, to interpret the purposes of God, or to make known in any way the truth of God which is designed to influence people. A pastor/preacher who declares the Bible can be considered a “prophesier” in that he is speaking forth the counsel of God. With the completion of the New Testament canon, prophesying changed from declaring new revelation to declaring the completed revelation God has already given. Jude 3 speaks of “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (emphasis added). In other words, the faith to which we hold has been settled forever, and it does not need the addition or refinement that comes from extra-biblical revelations. Christians are to be very wary of those who claim to have a “new” message from God.  No utterance of man should be considered equal to or above the written Word. We must hold to the Word that God has already given and commit ourselves to sola scriptura—or Scripture alone.

In Proportion to our Faith (12:6) - The Greek word, analogia, translated "proportion" is essentially a mathematical term.  One with a prophetic gift was able to use such a gift effectively in direct proportion to the strength of faith, or the faith, which is the full revealed message or body of Christian faith (Jude 3; 2 Timothy 4:2).

Ministry (12:7) - In the Greek diakonia from which we get our word "deacon" and "deaconess" referring to those who serve and is similar to the gift of helps. It includes every kind of practical help (Acts 20:35; 1 Corinthians 12:28). 

Teaching (12:7) - The only gifts included in all three listings are the gifts of prophecy and teaching.  This is the ability to interpret, clarify, and explain God's truth clearly (cf. Acts 18:24, 25; 2 Timothy 2:2).  Pastors MUST have the gift of teaching (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9; cf. 1 Timothy 4:16), but many mature, qualified laymen also have this gift.  This differs from preaching (prophecy), not in content, but the unique skill for public proclamation. 

Exhortation (12:8) - From the Greek word parakaléō, meaning to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation): —beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray.  This gift enables a believer to effectively call others to obey and follow God's truth.  It can be used to admonish and correct sin, or encourage, comfort and strengthen struggling believers. 

Gives (12:8) - Giving of oneself or resources to meet the needs of others. 

Simplicity (12:8) - From the Greek word hap-lot'-ace, which means singlemindedness, i.e. openhearted generosity, sincerity not looking for thanks and recognition, but does so for the Glory of God. 

Shows Mercy (12:8) - The believer with this gift actively shows sympathy and sensitivity to those who are suffering.  They are willing and able to help lessen someone's suffering with the resources they have. 

Cheerfulness (12:8) - is in connection with showing mercy.  It is an attitude of the heart that is encouraging not a discouraging commiseration with those suffering.  

Dissimulation (12:9) - or hypocrisy.  Christian love is to be real, pure and sincere, without selfish motive or agenda.

Kindly Affectionate . . .  brotherly Love (12:10) - We are the family of God.  We are to be devoted to God and to one another.

Preferring One Another (12:10) - If we want to love others as Christ does, we will follow His example of humility, thinking of others before ourselves. 

Fervent In Spirit (12:11) - When we serve one another we cannot be lazy, we are to be diligent and enthusiastic. The Spirit of God is alive in us, not dead, not lazy but zealous.  Paul wants believers to use all their spiritual energy, excitement, and devotion in ministering to others as they serve the Lord.

Rejoicing In Hope (12:12) - Of Christ's return and our ultimate redemption.

Patient in Tribulation (12:12) The Greek text, the verb for “be patient” means “to be persistent, refuse to stop, persevere.” Tribulation is an oppressive, distressing state of physical, mental, social, or economic adversity or affliction.

Continuing Steadfastly in Prayer (12:12) - This is the constancy of prayer. When we pray without ceasing, we are acknowledging that our life belongs to the one who gave His own life to preserve ours and turning over our will and our desires to Him (Matthew 26:36–46; Romans 8:26–30; 1 Peter 5:6–7; 1 John 5:14–15). We are fully engaging in the privilege of relationship with the one who knows us completely, loves us with perfect love, and transforms us into His image. We are acknowledging spiritual realities and living our lives intentionally in God's presence, longing for the day we will be complete in Him (1 Corinthians 13:8–13; Hebrews 10:19–23).

Distributing (12:13) - From the Greek work that means commonality, partnership, or mutual sharing. It is often translated "fellowship," and "communion" (Acts 2:42, 44).

Given to Hospitality (12:13) - In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus discusses the hospitable behavior of those who will inherit the kingdom: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me” (Matthew 25:34-36). In these days we often don’t think much about entertaining strangers, but hospitality is still an important part of Christian ministry (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9). By serving others we serve Christ (Matthew 25:40) and we promote the spread of God’s truth (3 John 5-8).

Bless Those Who Persecute You (12:14) - The concept of blessing those who persecute you goes beyond mere words; it involves praying for their well-being, seeking to understand their perspective, and responding with kindness and grace. When we are persecuted, we respond in love and forgiveness.

Rejoice . . . Weep (12:15) - We are to be genuinely happy in the blessings of others, and equally sensitive or compassionate to the hardships of others.

Same Mind One Toward Another (12:16) - Be impartial (James 2:1-4, 9; cf. Acts 10:34; 1 Timoth 5:21; 1 Peter 1:17).

Mind Not High Things (12:16) - Haughtiness with self-seeking pride

Recompense No One Evil For Evil (12:17) - Addressing the idea of revenge.  Meting out retribution for an evil act is simply not our responsibility. It is the wrath of God that will enact judgment on evil. God will give vengeance and ultimately judge the works of mankind (Romans 12:19; Revelation 20:11–15; Hebrews 10:30). It is our role is to “do what is right” (Romans 12:17) and “overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).

