Romans 11:14, Salvation of Mine Loved Ones

Romans 11:14 If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

The Apostle Paul has been speaking of his burden for the salvation of his beloved countrymen. His heart goes out to them. Although his mission is to the Gentiles, he understands that God has not cast away Israel. He longs in earnest that his own people may be saved. He hopes that his work among the Gentiles may be a witness of God’s grace to his own people that they, too, may be influenced to receive Jesus Christ.

He understands the hardness of their heart. He was like them before his conversion. He understands the savage nature of the deparved man. He once persecuted Christians. He was there when the deacon Stephen was stoned to death. He witnessed it all. Yet, he experienced the marvelous grace of God that transformed his life. He understood the power of God to save.

He pleads for the audience of his people that they hearken to his plea. The Jews are a proud people because of their spiritual heritage. They have reason to be so for the high privilege God has bestowed upon them. The Apostle Paul likes his countrymen to see God’s blessing upon the Gentiles that it may jolt them to faith in Jesus Christ.

I can see the Apostle Paul singing this hymn written by Rev. Joseph Carlson to them:

If You Want Joy, Real Joy

If you want joy, real joy, wonderful joy,

Let Jesus come into your heart.

If you want joy, real joy, wonderful joy,

Let Jesus come into your heart.

Your sins He’ll wash away,

Your night He’ll turn to day,

He’ll make it over anew.

May God save Israel. Amen.