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Romans 11:23

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And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.

And {G1161} they {G1565} also {G2532}, if {G3362} they abide {G1961} not {G3362} still in unbelief {G570}, shall be graffed in {G1461}: for {G1063} God {G2316} is {G2076} able {G1415} to graff {G1461} them {G846} in {G1461} again {G3825}.

Moreover, the others, if they do not persist in their lack of trust, will be grafted in; because God is able to graft them back in.

And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.

And they also, if they continue not in their unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again.

Commentary

Context

Romans 11:23 is part of a larger discussion (Romans 9-11) where the Apostle Paul grapples with the question of Israel's present rejection of Jesus as Messiah and their future. Having established that God's promises have not failed (Romans 9:6), Paul uses the vivid metaphor of an olive tree in Romans 11. In this analogy, the cultivated olive tree represents God's covenant people, and Gentile believers are "wild olive branches" grafted into this tree, while some of the "natural branches" (Israel) were broken off due to unbelief. Verse 23 offers a hopeful counterpoint to this, emphasizing God's continued ability and desire to restore His chosen people.

Key Themes

  • God's Enduring Faithfulness: Despite Israel's current state of unbelief, God has not abandoned His covenant promises to them. His faithfulness is unwavering, demonstrating His sovereign plan for all humanity.
  • The Condition of Belief: The verse clearly states the condition for Israel's re-inclusion: "if they abide not still in unbelief." This highlights that unbelief is the primary barrier to experiencing God's full blessings and restoration, just as belief is the path to salvation for all (Romans 10:9).
  • God's Unlimited Power to Restore: The phrase "for God is able to graff them in again" powerfully asserts God's omnipotence. It underscores that no state of rejection or hardening is beyond His ability to reverse. This prepares the reader for Paul's grand conclusion that "all Israel shall be saved" (Romans 11:26).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "graffed in" uses an older form of "grafted in." The Greek word is egkentrizō (ἐγκεντρίζω), which literally means "to insert a shoot into a tree" or "to graft." This agricultural term vividly illustrates the organic, living connection intended by God. Just as a gardener can re-graft a branch that was broken off, so too can God restore Israel to their rightful place within His covenant people, emphasizing a spiritual and relational re-integration.

Practical Application

Romans 11:23 offers profound lessons for believers today:

  • Hope for the Unbelieving: It reminds us that God's power is limitless, and no one is beyond His ability to bring to faith. This should fuel our prayers and efforts for those who are currently in unbelief, whether individually or collectively.
  • Humility for Believers: As Gentiles grafted into the olive tree, this verse (and chapter) serves as a strong warning against arrogance or boasting. Our place is by grace, and we should not look down on those who are currently outside the covenant, remembering that God is able to restore them.
  • Understanding God's Sovereignty: It deepens our understanding of God's complex and merciful plan, which encompasses both judgment and restoration, showing His unwavering commitment to His promises and His desire for all to come to repentance.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 3:16 (6 votes)

    Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.

  • Zechariah 12:10 (5 votes)

    And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for [his] only [son], and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for [his] firstborn.

  • Matthew 23:39 (0 votes)

    For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed [is] he that cometh in the name of the Lord.