Heap Coals of Fire on His Head (12:20) - This refers to an ancient Egyptian custom in which a person who wanted to show public contrition carried a pan of burning coals on his head.  The coals represented the burning pain of his shame and guilt.  When believers lovingly help their enemies, it should bring shame to such people for their hate and animosity (cf. Proverbs 25:21, 22). 

Morning Message: Pruning The Olive Tree - Part 2

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "Pruning the Olive Tree" - Part 2

Written by:  Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Last week’s message from Paul’s letter to the Romans continues, with a warning to Gentiles who might be tempted to gloat that some Jews have been removed from their “Chosen” position with God to make room for new Gentile Believers. No one is being “made room for.” It’s not like God’s heavenly Kingdom has a maximum number that can fit! Can you imagine!? God does not operate on a quota system for heaven! God forbid! The Lord is waiting for the “called” to respond to His grace and mercy. He simply asks us to believe in His only begotten Son.

Those who believe have already responded to His invitation; and those who are the called cannot resist His invitation: He stands at the door and knocks, but He will not force His way in. “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20).

And for those searching?

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:” (Matthew 7:7).

“And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.” (Jeremiah 29:13, 14).

God awaits the people of His “called.” He is not hiding; He is near to every one of us. As near as the door to our hearts.

From Isaiah 55:6 -

“Seek ye the LORD while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near:”

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 11:17-36 - "Pruning The Olive Tree" - Part 2

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Last week we learned that Israel's rejection of the Messiah, filled the Old Testament prophecies concerning the blessing of the Gentiles. These Gentiles who are coming to God through faith in Christ are like the branches of a wild olive tree that have been grafted onto the trunk of a cultivated plant. The old branches, unbelieving Jews, have been broken off for a time to make this possible (Romans 11:11–16).

In this week's study, Paul warns the Gentile Christians not to be arrogant toward unbelieving Jews, however. The time is coming, after the right amount of the Gentiles have believed in Christ, when God will remove the hardening from the unbelieving Jews. They will turn to faith in Christ and, as a people, be grafted back onto God's symbolic olive tree, from which they had previously been pruned. God is not done with Israel (Romans 11:17–24).

In spiritual terms, the Israelites may be enemies of the gospel of faith in Jesus Christ, for now. They were certainly the spiritual enemies of Paul during his lifetime. And yet, the Jewish people of Israel remain deeply loved by God because of the promises He made to the patriarchs. God never breaks His promises. His gifts and His calling on Israel can't be taken back. God will use His grace and mercy toward the Gentile Christians to make Israel jealous. He will use these events to bring her back to Himself as a nation, in the form of those individual Jews who eventually trust in Christ at some future time (Romans 11:25–32).

Paul concludes this section with what has become a beloved poem, like a hymn, about the vast un-knowable-ness and independence of our merciful God (Romans 11:33–36).

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference: 

Boast Not (11:18) - There is no place in the church for spiritual pride, still less for anti-Semitism - we are the spiritual offspring of Abraham (4:11, 16; Galatians 3:29).  The native branches are the Jews. Gentiles have nothing to brag about, nor are they superior to Israel. God redeems Gentiles through His grace, and He also has plans for Israel's restoration through His grace.

Branches (11:18) - The unbelieving Jews who had been broken off.

But The Root Thee (11:18) - It is the Root that supports you. Gentiles are not the source of blessing but have been grafted into the covenant of salvation that God made with Abraham (cf. Galatians 3:6-9, 13, 14).

Unbelief . . . Faith (11:20) - That fact, Paul now writes, should cause a Gentile Christian to be even more humble about their place on that symbolic tree. The only difference between the broken off branches and the newly added branches is faith in Christ. Paul warns the Gentile Christians to hold tight to the branch by continuing in their faith in Christ. Branches were broken off and others grafted in based solely on the issue of faith, not race, ethnicity, social or intellectual background, or external morality.  Salvation is ever and always by faith alone (cf. 1:16, 17; Ephesians 2:8, 9).

Fear (11:20) - God will judge the apostate church (cf. Revelation 2:15, 16; 3:16) just as surely as He judged apostate Israel.

Spared Not (11:21) - Note that God "spared not the angels that sinned" (2 Peter 2:4, He "spared not the old world" before the flood (2 Peter 2:5), and If Israel (the "natural branches") was not spared despite being God's covenant nation, why should Gentiles, strangers to God's covenants (Ephesians 2:11, 12; expect to be spared if they sin against the truth of the gospel?

Behold the Goodness and Severity (11:22) - All of God's attributes work in harmony; there is no conflict between His goodness and love, and His justice and wrath.  Those who accept His gracious offer of salvation experience His goodness (2:4); those who reject it experience His severity (2:5).  Jesus said that only a few are on the road that "leadeth unto life," while many are on the broad "way, that leadeth to destruction" (Matthew 7:13, 14).  All those that "know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ...shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord" (2 Thessalonians 1:8, 9).  

Them Which Fell (11:22) - The unbelieving Jews described in verses 12:21. "Fell" translates a Greek word meaning "to fall so as to be completely ruined."  Those who reject God's offer of salvation bring upon themselves utter spiritual ruin.

Abide Not Still (11:23, 24) - In the future, Israel will repent of unbelief and embrace the Messiah according to Zechariah 12:10.  In the terms of Paul's analogy, God will at that time gladly graft the (believing) Jewish people back into the olive tree of His covenant blessings because it was theirs originally (9:4) - unlike the wild branches, the Gentiles.

Mystery (11:25) - This word doesn't mean something that cannot be known.  It is used in the New Testament as something that was not previously revealed but is known now.  This mystery has two components: (1) Israel has experienced a partial spiritual hardening, and (2) that hardening will last only for a divinely specified period of time.

Wise In Your Own Opinion (11:25) - A warning to the Gentiles against spiritual pride and arrogance.

