“I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh.” (v.3)
What a remarkable statement! Far from thinking about himself, Paul affirmed that he would willingly exchange his eternity for theirs. Much like Moses who was willing to have his name blotted out of God's Book of life for his kinsmen (Exodus 32:32). What love.
As we continue to read the text, it is also pretty obvious from Paul's anguish over his unbelieving fellow Jews that he didn't think God was finished with the children of Israel. There is no argument that God chose Israel to be His representative people on earth (vv.4-5), but not all will enter into His kingdom because of nationality (vv.6-8). Only those who would receive and believe God's promise - which today, through God’s grace, includes you and me (v.25).
Just as Paul had a great burden and desire for his fellow Jews to be saved, I'm sure each and every one of us have those in our family we "lament" for as well. The blinders are on so many today and just as the Psalmist urged us to "pray for the peace of Jerusalem" the peace that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also pray for each others loved ones. Yes our hearts are heavy, and we often lament, breakdown, cry out to God for His mercy and love to overwhelm our prodigals. But be encouraged my brothers, He hears us and all things are working together according to His will.
The Truth: “The gospel is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.” (Romans 1:16)
