Romans 11:5

Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

Even so {G3779} then {G3767} at {G1722} this present {G3568} time {G2540} also {G2532} there is {G1096} a remnant {G3005} according {G2596} to the election {G1589} of grace {G5485}.

It’s the same way in the present age: there is a remnant, chosen by grace.

In the same way, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.

Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

Commentary

Romans 11:5 is a pivotal verse in Paul's argument concerning God's continuing plan for Israel. Following his rhetorical question in Romans 11:1, "Hath God cast away his people? God forbid," Paul assures his readers that a faithful remnant of Israel still exists.

Context

This verse directly follows Paul's illustration from the Old Testament concerning the prophet Elijah. In Romans 11:2-4, Paul recounts how Elijah felt alone in his faithfulness to God, but the Lord revealed that He had reserved "seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal." This historical example sets the stage for understanding God's method: even in times of widespread apostasy, God always preserves a group of faithful individuals. Romans 11:5 applies this principle to Paul's contemporary Israel, emphasizing that God's covenant promises are not entirely nullified, as there remains a portion of His people who are true to Him.

Key Themes

  • The Remnant of Israel: The concept of a "remnant" is deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy, appearing in books like Isaiah and Jeremiah. It refers to a small, faithful portion of God's people preserved through judgment or apostasy. Here, it signifies that not all of Israel has rejected Christ; a minority has responded to the Gospel.
  • Election of Grace: This is the crucial qualification for the remnant. Their inclusion is not based on their works, merit, or national identity, but solely on God's sovereign choice and unmerited favor. This principle is further highlighted in Romans 11:6, which states that if it is by grace, "then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace."
  • God's Unwavering Faithfulness: Despite Israel's widespread unbelief, God's faithfulness to His promises remains steadfast. He always preserves a people for Himself, demonstrating His unchanging character and commitment to His divine purposes, as seen in 2 Timothy 2:13.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "election of grace" translates from the Greek eklogē charitos. The word eklogē (election) signifies a divine selection or choice, emphasizing God's sovereign initiative. Charitos (grace) points to unmerited favor. Together, eklogē charitos powerfully communicates that this remnant's standing is not earned but is a pure gift of God's sovereign, loving will. This contrasts sharply with any idea of human effort or religious performance being the basis for salvation.

Practical Application

Romans 11:5 offers profound hope and a call to humility for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • God Always Preserves a People: Even in times of widespread spiritual decline or apostasy, God remains faithful to His covenant and always preserves a true, believing remnant. This provides comfort and assurance that His purposes will prevail.
  • Salvation is By Grace Alone: The verse powerfully reinforces the truth that salvation, whether for Israel or the Gentiles, is never by human merit but always by God's sovereign grace. This should lead to humility and gratitude, recognizing that our standing with God is entirely His doing, a theme echoed in Ephesians 2:8-9.
  • Hope for the Future: Just as God preserved a remnant in Paul's time, He continues to work in the world, drawing people to Himself through His grace, fulfilling His ultimate plan for both Israel and the Church.
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Cross-References

  • Romans 9:27 (11 votes)

    Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:

  • Ephesians 1:5 (7 votes)

    Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,

  • Ephesians 1:6 (7 votes)

    To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

  • Romans 9:11 (7 votes)

    (For [the children] being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)

  • Romans 11:6 (4 votes)

    And if by grace, then [is it] no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if [it be] of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

  • Romans 11:7 (4 votes)

    What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded

  • Romans 11:28 (3 votes)

    As concerning the gospel, [they are] enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, [they are] beloved for the fathers' sakes.