Blindness In Part (11:25) - Israel has been judicially blinded (11:7-8) but only "in part."  Only some of the branches are broken off (11:17).  The nation's blindness does not extend to every individual Jew.  through all of history God has always preserved a believing remnant.

Fullness of the Gentiles Has Come In (11:25) - "Until" refers to a specific point in time; "fullness" refers to completion; "has come in" translates a Greek verb often used to speak of coming to salvation (cf. Matthew 5:20; Mark 9:43, 45, 47; John 3:5; Acts 14:22).  Israel's spiritual hardening will last until the complete number of Gentiles has come to salvation. God is now visiting the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name (Acts 15:14).  When the full number (known only to God) has been reached, then "the times of the Gentiles" will end (Luke 21:24), and God will begin again to deal with Israel as His elect nation.

All Israel (11:26) - The complete restoration of Israel will climax the  purging trials of the "time of Jacob's trouble (Jeremiah 30:7). Paul refers here to Isaiah 59:20.  This will take place when Christ returns to earth to establish His millennial kingdom centered in Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:8-10; 13:1; 14:9). Believing Jewish people alive at the end of the Tribulation, not the believing remnant of Jews within the church during the church age.  Since the remnant has already embraced the truth of the gospel, it could not be in view here, since it no longer needs the salvation, this verse promises. 

The Deliverer Will Come Out of Zion (11:26) - See Psalms 14:7; 53:6; Isaiah 46:13.  The Lord Jesus Christ's millennial rule will be associated with Mt. Zion (Psalm 110:2).

Covenant (11:27) - For this is my covenant unto them... This is what God has promised to them in covenant, and he will be as good as his word; his covenant will never be broken, it will always remain sure and inviolable; so that there is not only a possibility, and a probability, but even a certainty, of the call and conversion of the Jews; which promise and covenant will have their accomplishment, when I, saith the Lord, shall take away their sins.

Gospel...Enemies (11:28) - The word "enemies" here stands opposed to "beloved;" and as in one respect, to wit, on account of "election," they were still beloved, that is, beloved by God, so in another respect they were his enemies, i. e., opposed to him, or cast off from him. The enemies of God denote all who are not his true friends; Colossians 1:21; Romans 5:10; compare Romans 11:8. The word here is applied to the Jews because they had rejected the Messiah; had become opposed to God; and were therefore rejected by him. Israel's temporary situation during her time of spiritual hardening.

Concerning the Election (11:28) - From the perspective of God's eternal choice, Israel will always be His covenant people. 

The Sake of the Fathers (11:28) - The patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob), recipients of the Abrahamic covenant (Exodus 2:24; Leviticus 26:42; 2 Kings 13:23).

The Gifts...are Without Repentance (11:29) - Not to be revoked or withdrawn, not even to he regretted. God's sovereign election of Israel, like that of individual believers, is unconditional and unchangeable because it is rooted in His immutable nature and expressed in the unilateral, eternal Abrahamic covenant.

Your Mercy (11:30, 31) - God's mercy is the ultimate driving force, and it is through this mercy that both Gentiles and Israelites can receive forgiveness and salvation. God will extend His grace to unbelieving Israel, just as He did to unbelieving Gentiles (cf. Romans 5:8).  Salvation, whether of Jews or Gentiles, flows from Gods mercy (cf. 1 Timothy 1:12-14).

The Wisdom...Knowledge of God (11:33-36) - The majesty, grandeur, and wisdom of God's plan revealed in verses 1-32 caused Paul to burst out in praise.  This doxology is a fitting response not only to God's future plans for Israel but to Paul's entire discussion of justification by faith.

Wisdom and Knowledge (11:33) - All the treasures of both wisdom and knowledge are found in Christ (Colossians 2:3), for He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things (Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:3).  In fat, "the fear of the Lord is the beginning..." (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10) of both knowledge (awareness and comprehension of truth) and wisdom (application or knowing what to do with that knowledge).

Past Finding Out (11:34) - really unsearchable: it is a metaphor from hounds, that have no footstep or scent of the game which they pursue: nor can men trace the Lord or find out the reason of his doings; as none can line out the way of a ship in the sea, or an eagle in the air.  God cannot be accessed through scientific research.  "Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?" (Job 11:7).  His ways and thoughts are higher than ours.  "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8, 9).

Who Hath Known (11:34) - We cannot know the mind of the Lord by human understanding.   He reveals His mind to us through His Spirit. This phrase is taken out of Isaiah 40:13, and was quoted by our apostle before, Romans 11:34: the sense of it, as here used, is: For what natural man, that never was taught and enlightened by the Spirit of God, could ever know the secret counsels of God, and the Divine mysteries of man’s salvation? Nor can any instruct him what to do. But (saith the apostle) we, who have the Spirit of God given to us, dwelling and working in us, and instructing us, we have the mind of Christ; for the Spirit of Christ, which is our teacher, knoweth his mind, and hath revealed it unto us.

Recompensed (11:35) - All of God's gifts are by grace, not recompense.  He needs nothing from us, but gives us all things in Christ (8:32).

All Things (11:36) - Compare Colossians 1:16-20.  Christ created all things, sustains all things, and reconciles all things.  Se also Hebrews 1:2-3; Revelation 1:8, 22:13. 

Morning Message: Pruning The Olive Tree - Part 1

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "Pruning The Olive Tree" - Part 1

Written by:  Pastor Bob Lawrenz

The dogma’s of today’s church are sometimes a bit bizarre. Among them today remains the heresy of “Replacement Theology,” where the Church replaces Israel in prophecy. I say bizarre because of the scriptural evidence against it. It’s therefore quite strange. God’s promise is that all Israel is to be saved, and all Israel in this case means all spiritual Israel as we covered last chapter. Not necessarily the biological descendants of Abraham, but that part of Israel that followed the faith of Abraham. That Israel! 

