Romans 9:12

Commentary on Romans 9:12 (KJV)

Romans 9:12 is a pivotal verse in Paul's profound discussion on God's sovereign choice and faithfulness, particularly concerning Israel. It directly quotes a prophetic statement from the Old Testament regarding the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob and Esau.

Context

This verse is found within Romans chapter 9, where the Apostle Paul grapples with the question of why Israel, God's chosen people, largely rejected their Messiah, Jesus Christ. To explain God's faithfulness and His divine plan, Paul illustrates that God's promises are not based on human lineage or works, but on His sovereign election and purpose. He uses the example of Jacob and Esau, born of the same parents at the same time, yet God chose one over the other before they had done anything good or bad. The preceding verse, Romans 9:11, explicitly states that this choice was made "that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth."

Key Themes

• Divine Sovereignty: The verse powerfully highlights God's absolute right to choose and act according to His own will, independent of human merit or achievement. His decisions are rooted in His eternal purpose, not in anything foreseen in humanity.
• God's Purpose, Not Works: The phrase "The elder shall serve the younger" was spoken to Rebekah before the twins were born, emphasizing that God's choice was not based on their future actions, good or bad. This pre-birth declaration underscores that salvation and divine favor are by grace through God's calling, not by human works.
• Reversal of Natural Order: In ancient patriarchal societies, the elder son typically held a position of greater honor, inheritance, and authority. God's declaration that "the elder shall serve the younger" was a deliberate reversal of this societal norm, further emphasizing that God's ways often defy human expectations and conventions. This concept is also explored in Genesis 25:23, the original prophecy.

Linguistic Insights

The statement "It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger" is a direct quotation from the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) of Genesis 25:23. The Hebrew word for "serve" (עָבַד - 'avad) in the original context implies a position of subservience or even national dominance, indicating that the descendants of the elder (Esau, Edom) would be subject to the descendants of the younger (Jacob, Israel). Paul uses this historical example to illustrate a theological principle about God's elective purpose.

Practical Application

Romans 9:12 offers profound comfort and humility for believers today.

• Comfort in God's Unchanging Purpose: It reminds us that God's plan is unwavering and does not depend on human performance. His promises are secure because they are founded on His character and sovereign choice.
• Humility in Salvation: This verse underscores that our salvation and standing with God are not earned but are a result of His gracious election. This should lead to profound humility and gratitude, recognizing that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works.
• Trust in God's Ways: God's choices may seem contrary to human logic or fairness, as in the case of the elder serving the younger. This encourages us to trust in God's wisdom and righteousness, knowing that His ways are higher than our ways.