Study Desk

But I say, did Israel not know? First Moses says: "I will provoke you to jealousy by those who are not a nation,I will move you to anger by a foolish nation." Deuteronomy 32:21 ">[fn]

But Isaiah is very bold and says: "I was found by those who did not seek Me;I was made manifest to those who did not ask for Me." Isaiah 65:1 ">[fn]

21 But to Israel he says: "All day long I have stretched out My handsTo a disobedient and contrary people." Isaiah 65:2 ">[fn]

But what does the divine response say to him? "I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." 1 Kings 19:18">[fn]

And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. [fn] But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.

What then? Israel has not obtained what it seeks; but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were blinded.

I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.

For if their being cast away is the reconciling of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?

do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.

Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear.

Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, [fn] if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off.

Concerning the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but concerning the election they are beloved for the sake of the fathers.

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.

For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function,

Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," Deuteronomy 32:35">[fn] says the Lord.

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same.

For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.