This is also the heart of Paul, the evangelist to the Gentiles (Romans 10:1) with still a strong attachment to his Jewish brethren. As in the previous chapter 10 of Romans, Paul has mentioned it three times in this Epistle. The error of this dogma is clear as we read of Paul’s hope, and his practice of preaching in the Synagogues of the cities he visited. It is no doubt a clear result of being taught by the Holy Spirit in Arabian Desert for three years (Galatians 1:17, 18). Being led by the Holy Spirit, Paul clung to this hope. And now in Chapter 11, he goes more in-depth about God’s promise to His Chosen People.

This entire premise is based on faith-in-God, and His Word. This is the outworking of grace-through-faith in operation: Being given a promise from God, and waiting on the Lord, for His perfect timing to fulfill the promise. Waiting on the Lord might be difficult for those who get anxious thoughts. 

As we have seen in Hebrews 11, it might not be our generation that sees God’s promises fulfilled. The Patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob didn’t see the fulfillment, and like the Apostles, they kept the faith, knowing and having experienced His faithfulness to His Word.

Therefore, we know having seen God’s work in our own lives, that He will be faithful to all His children; to the Jews first, and also to the Gentiles.

Heaven awaits for those of faith.

From Revelation 7:4 - 

“And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.”

Bobservations Column: Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 11:1-17 - "Pruning The Olive Tree" - Part 1

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Having considered Israel’s past and God’s sovereign purpose in Romans 9, and then Israel’s present situation and God’s continued patience in chapter 10, one crucial question remains: Is God done with Israel? Has he rejected his people for good? This is what Paul begins to address in chapter 11 as he focuses on Israel’s future and God’s glorious design.

Paul begins Romans 11 by setting the record straight—God has not rejected Israel.  The Church has not replaced Israel.  After all, Paul himself is a Jew. Just as in 1 Kings 19:9-18, when God told Elijah that He was keeping a remnant (a small portion of a large group) of 7,000 men, God is keeping a remnant at the present time. The rest of Israel was “hardened” (Romans 11:7), having eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear (Romans 11:8). But what does that have to do with you and me? Everything, as far as our salvation is concerned. 

Beginning in Romans 11:11, Paul explains that through Israel’s unbelief, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Israel’s trespass means riches and reconciliation for the world and Gentiles (Romans 11:11-15). That is great news! Because of Israel’s unbelief, the gospel message of Jesus Christ—who lived a perfect life and died so that sinful man may live—has come to Gentiles. It is God’s kindness, His grace and mercy, not anything that we have done, that allows us to believe (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference: 

Cast Away (11:1) - To thrust away from oneself.  The form of the question in the Greek text expects a negative answer.  Despite Israel's disobedience (9:1-13; 10:14-21), God has not rejected His people (cf. 1 Samuel 12:22; 1 Kings 6:13; Psalms 89:31-37; 94:14; Isaiah 49:15: 54:1-10; Jeremiah 33:19-26).

God Forbid (11:1) - The strongest form of negation in the Greek.

Which He Foreknew (11:2) - Israel's disobedience does not nullify God's predetermined love relationship with her.

A Remnant (11:5) - Although the nation had rejected Jesus, thousands of individual Jews had come to faith in Him (cf. Acts 2:41; 4:4; 6:1).

Election of Grace (11:5) - God did not choose this remnant because of its foreseen faith, good works, spiritual worthiness, or racial descent, but solely because of His grace (cf. Deuteronomy 7:7, 8; Ephesians 2:8, 9; 2 Timothy 1:9).

Grace . . . No More of Works (11:6) - Human effort and God's grace are mutually exclusive ways to salvation (cf. 3:21-31; 4:1-11; 9:11; Galatians 2:16, 21; 3:11, 12, 18; Titus 3:5).

Israel . . . That Which He Seeks (11:7) - In spite of their intense religious zeal, the Jews of Paul's day had failed to obtain God's righteousness (9:31, 32; 10:2, 3). 

The Election (11:7) - Those whom God graciously had chosen in turn sought and found His righteousness.

Were Blinded (11:7) -  By a judicial act of God (cf. Exodus 4:21; 7:3; 9:12; 10:20, 27; 11:10; 14:4,8, 17; Deuteronomy 2:30; John 12:40), in response to their hardened hearts (cf. Exodus 8:15,32; 9:34; 10:1; 2 Chronicles 36:13; Psalm 95:8; Proverbs 28:14; Matthew 19:8; Mark 3:5; Ephesians 4:18; Hebrews 3:8, 15; 4:7).

It Is Written (11:8) - The first line is quoted from Isaiah 29:10 and the last lines are adapted from Deuteronomy 29:4.

Stumbled . . .Fall (11:11) - The form of Paul's question and his strong response confirm that Israel's blindness, hardening, and apostasy are not irreversible.

Their Fall (11:11) - Israel's rejection of Jesus Christ.

Provoke . . . To Jealousy (11:11) - God intends to use His offer of salvation to the despised Gentiles to draw the nation back to Him (vs 25-27).

Salvation . . . Unto The Gentiles (11:11) - Something the Old Testament had long prophesied (cf. Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 49:6; Matthew 8:11, 12; 21:43; 22:1-14; Acts 13:46, 47; 28:25-28).

Riches of the World (11:12) - The rich truths of salvation (Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 49:6; cf. 2 Corinthians 8:9).

The Fall of Them (11:12) - The refusal of the Jews to acknowledge Jesus of Nazareth as their Messiah and to be God's witness nation resulted in the Gentile church being given that privilege.

