Introduction
If
anyone would question God's concern I would suggest he look at the cross,
and read John 3:16.
Our
God is concerned for all mankind. In this lesson we may note God
rejects none, rescues some, recognizes the jealousy of some, and personally
regards the election to salvation.
1.
The Concern of God . . Rejects None. 11:1-2
What evidence does Paul give that God rejects no one. Paul first
uses himself as an example of God’s concern. Paul lived zealously
in the Jewish Faith, and God expressed concern for him as a member of the
nation of Israel. God’s concern is also noted in His foreknowledge
of Israel, and His persistent dealing with Israel even with their inconsistencies.
Then he speaks of the pleading of Elijah for Israel. We see God’s concern
expressed in each of these events.
2.
The Concern of God . . Rescues Some. 11:5-6
The word
remnant appears only here in the New Testament. Vines Dictionary
helps us understand this word by saying, “. . . a spiritual ‘remnant
. . . compared with the whole nation, past and present, the ‘remnant’ is
small, and as such is an evidence of God's electing grace . . .”
The sixth verse is one of the clearest verses comparing works with
grace. It seems impossible to me that a person of normal intelligence
could not understand this verse. To be saved does not require our
works; it is a matter of grace.
3. The Concern of God . . Recognizes the
Jealousy of Some. 11:11-15, 25-26 a
Could jealousy cause someone to be saved? Does God use jealousy to
bring some to salvation? It would immediately seem that motivation
would fail; but Paul admits using it for the salvation of some. What motivated
you to come to accept the message of Christ? The death of a friend
motivated me, and I am sure many emotions entered into the motivation of
several coming to salvation. Scholars give many different interpretations
to the twenty-fifth and twenty-sixth verses especially the last part of
verse twenty-six. In this small commentary I am satisfied to say
God is not surprised when a Jew or Gentile gets saved. He knows how
many of each race, and nation will accept His offer of salvation.
4. The Concern of God . . Regarding Election.
1:28-32
Election is God’s business. I think He elected to save me, and you;
does that inspire you? Is God fair? NO! If He were fair
we would all go straight to hell. God is merciful, and gracious.
His grace elects to give us what we cannot deserve, and His mercy
elects not to give us what we deserve. This is His election.
I like the idea we are on the nominating committee, and not on the election
committee. Nominate every one you see for election, and leave the
final election to the Lord. We will never have more concern than
the Concern Of God. Amen? Amen!