ROMANS 9 - GOD'S SOVEREIGN PLAN

 

Romans 9

deals with God’s sovereignty, Israel’s place in God’s plan, and the mystery of divine mercy. It explains that God’s purposes in salvation have always been based on His sovereign choice and His overflowing mercy, not human effort.

 1.   GOD’S HEART v1–3

Though Israel was chosen and blessed with covenants, Scripture, and promises, many had rejected their Messiah. Paul shows a pastor’s heart—love, burden, and intercession for the lost.

 ·       Paul’s passion challenges us to intercede and evangelize.

·       Love moves us to pray for those far from Christ.

 

A true disciple carries a burden for the salvation of others. Love grieves when hearts remain far from Christ. That is why we need to align our vision and our heart to His.

 2. HIS MERCY v10-16

Salvation is not based on human desire or effort but on God’s mercy (Romans 9:16).

·       God chooses by mercy, not merit.

·       Grace eliminates pride; salvation is God’s initiative from start to finish.

God’s sovereignty humbles us. Salvation is not our achievement; it is God’s gracious rescue. Yet His mercy is wide and available to all who call on Him.

 

3.      HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS v19-33

Israel stumbled over the “stone”—Christ—because they pursued righteousness through works, not faith (Romans 9:30–32).

 

·       Those who trust Christ find life.

·       Those who trust themselves stumble.

·       Jesus is the one foundation that never fails.

 

The Gospel is not earned by performance but received through faith. Many stumbles because they try to stand on their own righteousness. The only foundation is Christ.

 

Let us pray:

Lord,

We thank You for the richness of Your Word and the depth of Your mercy. Today we are reminded that You are sovereign, You are gracious, and You are faithful in all Your ways. Lord, help us walk humbly before You, trusting not in our own strength but in Your calling and Your grace. May our lives declare Your mercy to those who are still far from You. Strengthen us to obey You, to honor You, and to trust Your plans even when we do not fully understand them. As we go from this place, fill us with Your Spirit, guide our steps, and shine through us so that others may see Christ in us.

Amen.