Their Fullness (11:12) - Their future spiritual renewal (Revelation 7:4, 9; cf. Zechariah 8:23; 12:10; 13:1; 14:9, 11, 16). Israels "fall" and "failure" is temporary (vs. 25-27).

Apostle to the Gentiles (11:13) - See Acts 18:6; 22:21; 26:17, 18; Ephesians 3:8; 1 Timothy 2:7.

My Flesh (11:14) His fellow Israelites.

Life From the Dead (11:15) - Not bodily resurrection, but the passing from spiritual death to spiritual life (John 5:24).  This phrase also describes the future spiritual rebirth of Israel (cf. vs 25-27; Zechariah 12:10; 13:1).

Firstfruit (11:16) - The first portion of the harvest, which was to be given to the Lord (Exodus 23:19; 34:26; Leviticus 2:12; 23:10; Numbers 15:19-21; 18:12, 13; Deuteronomy 18:4).

The lump is also Holy (11:16) - Because the firstfriut offering represented the entire portion, the entire piece of dough could be said to be holy, set apart to God (cf. Exodus 31:15; Leviticus 27:14, 30, 32; Joshua 6:19).

Root (11:16) - The patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Branches (11:16) - The patriarchs' descendants: the nation of Israel.

Branches Be Broken Off (11:17) - See Jeremiah 5:10; 11:16, 17; Matthew 21:43.  Some, but not all, of the branches of Israel were removed; God always preserved a believing remnant (cf. vs 3,4).

Wild Olive Tree ... Grafted In (11:17) - Olives were an important crop in the ancient world.  Although trees often lived for hundreds of years, individual branches eventually stopped producing olives.  When that happened, branches from younger trees were grafted in to restore productivity.  Paul's point is that the old, unproductive branches (Israel were broken off and branches from a wild olive tree (Gentiles were grafted in.

Root and Fatness (11:17) - Once grafted in, Gentiles partake of the richness of God's covenant blessings as the spiritual heirs of Abraham.

The Olive Tree (11:17) - The place of divine blessing; God's covenant of salvation made with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3; 15:1-21; 17:1-27).

Morning Message: The Only Way

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "The Only Way"

Written By:  Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Today, Paul’s expose’ on righteousness, salvation, and justification takes us into the realm in which faith operates. He wrote to the Ephesians in chapter 2:8 that salvation is by God’s unmerited favor (grace) through faith, and that faith is a gift to us from God Himself. Predestination and election are clearly involved, but there is no timetable as to when our minds and hearts are open to receive God’s gifts to us. It could be instantaneous upon hearing the Gospel, or a death-bed change-of-heart.

That indeterminable length of time is only unknown to us. God knows us; He knows how long it will be; He knows under what circumstances we will choose Him. Literally, He knows when we have had enough and have come to the end of our rope. In those desperate times and low points of our lives, it is only Jesus Who has arms long enough to reach us to save us. It was a few weeks ago that I mentioned Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. Frequently, it is we that get ourselves into bad situations. It’s merely misdirected pride in our own abilities that we try things on our own.

But God, knowing when to intervene corrects our thinking. “I can do all things through Christ…” Our abilities are limited specifically to turn our expectations to the Lord Jesus Christ. We cannot possibly know the future, but Jesus knows it already. The trials become insurmountable to us, but the Angel Gabriel told a young virgin in Luke 1:37, “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” A virgin shall bear a child. Believing the words of an Angel of the Lord in a matter of faith. Undeserved favor, then faith, and the Savior was born.

Mary didn’t have to understand the “how” of the workings of God, she just had to receive the promise by faith. Of all the promises of God, we don’t know how God fulfills His Word, as Believers we just know He will be faithful to His own Word.

They say seeing is believing. 

But faith is believing without seeing. (Hebrews 11:1, 2)

Bobservations' Column: Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 10:1-21 - "The Only Way"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

In Romans 10, Paul continues to explain God's sovereign dealings with the nation of Israel.  Paul's heart's desire is for the Israelites to truly know God through Jesus Christ, but the Israelites are rejecting Jesus as their Messiah. Though there were many factors that led the Jewish people to reject Jesus as Messiah, simply put, the reason is they did not believe in Him because they did not want to believe. It is the same reason most people throughout history have rejected Jesus as Messiah. It is not that they could not believe, it is that they would not believe. It is not that people need more evidence, it is that they do not act upon the evidence that they have.

Pride is also a major factor. We also know that the religious leaders at the time of Jesus were corrupt. Their leadership was indicative of the spiritual state of the people. Though the people went through the proper rituals that God had commanded, their hearts were not in them. They were not that interested in the truth of God.  They were not interested in His ways, but only their own. However, God decided before the foundation of the world that those who come to Him must come by faith in all humility. "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up" (James 4:10).

Remember Pharaoh, in the last chapter, Paul used him as an example of the hardness of man's heart. The Israelites were hard of heart and so are so many of us.  Without faith, without humility we cannot receive salvation and the promises of God, including eternal life.  

The Israelites are a zealous bunch.  They had a profound sense of their own history and deep reverence and affection for the Law of Moses, yet their hearts were far from God.  Righteousness cannot be attained by strict adherence to the Law.  The Law was not an instrument to give righteousness (as the entire Old Testament reveals), but rather its purpose was to show us that none of us could never attain it on our own.  That is why Christ came, that is why Christ suffered and died and rose again.  It was Christ's sinlessness that atoned for our sin, and only He can offer forgiveness and eternal life through faith in Him. His perfection, His sacrifice. His work. His righteousness.  His gift of salvation.

