Branches of an Olive Tree

Monday, February 13, 2012: Romans 11:17 – 18 (ESV)                  Can a Christian have arrogance?

But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you.

Can a Christian have arrogance? In spite of this clear warning in God’s word, it is common for preachers to do so from the pulpit!

Tuesday, February 14, 2012: Romans 11:19 – 20 (ESV)                  What outlook should we have?

Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but stand in awe.

What outlook should we have? Remember the difference: sinners vs. sinners saved by grace.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012: Romans 11:21 – 22 (ESV)                  Can God be kind and severe?

For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.

Can God be kind and severe? Yes. The Jews endured the holocaust. Visit the museum.

Thursday, February 16, 2012: Romans 11:23 – 24 (ESV)                  What is the antonym of unbelief?

And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree.

What is the antonym of unbelief? Faith, in Jesus as Christ (anointed) the Savior and Lord.

Friday, February 17, 2012: Romans 11:25, 28 – 29 (ESV)                  What is the fullness of the Gentiles?

Lest you be wise in your own conceits, I want you to understand this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.

As regards the gospel, they are enemies of God for your sake. But as regards election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.

What is the fullness of the Gentiles? The fullness of the Gentiles is this present era. It will end.