Study Desk

So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.

But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, "Why have you made me like this?"

even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles?

but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law.

Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone,

For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.

But the righteousness based on faith says, "Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?'" (that is, to bring Christ down)

But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim);

But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?"

But I ask, have they not heard? Indeed they have, for "Their voice has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world."

But I ask, did Israel not understand? First Moses says, "I will make you jealous of those who are not a nation; with a foolish nation I will make you angry."

But of Israel he says, "All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people."

But what is God's reply to him? "I have kept for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal."

But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.

What then? Israel failed to obtain what it was seeking. The elect obtained it, but the rest were hardened,

For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead?

But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree,

do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you.

That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear.

Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God's kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.