God's master plan is beautifully revealed in the gospel message in verses 9 and 10 of this chapter. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

How thankful we should be that God keeps reaching out to them, and that God's heart is so expansive, that we (the Gentile nations) have been included in God's great plan of salvation. We will learn more about that in next week's teaching in Romans 11, where Paul explains that through Israel's unbelief, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Not only that, but that God is not done with Israel.  Talk about a loving God!  More on that next week. This week, it is God's desire that all should come to salvation through His Son, Jesus, for each of us, to believe, to have faith, and put our whole trust in Him.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference: 

Brethren (10:1) - Paul directly addressing Christians in Rome here.  "Brethren" is a term used in Christianity, particularly in the New Testament, to refer to fellow believers, emphasizing the familial bond and unity among Christians. 

Prayer to God for Israel (10:1) - Paul's calling as an apostle to the Gentiles (11:13; Acts 9:15) did not diminish his love and concern for his own, or his continual prayers to God (1 Timothy 2:1-3) for Israel to be saved (cf. 1:16; John 4:22; Acts 1:8), or his own evangelistic efforts toward Jews. 

Zeal For God (10:2) - Zeal without understanding!  Demonstrated by legalistic conformity to the law, and their fierce opposition to Judaism's opponents (Acts 22:3; 26:4, 5; Galatians 1:13 14; Philippians 3:5, 6). Israel's zeal is not driven by a true understanding of who God is or what He wants from them. Paul knows from experience the traditions the Jewish religious leaders have and their exhaustive knowledge of the Scriptures. To know all of that, however, and to not know Christ is to know far too little.

Ignorant of God's Righteousness (10:3) - Not only were they ignorant of God's inherent righteousness revealed in the law and the rest of the Old Testament, but also ignorant of their own unrighteousness, and the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith. 

Their Own Righteousness (10:3) - The Bible’s standard of human righteousness is God’s own perfection in every attribute, every attitude, every behavior, and every word. Thus, God’s laws, as given in the Bible, both describe His own character and constitute the plumb line by which He measures human righteousness.  "Their own righteousness" was based on self-confidence and ritualistic conformity to the Law of Moses, and often to the less demanding standards of their own traditions (Mark 7:1-13). 

Christ is the End of the Law (10:4) - The Greek word translated as “end” means “aim or purpose.” Christ is the aim and purpose of the law not because He abolished it but because He fulfilled it: "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." (Matthew 5:17). By fulfilling the law, Christ guarantees the imputation of His righteousness to everyone who believes.  Apart from Christ, no one is righteous (Romans 3:10). Faith in Christ as Lord and Savior ends the sinner's futile quest for righteousness through his imperfect attempts to save himself.

The Righteousness Which is of the Law (10:5) - A righteous standing before God on the basis of obedience to the law. 

The Man who Does Those Things Shall Live By Them (10:5) - Quoted from Leviticus 18:5. To hope for a righteousness based on obedience to the law requires perfect conformity in every detail (Galatians 3:10; James 2:10; cf. Deuteronomy 27:26) - human effort cannot attain God's righteousness by his own effort...it is impossible. 

Word of Faith (10:8) - The message of faith is the way to God.  God has clearly revealed the way of salvation:  it is by faith.

Confess...The Lord Jesus (10:9) - Confessing Jesus as Lord.  Not a simple acknowledgment that He is God and the Lord of the universe, since even demons acknowledge that to be true (James 2:19).  This is the deep personal conviction, without reservation, that Jesus Lord and Master of that person's own life.  This includes repenting from sin, trusting in Jesus for salvation, and submitting to Him as Lord.  

Believe In Your Heart God Has Raised Him from the Dead (10:9) - Christ's Resurrection was the supreme validation of His ministry (cf. John 2:18-21).  Belief in it is necessary for salvation because it proved that Christ is who He claimed to be and that the Father had accepted His sacrifice in place of sinners (4:24; cf. Acts 13:32, 33; 1 Peter 1:3, 4).  Without the Resurrection, there is no salvation (1 Corinthians 15:14-17).

Confession (10:10) - The person who confesses Jesus as Lord agrees with the Father's declaration that Jesus is Savior and Lord.  There is no such thing as a "secret" Christian.  Verbal confession of Jesus as Lord is a prerequisite to receiving eternal salvation, after receiving His imputed righteousness by faith. 

There is No Distinction (10:12) - Paul has been writing primarily to the Jewish believers in Roman churches, et he again stresses that the gospel applies equally to the Greek converts and, indeed, to all who call on the Lord Jesus.  

Calls on the Name (10:13) - Paul had been stressing God's electing sovereignty in Romans 9, but here we see human responsibility - both are true.  This familiar OT expression (Psalms 79:5, 6; 105:1; 116:4, 5) does not refer to some desperate cry to just any deity, but to the one true God as He has revealed Himself - a revelation which now includes recognition of Jesus as Lord and of the One who raised up Jesus from the dead (v. 9).

Beautiful ... Feet of those Who Preach the Gospel (10:15) - Quoted from Isaiah 52:7, It is the message of God News which those feet carry that is so welcome.

Obeyed The Gospel (10:16) - The Good News is not only a gracious offer but a command to believe and repent (1:4-6; 2:8; 6:17; Acts 6:7; 2 Thessalonians 1:7, 8; Hebrews 5:9). 

Believed Our Report (10:16) - From Isaiah 53:1.  The report Isaiah described was of the substitutionary death of Christ (53:3) - the Good News of the Gospel.

The Word of God (10:17) - The message about Christ - the gospel. 

Those Who Are Not a Nation (10:19) - This refers to the Gentiles, who are not a part of Israel, God's special, chosen nation. 

Disobedient (10:21) - Literally means "to contradict," or "to speak against."  As throughout her history, Israel once again had contradicted the Word of God - this time it was the truth of the gospel (cf. Matthew 21:33-41; Luke 14:21-24). 

