Today's readings are Joel 2.18-32 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=Joel+2.18-32 ) and Romans 11.25-12.13 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=Rom.+11.25-12.13 ).
There is a movement within Christianity which says God has dealt in the past with Israel, making them partakers of a covenant. He is now dealing with the Church, exclusive of Israel. This view says that God will, at some point in the future, turn back to Israel, bringing that national entity to salvation. Followers of this philosophy often point to passages like Joel 2 and Romans 11 to prove their points. But this philosophy does not hold up. It has many failings, some of which will be demonstrated as I lay out the following biblical ideas which tie in to today's reading.
First, notice that God has indeed dealt with Israel, calling them a chosen people, promising them restoration and blessing. Yet the covenant God made with Abraham was related to Abraham's trust in him. The covenant of God is given by God's grace before we do anything. It is received by faith. In these last days, not only Israel, but all people from all nations who believe on Jesus are partakers of the covenant of God. The covenant made with Israel has not changed. It is still received by faith just like it was in bygone years.
Second, notice that Jesus' death in our place is termed in Scripture as an atonement for the sins of the whole world. Jesus is the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. He died not only for our sins, but for those of the whole world. He has opened the doors of salvation to everyone, regardless of national identity, who believes. And this salvation is mediated through the Church, a worldwide and invisible entity, rather than the nation of Israel, a localized and visible people group. The Church includes all those of Israel who believe. God has not shifted his focus to deal with the Church (i.e., Gentiles) as opposed to Israel. He has radically broadened the scope of the people to whom covenant promises are made.
In what way is God going to save and restore national Israel? He will do it to the extent that the individuals who make up national Israel repent and believe on Christ, just like he does for every other nation on earth. As Abraham said to the rich man in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, they have Moses and the prophets. They can believe.
May we realize the riches, the breadth and depth of the salvation our Lord has promised. He is not only the God to those who are near, but the od to those who are far off. As we read in Romans 12.1, then, in view of the mercies of God, let us present our bodies as a living sacrifice to our Lord.
No comments:
Post a Comment