That is exactly my purpose in writing these articles Bonnye: to provide people with information to respond biblically and factually to the terrible misinformation campaign against Israel that is being unleashed, especially upon young people.
Very grateful for your willingness to read these posts.
I didn't realize people were using this passage to support replacement theology. That seems bizarre. There's nothing in it about any sort of substitution or replacement.
The context is very clear: some, but not all, of Abraham's physical seed are heirs to the promises. He's echoing John the Baptist with that comment, as well as a number of Jesus' own statements. What Paul then follows up with is arguably even more controversial depending on which group one is dealing with: the Sovereign Creator and Sustainer of the universe is permitted to make choices if He wishes to do so, and none of us have standing to challenge Him on it.
Yes, it does seem unusual to make use of this passage in support of replacement since, as you well-observed, it has nothing to do with any kind of substitution at all. This is how it is used, or should I say misused:
Since a “true Jew” is not one by physical descent, but by inward spiritual transformation, it is believers in Christ, Jew and Gentile, who are now the “true Israel” and the covenant people of God. Since the church is the true spiritual Israel, ethnic/national Israel no longer holds a distinct covenant role in God’s plan.
Again, as you accurately observed Ken, the context of the passage, and of the wider testimony of Scripture, does not at all support this perspective.
Well done, Stuart ! You always make your points so clear and precise that anyone can understand and learn.
Thank you dear friend. That means alot to me.
So clearly stated. ❤️🙏
Very happy to hear this. Thank you.
Well written. I really enjoy your posts. It gives us points in case we are asked.
That is exactly my purpose in writing these articles Bonnye: to provide people with information to respond biblically and factually to the terrible misinformation campaign against Israel that is being unleashed, especially upon young people.
Very grateful for your willingness to read these posts.
I didn't realize people were using this passage to support replacement theology. That seems bizarre. There's nothing in it about any sort of substitution or replacement.
The context is very clear: some, but not all, of Abraham's physical seed are heirs to the promises. He's echoing John the Baptist with that comment, as well as a number of Jesus' own statements. What Paul then follows up with is arguably even more controversial depending on which group one is dealing with: the Sovereign Creator and Sustainer of the universe is permitted to make choices if He wishes to do so, and none of us have standing to challenge Him on it.
Yes, it does seem unusual to make use of this passage in support of replacement since, as you well-observed, it has nothing to do with any kind of substitution at all. This is how it is used, or should I say misused:
Since a “true Jew” is not one by physical descent, but by inward spiritual transformation, it is believers in Christ, Jew and Gentile, who are now the “true Israel” and the covenant people of God. Since the church is the true spiritual Israel, ethnic/national Israel no longer holds a distinct covenant role in God’s plan.
Again, as you accurately observed Ken, the context of the passage, and of the wider testimony of Scripture, does not at all support this perspective.
Thanks for the enlightenment of scripture, Stuart. You're always right on point!
Thank you Les!
Brother, understanding of the Word and wisdom from the Word.
I am grateful for you.
Grateful for you as well Rod.