Morning Message: Sovereignty

Bobservations' Column
Titled - "Sovereignty"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Lately on the media’s world stage of politics, we are confronted with the idea of sovereign nations. The Ukraine, Israel, China, and even the United States. With it, we have also learned the modern term, “Foreign Influence.” The meaning behind sovereignty comes from the French word, “souveraineté,” as a government or an entity becomes the sole ruling authority over itself and all that it manages in its efforts to control their own future and destiny. “Souveraineté” means “over rule.” It can apply to a nation, or a King, as a Sovereign.

Rome was sovereign over its own Empire, as were Egypt and Greece over their respective Empires. And in the Bible, we are introduced to God’s sovereignty over all that He commands. Ultimately, Rome, Egypt and Greece fell because they thought they were sovereign over their Empires, but they each fell because of their own pride, and their rejection of His authority. God Himself is sovereign over all the Earth, all of it and the heavens too!

Over-all means exactly that; governance over everything. God expresses it in our reading this morning, in Exodus 33:12 and following as Moses seeks God to lead him and God’s people on their journey through the wilderness after leaving Egypt. Admitting his mistakes, Moses acknowledges he can’t do it without God.

God’s grace upon Egypt was due to a special plan that God had in mind for His Chosen People. And when His Chosen were saved from famine and slavery, God’s grace went with them, and Egypt began its downward spiral into being a 3rd World Nation, primarily because they rejected God’s authority over all His realm.

He speaks of it directly as He addresses Moses in verse 19: “…I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will shew mercy.” To over-simplify His words, He says “my sandbox, my will.” This He speaks of for all the Earth. We have read how God created the heavens and the Earth. We have read that He owns the cattle on a thousand hills. (He owns the hills too.)

From Psalm 24:1 -

“The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.”

Bobservations' Column - Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 9:13-33 - "Sovereignty"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

This week, we are continuing our study in Romans chapter 9. If you remember last week, we read about Paul's concern for the Jews, his kinsmen, and his anguish over Israel.  These were God's chosen people who have not recognized their long-awaited Messiah, Jesus Christ.  Paul declares that God's promises have not failed but that God's election is based on His sovereign choice, not works or birthright by giving examples of Isaac and Ishmael, Jacob and Esau. 

This week, Paul reiterates God's divine prerogative in showing mercy or hardening hearts as He wills, as in the case of Pharaoh. We are challenged to grapple with the complex issue of God's sovereignty and human responsibility. Despite the seeming paradox, it reminds us that God's ways are just, and that salvation is accessible to all—Jew and Gentile—through faith. It is a chapter that encourages trust in God's sovereignty and a reliance on faith, not works or heritage.

Responding to potential objections, Paul affirms the justice of God's sovereignty, emphasizing that God, as the Creator, has the right over His creation. He cites the prophets Hosea and Isaiah to underscore the inclusion of Gentiles and the remnant of Israel in God's salvation plan.

Finally, Paul concludes by noting the irony that the Gentiles, who were not pursuing righteousness, attained it by faith, while Israel, who pursued the law of righteousness, did not succeed because they sought it not by faith, but by works.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference: 

Jacob I have Loved, But Esau I Have Hated (9:13) - Quoted from Malachi 1:2, 3. Actual emotional hatred for Esau and his offspring is not the pint here. Malachi, who wrote this declaration more that 1,500 years after their death, was looking back at these two men - and by extension the nations (Israel and Edom) that came from their loins. God chose one for divine blessing and protections, and not the other. The bigger issue for Paul's argument is that God made this decision based on nothing more than the fact that God has the right to decide. Is that fair? Paul will address that in the following verses.

Is There Unrighteousness With God? (9:14) - Paul once again anticipating his readers' objection to Paul's theology. Paul has just described how God chose to whom His covenant promises to Israel would be given—and to whom they would not be given. In the case of Rebekah's twins, God made this decision before they were even born. God's judgment was in no way based on either Jacob's or Esau's actions or birth order or parents. It was entirely a matter of His omniscience and sovereignty.
In the previous verse, Paul quoted the Old Testament prophet Malachi, who recorded God's words saying that He "loved Jacob" and "hated Esau" even before they were born. This was not a reference to the emotion we describe using the English word "hate" today. "Love" in Scripture is usually a reference to how one acts, and "hate" here is meant as a contrast to it. Exaggerated parallels were common in speech of ancient times (Luke 14:26). God simply chose to give extreme blessings to Jacob, and—relatively speaking—none to Esau.
Now Paul puts the question in the mouth of his readers, "Is that injustice on God's part?" By no means! But this naturally leads one to ask how is it just, then? Paul will address that in the following verses.

For He Saith to Moses (9:15) - This is quoted from Exodus 33:19. Since there are none who merit salvation, there are none who are fit (or who can make themselves fit) to be in God's immediate presence.  Therefore, it is entirely by God's mercy that any at all are saved, and He surely has the divine right by creation to show mercy on whomever He wills.

Scripture Saith Unto Pharaoh (9:17) - Quoting from Exodus 9:16. Again quoting the Old Testament to prove that God does sovereignly choose who will serve His purposes and how.  Notice that Paul equates the words "spoken by God" with "Scripture."  This pronouncement of God was written down by Moses (the Greek word for "Scripture" was graphe, meaning a "written document"), which gave the writing the authority of God Himself.  Note Paul's summary in 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Hardeneth (9:18) - It was said several times that God hardened Pharaoh's heart (Exodus 7:3,13; 9:12, 10:29; 11:10; 14:4).  But also, it was noted that Pharaoh often hardened his own heart (Exodus 7:4, 14, 22; 8:15, 19, 32; 9:7, 34). In some mysterious way, our human decisions (for which we alone bear responsibility) also play into God's sovereign will.  Not that God actively created unbelief or some other evil in Pharaoh's heart, but rather, that in His foreknowledge, God's sovereign will is accomplished.

