Romans 11:24, Grafting of Natural Branches

Romans 11:24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?

When Israel repents and comes back to God, the way back is a most blessed journey. Like the prodigal son who came to himself and returned to his father’s house, he received the warmest reception. The father restored to him the honour and privileges of being his son. A gold ring was placed on his finger; a robe was placed upon him and the fatted calf was prepared for a celebration feast.

Israel is privileged by her national spiritual heritage. Before Israel returned to the land on 14 May 1948, the Hebrew Scriptures were sought to revive the use of the Hebrew language. In it is hidden the treasure of Israel’s spiritual heritage. Until today, the Hebrew Scriptures remain in the hands of God’s people in Israel. If they come to the Scriptures, they will find the Christ of the Scriptures. Salvation is not far for God’s chosen people.

The Apostle Paul was trained by Gamaliel, the Jewish scholar, in the Hebrew Scriptures. When he met with Jesus on the road to Damascus, his understanding of the Scriptures was opened! He saw the full connection of the Old Testament. It has its fulfilment in the life of Jesus Christ whom he met. He was gloriously saved.

Truly, for the backslidden Christian to come back to God is not a difficult journey. In fact, connecting back with God will be such a joy and blessing. The Apostle Paul illustrated this truth well by this metaphor of the grafting of the natural branches to the olive tree. Amen.