Romans 9-11 (The Kindness and Severity of God)

In this episode, we dive into Romans 9–11, where Paul wrestles with God’s plan for Israel and all people. We talk about how God’s promises never fail, even when it looks confusing, and how His mercy reaches both Jews and Gentiles. Paul reminds us that salvation isn’t about what we do, but about God’s grace, and that in the end, God is weaving a bigger story of redemption than we can fully see.

Romans 9

Summary: God’s has sovereign choice in how He saves
Cultural Note: Isaac/Ishmael, Jacob/Esau – Patriarch stories show God’s choosing isn’t based on works.
Fact: Paul blends deep theology with deep compassion for Israel.
Application: Pray urgently for those far from God.

 Questions:

1. How do you respond to God’s sovereignty in choosing people?
   
   

2. Why is Paul’s grief for Israel important to notice?
   
   

3. How do we hold together God’s sovereignty and human responsibility?
   
   

4. Who are you praying for with the same passion Paul has here?

Romans 10

Summary: Salvation comes by confessing Jesus as Lord and believing; open to all who believe.
Cultural Note: Lord – Also a title for Caesar; calling Jesus “Lord” challenged Roman rule.
Fact: “Beautiful feet” quote is from Isaiah, honoring gospel messengers.
Application: Live so your allegiance to Jesus is obvious, even when it costs.

Questions:

1. Why was “Jesus is Lord” such a radical statement in Paul’s time?
   
   

2. How does confessing faith publicly shape our walk with God?
   
   

3. What’s the connection between hearing the gospel and believing it?
   
   

4. How can you be a “beautiful feet” messenger this week?
   

Romans 11

Summary: Israel’s rejection isn’t final; Gentiles are grafted into Israel’s blessings.
Cultural Note: Olive tree – Symbol of Israel’s covenant relationship with God.
Fact: Grafting imagery was well-known in Mediterranean agriculture.
Application: Practice humility—you’re part of something bigger.

Questions:

1. How does the olive tree image explain God’s plan?
   
   

2. What does it look like to stay humble as part of God’s family?
   
   

3. How does this chapter give hope for those who seem far from God?
   
   

4. Why should Gentile believers care about God’s plan for Israel?