Why? (9:19) - Really the objection is the fairness of God.  Is it "fair" to hold someone responsible for a decision which some other person irresistibly forced them to make? What do we make of this, when it comes to God? We might debate whether God really forced Pharaoh to say no, or whether He just unbalanced Pharaoh's emotions. We might point out—validly—that Pharaoh hardened his own heart repeatedly (Exodus 7:13; 8:15) before God stepped in to make that hardening permanent.  However, our limited reasoning does not matter, what matters is that God is God and He can do as He wishes.  Human terms don't apply to Him. He is all knowing. His thoughts and His ways are not our ways, they are higher and perfect and holy and true (Isaiah 55:8–9), He is in the position of Creator; we are not. 

Who Are You? (9:20) This is a good lesson for all of us when we feel that God has made a mistake, and we begin to ask Him why?  Why did you allow this?  The reality is that we don't have the right to ask Him, "why?"  He answered Job's pleas by reminding him of the fact of creation "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?" (Job 38-40).  The fact of divine election and human responsibility are not fully comprehended by our finite minds, but scripture and human experience demonstrate both to be true.  We must rest in the truth of this, and act in the light of it.

Vessels of Wrath (9:22) - Paul seems to mean by these "vessels" all those who will not receive God's mercy. These are those who will instead be separated from Him forever in hell. These vessels—these people—are objects of God's anger. This is one area where theology and doctrine begin to take different views of Paul's meaning. Is God patiently enduring these persons until the time comes for them to be destroyed? Or, is God patiently enduring to make time for some to repent and be revealed as the "vessels of mercy" described in the following verse? Bible teachers disagree based both on translation and doctrinal beliefs.   In Ephesians 2, Paul refers to himself as having previously been a child of wrath: We "were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ" (Ephesians 2:3–5). Some take that, along with verses such as 2 Peter 3:9, as evidence for the idea that God's "patience" is aimed at mercifully giving some of these unsaved persons more time to repent. Either way, Paul seems to be making two larger points.  First, God is the Maker, Creator, and he has the right to make people to serve His own purposes.  Secondly, God endures with great patience even those who reject and hate him, those "vessels of wrath" who are destined for destruction. Remember, "...God is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."  2 Peter 3:9.

Glory (9:23) - This refers to the greatness of God's character, seen especially in the grace, mercy, compassion, and forgiveness He grants sinners in Christ. 

Vessels of Mercy (9:23) - Those who have been saved because of God's merciful work through Jesus Christ.  

As He said...Said unto them (9:25-26) - Paul quotes Hosea 1:9, 10; 2:23.  Hosea spoke of the ultimate restoration of Israel to God, but Paul's emphasis is that restoration necessarily implies her present alienation from God.  In other words, Israel's unbelief is consistent with the OT revelation.

Esais also cried... (9:27-28) See Isaiah 10:22, 23.  Isaiah prophesied that the southern kingdom of Judah would be conquered and scattered - temporarily rejected by God - because of her unbelief.  A preview if you will, of Israel's rejection of the Messiah and her subsequent destruction and scattering. 

LORD of Sabaoth (9:29) - This OT title for God is translated "Lord of Hosts" and refers to His all-encompassing sovereignty.

Righteousness of Faith (9:30) - Righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith. Paul's entire argument that God will show His mercy to some Jews and not others has been based on what he has written earlier in Romans. God will show His mercy exclusively and only to those who come to Him by faith in Christ. Up to this point in chapter 9, however, Paul has not anchored this argument to Jesus Himself. He begins to do so now.

The Law of Righteousness (9:31) - Righteousness earned by keeping the law. Paul is using a question-and-answer approach to sum up what he has written in this chapter. In fact, he's tying together concepts used throughout the book of Romans. He imagines an incredulous Jewish person asking the question posed in the previous verse and in this one. That person might have asked, "are you saying, Paul, that even though the Gentiles never pursued the righteousness of God by attempting to follow the law of Moses, that those who have faith in Christ have been given God's righteousness, anyway? Are you also saying, Paul, that Israel, who has pursued God's righteousness by attempting to live under the law for generations, has not succeeded in keeping the law and has not been declared righteous by God?"  Paul's answer to both questions is a simple "yes." He has taught throughout this book that being declared righteous before God comes only through faith in Christ. That status cannot be reached by following the law.

Why? (9:32) - The Jewish people did not seek to be made righteous by faith. They wanted God to declare them righteous based on their works, on their ability to keep the law. As Paul has shown throughout Romans, nobody can keep the law (Romans 3:10; 3:23), so nobody can demonstrate their righteousness to God in that way.
In seeking to be justified by their own works, by their own behavior, Paul writes that most Israelites have "stumbled over the stumbling stone." Paul will make clear in the following verse that this stumbling stone is Jesus Christ.

Behold, I Lay in Sion a Stumblingstone and Rock of Offence (9:33) - See Isaiah 8:14; 28:16.  Long before Jesus' coming, the Old Testament prophets had predicted that Israel would reject her Messiah, illustrating again that her unbelief is perfectly consistent with the scriptures.  That "stone" which caused Israel to stumble, the "rock" which offended their self-righteousness, was actually not and it, but a HIM.  He is none other than their Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ.  Israel's rejection of Him resulted in God setting Israel aside and turning to the Gentiles.  This truth is also expounded by Christ in Matthew 21:42 and Peter in 1 Peter 2:8.