Romans 9:3-5…“They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises;” vs. 4
Paul was proud of his heritage, and he loved the Jewish people. He would gladly have forfeited his salvation for the sake of his “kindred according to the flesh.” They were the people of the promise, the chosen children of God and they were frittering away their glory because they refused to believe that Jesus was the Christ.
Through the centuries there have been many Christians who have had a passion for the conversion of the Jews. Sadly that passion when thwarted has regularly been channeled into persecution and even genocide. Even Martin Luther was angry because Jews failed to respond to his interpretation of the gospel, pronounced curses on them and promoted violence and destruction in their communities.
Paul could never have imagined that such things would happen to his people. He loved them, and it was because of his great love that his feelings were so deep. It’s important for us to show that love in all our interactions with Jews. They don’t deserve the stereotypes and jokes that are so common among Christians. We have a common heritage, a deep and rich one, and the same family tree. The fact that we belong to the Jesus branch does not disconnect us from our brothers and sisters.
Thought for the Day: What has my relationship with Jews been like?
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