Romans 9:4

• Up to this point in Romans, Paul has called the Jewish people Jews. Here, and throughout most of 9–11, he shifts to the phrase the people of Israel. This change is important. Jew mainly points to national or ethnic identity. Israel emphasizes the special covenant relationship between the people and God.

• the adoption as sons: The Old Testament often calls Israel God’s son or child. This language shows that God chose Israel to belong to him (for example, Exodus 4:22; Jeremiah 3:19; 31:9; Hosea 11:1). Israel’s adoption means that they received God’s blessings and promises. It does not mean that every Israelite was automatically saved.

• covenants: A covenant is a formal and lasting agreement. In the Bible, a covenant is a binding relationship that God establishes with people. God promises to bless, protect, or guide them, and the people are called to trust God and live in obedience to him. God’s covenants show his commitment to remain faithful to his people over time.

  The Old Testament describes several covenants between God and the people of Israel. God made one covenant with Abraham (Genesis 17). He made another covenant with the nation through Moses at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19–24). God also made a covenant with David and his royal family (2 Samuel 7:8–16; 23:5).

n this section, Paul addresses a serious question. Many Jews did not believe in Jesus. If God had promised salvation to Israel, how could Jesus truly fulfill God’s plan when so few Jews believed (9:1–5)? In response, Paul uses the Old Testament to show that God always planned to save only a remnant, that is, a smaller group within Israel (9:6–29). Paul also explains that many Jews did not accept Christ because they refused to trust in him (9:30–10:21).

Paul then makes clear that God has not rejected Israel. Some Jews have already believed in Christ (11:1–10). Many more will trust in Christ in the future (11:12–26).